Integrative Online Learning: The Effectiveness of Contextual Problem-Solving on Wave and Optics Course

Abstract

Technology plays a crucial role in learning in the pandemic era especially in Indonesia. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of learning with a contextual problem-solving approach on an integrative online platform towards students' problem-solving skills compared to the learning that uses only one platform such as an LMS (Learning Management System). The platform comprises of Learning Management System (LMS) integrated with a virtual laboratory and synchronous meeting platform. This research was conducted using a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design equipped with qualitative responses involving students who took Wave and Optics course in Science Education Programme, Faculty of Mathematics and Sciences, Universitas Negeri Malang. This study reveals the fact that for students who take online course-based problem solving using an optimized integrative online platform, their problem-solving skills are superior to students who study only using synchronous non-online meetings such as using only discussions forums and assignments. Students became more motivated and actively involved in the class. Moreover, students' basic concepts are better built when they engage in investigations using virtual laboratories to solve circumstantial problems. Besides, students who learned to use integrative online learning show better skills in using various argumentation in solving problems and using technology to support their reasoning. Therefore the use of integrative online learning for Wave and Optics course is claimed to effectively improve students' problem-solving skills comprehensively. This study is likely to be developed for various purposes in the learning process.