Project-Based Learning as a Tool to Enhance Students Critical Thinking Skills in Islamic Religious Education

Abstract

This study aims to explore the effectiveness of project-based learning as a tool to improve students' critical thinking skills in Islamic religious education. In the context of increasingly complex education, critical thinking skills are one of the competencies that are very much needed by students to face global challenges. The research method used is a qualitative approach with a case study design, involving students from several high schools in Indonesia. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and document analysis related to the implementation of PBP in Islamic religious education subjects. The results of the study indicate that the implementation of PBP not only increases student engagement in the teaching and learning process, but also significantly improves their critical thinking skills. Students showed better abilities in analyzing, evaluating, and creating arguments based on the Islamic values ​​taught. In addition, this study found that collaboration between students in the projects given encouraged in-depth discussions and creative problem solving. Thus, project-based learning has proven to be an effective strategy in Islamic religious education to equip students with critical thinking skills needed in everyday life. This study suggests that educators should further integrate the PBP method into the Islamic religious education curriculum and conduct training for teachers to improve the quality of its implementation. These findings are expected to contribute to the development of innovative and relevant learning methods in the current educational context