The Effectiveness of The Steam Learning Model with Loose Parts Media in Basic Chemistry Courses

Abstract

Students in pursuing higher education must have theoretical knowledge, supported by critical thinking skills and high creativity. Basic chemistry courses as a foundation in a science study program with abstract material need a deep conceptual understanding. The STEAM-based learning model (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) as an innovative learning model is applied to create a hands-on learning experience. This study aims to examine the effectiveness of the STEAM learning model combined with loose parts  media in increasing student creativity in basic Chemistry courses. The method used was Quasi-experiment with a one group pretest-posttest design desaign. Data analysis was carried out with a t-test to find out the difference in pretest and posttest scores. The results of the study showed a significant increase in student creativity scores after the implementation of the learning model. The average creativity score increased from 65.3 in the pretest to 87.4 in the posttest. The t-test  showed a significant value of 0.001 (p < 0.05) which indicated the increase statistically. The conclusion of this study is that the STEAM-based learning model with loose parts  media can increase student creativity, including: active in discussions, enthusiasm in conveying ideas or opinions to the group, creative in completing the assigned assignments, fun learning activities, and students able to understand abstract chemical concepts better.