Improving Problem Solving Ability and Skill Competence of Mechanical Engineering Students Through Project-based Learning

Abstract

This study attempts to reveal the effect of the application of Project Based Learning on the problem-solving abilities and skill competencies of SMK students in Metal Joining Techniques. This study was a quasi-experimental study with an intact group comparison design which was carried out in one class which was divided into two groups, namely the experimental group and the control group. Assessment of problem solving abilities is obtained based on students' ability to solve problems encountered in one job. To measure skill competence, it consists of the value of knowledge through a multiple choice test with a weight of 30% and skills through a project test with a weight of 70%. The results obtained indicate that the application of project based learning can improve problem solving abilities and skill competencies than the application of non project based learning of Metal Fabrication Mechanical Engineering students in Metal Joining Engineering abilities. By testing the T-Test, it was found that problem-solving abilities and student competency skills using project-based learning were higher than non-project based learning, namely tcount > ttable for both problem solving abilities (3.446 > 2.101) and skill competencies (3.428 > 2.101). From the results of the study it can be concluded that there are significant differences between the two groups in problem solving abilities and expertise competencies.