Pemanfaatan Alat Peraga STEM Lidi untuk Meningkatkan Pemahaman Konsep Matemtis Materi Unsur-Unsur Bangun Datar di Kelas 3

Abstract

This classroom action research aims to improve the understanding of mathematical concepts of 3rd grade elementary school students on the material of plane geometry elements through the use of STEM stick teaching aids. The research was conducted in two cycles at SDN Tanjungrejo 4 Malang City with a total of 24 students as subjects. The method used is the Kemmis and McTaggart spiral model which includes the stages of planning, action, observation, and reflection. STEM stick teaching aids in the form of sticks and plasticine connectors are used to help students build and understand plane geometry concretely. Data collection techniques used observation, written tests, and documentation which were analyzed descriptively qualitatively and quantitatively. The results showed an increase in the average conceptual understanding score, from 61 in the pre-action phase to 66 in Cycle 1, and again to 75 in Cycle 2. Improvements were also seen across all conceptual understanding indicators: restating concepts at an average of 71% in Cycle 1, and 88% in Cycle 2; classifying objects at an average of 68% in Cycle 1 and 74% in Cycle 2; identifying examples and non-examples at an average of 61% in Cycle 1 and 72% in Cycle 2; and presenting concepts in various mathematical representations at an average of 62% in Cycle 1 and 67% in Cycle 2. These results indicate that the STEM stick teaching aids are effective in enhancing students' mathematical conceptual understanding through active, contextual, and enjoyable learning.