EFFECTIVENESS OF THE LAPS-HEURISTIC LEARNING MODEL IN ENHANCING STUDENTS’ CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS ON MOMENTUM AND IMPULSE TOPICS

Abstract

This study investigates the effectiveness of the Logan Avenue Problem Solving (LAPS)-Heuristic learning model in improving students’ critical thinking skills in physics learning, particularly on momentum and impulse topics. The research was conducted at SMA Negeri 7 Pekanbaru using a quasi-experimental design with a nonequivalent post-test only control group design. The participants consisted of two classes of eleventh-grade students, namely the experimental class taught using the LAPS-Heuristic learning model and the control class taught using conventional learning methods. Data collection was carried out through a critical thinking skills test developed based on Ennis’ critical thinking indicators. The obtained data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics through the Independent Sample t-test assisted by SPSS 25. The findings revealed that students taught using the LAPS-Heuristic model achieved a higher average score of critical thinking skills compared to those taught conventionally. The experimental class obtained an average score of 82.08 categorized as “very good,” while the control class achieved 61.21 categorized as “good.” Furthermore, inferential analysis demonstrated a significant difference between both classes (p < 0.05). Therefore, the LAPS-Heuristic learning model effectively enhances students’ critical thinking skills in momentum and impulse learning.