NEED ANALYSIS FOR STEM-BASED PROJECT-BASED LEARNING TEACHING MATERIALS INTEGRATING MANDALING ETHNOSCIENCE
Rida Anastasia Nasution, Ani Sutiani, Ratu Evina Dibyantini

Chemistry Education, Postgraduate Program, Universitas Negeri Medan
Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Negeri Medan

Abstract

The low level of critical thinking skills among students in high school chemistry classes is often attributed to a lack of connection between abstract concepts and real-world phenomena and local wisdom. This study was aimed to analyze the need for the development of chemistry teaching materials based on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics - Project-Based Learning (STEM-PjBL) integrated with Mandailing ethnoscience on the topic of acid-base solutions. This study employed a descriptive qualitative method. Data collection was conducted using a needs assessment questionnaire administered to 40 students and in-depth interviews with 3 chemistry teachers in the North Sumatra region. Data analysis results indicated that students demonstrated high levels of social cooperation (average score 3.30), yet remained weak in independent problem-solving strategies, thus requiring a more challenging learning model such as PjBL. Findings from teacher interviews revealed that lecture-based and conventional experimental methods still dominate, while STEM approaches and PjBL have not been implemented in a structured manner due to limitations in facilities and relevant teaching materials. Additionally, there is a high need for contextual materials that highlight Mandailing local wisdom. In conclusion, the development of integrated STEM-PjBL teaching materials incorporating ethnoscience is highly recommended to facilitate Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) and to increase students^ enthusiasm for learning through scientific exploration of local culture.

Keywords: teaching materials- STEM-PjBL- ethnoscience- critical thinking- acid-base solutions

Topic: STEM Education