Science Lecture Innovation Using PjBLSTEM-ESD to Improve Students' Critical Thinking Skills and Sustainability Consciousness to Strengthen SDGs 4
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15294/jpii.v14i4.34818Keywords:
Project Based Learning, STEM, ESD, Critical Thinking, Fuzzy Delphi MethodsAbstract
The purpose of this research is to develop and implement project-based teaching materials with a STEM-ESD approach. These materials use a water theme in Science courses to strengthen the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4 by improving students' critical thinking skills and sustainability consciousness. This research uses a mixed-methods approach with an Embedded Experiment Model design. The research instrument was developed through a validation process by 10 experts and a trial on 62 science education students to ensure validity and reliability. Implementation was carried out on a sample of 28 students from one university in Indonesia. Data collection used expert validation sheets, student response questionnaires, critical thinking tests, and sustainability consciousness scales. Analysis was carried out using Fuzzy Delphi Methods, the Rasch Model, N-Gain, and t-tests. Validation results showed that the teaching materials were very feasible to use (average validity of 89%). Empirical tests showed significant increases in critical thinking skills (N-gain = 0.39, medium effect size) and sustainability consciousness (N-gain = 0.30, low effect size). These findings confirm that implementing the PjBLSTEM-ESD model effectively contextualizes science concepts with sustainable development issues. It significantly supports the achievement of SDG 4 through meaningful and transformative education.
References
Abdellatif, H. (2023). Test results with and without blueprinting: Psychometric analysis using the Rasch model. EducaciónMédica, 24(3).
Abdul Rahman, F. B., Mustafa, Z., &Kharuddin, A. F. (2021). Employing the Fuzzy Delphi technique to validate the Multiple Intelligence-based Instructional Teaching Module for preschool children. Southeast Asia Early Childhood Journal, 10(1), 62–71.
Abdurrahman, A., Maulina, H., Nurulsari, N., Sukamto, I., Umam, A. N., & Mulyana, K. M. (2023). Impacts of integrating the engineering design process into STEM makerspace on the renewable energy unit to foster students' system thinking skills. Heliyon, 9(4), e15100.
Almulla, M. A. (2020). The Effectiveness of the Project-Based Learning (PBL) Approach as a Way to Engage Students in Learning. SAGE Open, 10(3).
Amanova, A. K., Butabayeva, L. A., Abayeva, G. A., Umirbekova, A. N., Abildina, S. K., &Makhmetova, A. A. (2025). A systematic review of the implementation of STEAM education in schools. Eurasia Journal of Mathematics, Science and Technology Education, 21(1), em2568–em2568.
Andriansyah, M., Yani, I., Budiana, S., Ardianto, D., &Pursitasari, I. D. (2025). Enhancing Student Sustainability Awareness in Science Education: A Systematic Literature Review. Unnes Science Education Journal, 14(2), 368–378.
Atarhim, M. A., Manap, J., Mastor, K. A., Mokhtar, M. K., Yusof, A., &Zabidi, A. F. M. (2023). Application of the Fuzzy Delphi Method to Validate the Content of the Spiritual Intelligence Instrument for Muslim Nurses. Journal of Nursing Measurement, 31(2).
Badin, P., & Hamid, H. (2023). Co-Curricular Activity Risk Management (CoARM) Development and Validation: A Fuzzy-Delphi Method. Journal of Advances in Sports and Physical Education, 6(08), 122–133.
Bafarasat, A. Z., Baker, M., Cheshmehzangi, A., Goodspeed, R., Scott, M., Sharifi, A., Shirazi, M. R., Valler, D., Van Assche, K., Butt, A., Gkartzios, M., Román-López, E., Stangl, P., Vitale Brovarone, E., Pull, E., Van den Broeck, P., Córdoba-Hernández, R., Akbari, P., Cotella, G., … Katsigianni, X. (2025). Planning competencies and transformative pedagogy for sustainable development. Progress in Planning, 200, 100996.
Barbiéri, C., Koffler, S., Leocadio, J. N., Albertini, B., Francoy, T. M., Saraiva, A. M., & Ghilardi-Lopes, N. P. (2023). Evaluation of a Bee-Focused Citizen Science Training Process: Influence of Participants’ Profiles on Learning. Sustainability (Switzerland), 15(18).
Bintang, R. S., &Suprananto. (2024). The Impact of Sample Size, Test Length, and Person-Item Targeting on The Separation Reliability in Rasch Model: A Simulation Study. JurnalPengukuranPsikologi Dan Pendidikan Indonesia, 13(1), 1–13.
Bond, T. (2015). Applying the Rasch Model (Third Edition). Routledge.
Chan, M. N., & Nagatomo, D. (2022). Study of STEM for sustainability in design education: Framework for student learning and outcomes with design for a disaster project. Sustainability (Switzerland), 14(1).
Chistyakov, A. A., Zhdanov, S. P., Avdeeva, E. L., Dyadichenko, E. A., Kunitsyna, M. L., &Yagudina, R. I. (2023). Exploring the characteristics and effectiveness of project-based learning for science and STEAM education. Eurasia Journal of Mathematics, Science and Technology Education, 19(5).
Creswell, J. W., & Plano Clark, V. L. (2018a). Design and Conducting Mixed Methods Research (3rd ed.). SAGE.
Creswell, J. W., & Plano Clark, V. L. (2018b). Designing and Conducting Mixed Methods Research (3rd ed.). SAGE.
de Hierro, A. F. R. L., Sánchez, M., Puente-Fernández, D., Montoya-Juárez, R., &Roldán, C. (2021). A fuzzy Delphi consensus methodology based on a fuzzy ranking. Mathematics, 9(18).
Du Plessis, A. E. (2020). The Lived Experience of Out-of-field STEM Teachers: A Quandary for Strategising Quality Teaching in STEM? Research in Science Education, 50(4), 1465–1499.
Duifhuis, P., van Dijk, G., &Savelsbergh, E. (2025). Pre-service science teachers’ visions on education for sustainable development – tensions, underlying beliefs, and experiences. International Journal of Science Education, 1–22.
Edwards, D. B., Sustarsic, M., Chiba, M., McCormick, M., Goo, M., &Perriton, S. (2020). Achieving and monitoring education for sustainable development and global citizenship: A systematic review of the literature. Sustainability (Switzerland), 12(4).
Espino-Díaz, L., Luque-González, R., Fernández-Caminero, G., & Álvarez-Castillo, J. L. (2025). Exploring the Impact of Project-Based Learning on Sustainable Development Goals Awareness and University Students’ Growth. European Journal of Educational Research, 14(1), 283–296.
Fajrina, S., Lufri, L., &Ahda, Y. (2020). Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) as a learning approach to improve 21st century skills: A review. International Journal of Online and Biomedical Engineering, 16(7), 95–104.
Fatmawati, B., Hunaepi, &Asy’ari, M. (2025). The moderating role of cognitive style on the relationship between critical thinking disposition, metacognitive awareness, and metacognitive strategies. Social Sciences & Humanities Open, 12, 102006.
Fernando, A. R. R., & Tajan, G. P. (2024). Education for sustainable development (ESD) through participatory research (PR): A systematic review. Journal of Cleaner Production, 482, 144237.
Funa, A. A., Roleda, L. S., & Prudente, M. S. (2024). Integrated Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics—Problem-Based Learning—Education for Sustainable Development (I-STEM-PBL-ESD) Framework. In Y. S. Ong, T. T. M. Tan, & Y.-J. Lee (Eds.), A Diversity of Pathways Through Science Education (pp. 151–172). Springer Nature Singapore.
Giangrande, N., White, R. M., East, M., Jackson, R., Clarke, T., Coste, M. S., & Penha-Lopes, G. (2019). A competency framework to assess and activate education for sustainable development: Addressing the UN Sustainable Development Goals 4.7 challenge. Sustainability (Switzerland), 11(10).
Gossen, D. (2025). Cultivating STEM aspirations: relationships, experiences, and beliefs of students in resource-limited communities. International Journal of Science Education, 1–19.
Guo, P., Saab, N., Post, L. S., & Admiraal, W. (2020). A review of project-based learning in higher education: Student outcomes and measures. International Journal of Educational Research, 102.
Habibaturrohmah, Z., Kaniawati, I., Solihat, R., &Nirbayati, W. F. (2023). How to Integrate ESD (Education for Sustainable Development) into STEM Education?: A Systematic Literature Review. Journal of Natural Science and Integration P-ISSN, 6(2), 270–282.
Hacioglu, Y., &Gulhan, F. (2021). The Effects of STEM Education on the 7th Grade Students’ Critical Thinking Skills and STEM Perceptions. Journal of Education in Science, Environment and Health.
Hayat, B., Dwirifqi, M., Putra, K., &Suryadi, B. (2020). Comparing Item Parameter Estimates and Fit Statistics of the Rasch Model From Three Different Traditions. JurnalPenelitian Dan Evaluasi Pendidikan, 24(1), 39–50.
Holma, K., Huhtala, H. M., Kauppi, V. M., Kekki, M. K., &Pulkki, J. (2025). Education for sustainable development: philosophical perspectives. Zeitschrift Fur Erziehungswissenschaft.
Huang, D.-H. (2025). Innovative interactive instruction to enhance learning behaviors. Journal of Innovation & Knowledge, 10(1), 100641.
Jang, S. H. (2022). Case Analysis of Overseas Countries in Project-based Learning for Vocational Education and Workforce Development. International Journal of Emerging Technology and Advanced Engineering, 12(4), 78–85.
Jaya, S., Zaharudin, R., Yaakob, M. N., &Ithnin, M. A. (2022). Application of Fuzzy Delphi Method (FDM) in Development of the Heutagogical and Technological Practices in Next Generation Learning Spaces (NGLS) Framework. ICCCM Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities, 1(2), 39–51.
Kaushal, R., Rose, S. C., Sehrawat, S., Sharma, R., Lata, P., & Gorakhnath, I. (2022). Exploration of the factors of mathematics anxiety and its impact on the achievement of students in mathematics. International Journal of Health Sciences, 1236–1247.
Kioupi, V. (2019). Education for sustainable development: A systemic framework for connecting the SDGs to educational outcomes. Sustainability (Switzerland), 11(21), 1–18.
Martin, F., & Bolliger, D. U. (2022). Developing an online learner satisfaction framework in higher education through a systematic review of research. In International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education (Vol. 19, Issue 1). Springer Science and Business Media Deutschland GmbH.
Mohantyl, A. A. A. M. (2024). Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) and Global Citizenship for India. Journal of Education for Sustainable Development Studies, 1(2), 134–159.
Naderi, N., Monavvarifard, F., & Salehi, L. (2022). Fostering sustainability-oriented knowledge-sharing in an academic environment: A key strategic process to achieving SDGs through the development of students' sustainable entrepreneurship competencies. The International Journal of Management Education, 20(1), 100603.
Nurhidayah, I. J., Wibowo, F. C., & Astra, I. M. (2021). Project-Based Learning (PjBL) learning model in science learning: Literature review. Journal of Physics: Conference Series, 2019(1).
Oyewo, O. A., Ramaila, S., &Mavuru, L. (2022). Harnessing Project-Based Learning to Enhance STEM Students' Critical Thinking Skills Using a Water Treatment Activity. Education Sciences, 12(11).
Pada, A., Chanunan, S., & Rahmat, I. (2025). Fostering Environmental Awareness Through Sustainable Development Goal-Oriented Ethno-Stem Approach In Elementary Education. Jurnal Pendidikan IPA Indonesia, 14(3), 469–479.
Purnamasari, A. Y., Rustaman, N., Purwianingsih, W., & Lestari, W. (2024). Implementation of project-based learning containing ESD to improve students' creative thinking skills. JPPI (JurnalPenelitian Pendidikan Indonesia), 10(4), 110.
Rahmawati, Y., Irwanto, I., Mardiah, A., Taylor, E., Taylor, P. C., Lisdiana, H., &Syaadah, R. S. (2025). Students’ Engagement in STEAM PjBL-Design Thinking for Environmental Literacy. Journal of Education, Culture and Society, 16(1), 555–580.
Rehman, N., Huang, X., Mahmood, A., AlGerafi, M. A. M., & Javed, S. (2024). Project-based learning as a catalyst for 21st-century skills and student engagement in the math classroom. Heliyon, 10(23).
Rogovaya, O., Larchenkova, L., &Gavronskaya, Y. (2019). Critical thinking in STEM (Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). Utopia y Praxis Latinoamericana, 24(Extra6), 32–41.
Sánchez-García, R., & Reyes-de-Cózar, S. (2025). Enhancing Project-Based Learning: A Framework for Optimizing Structural Design and Implementation—A Systematic Review with a Sustainable Focus. Sustainability, 17(11).
Setiawan, H., Kusnadi, K., Surtikanti, H. K., &Riandi, R. (2023). Gender differences and the correlation of environmental knowledge with sustainability awareness after ESD-PjBL implementation. JPBI (Jurnal Pendidikan Biologi Indonesia), 9(3), 371–386.
Setyowati, Y., Kaniawati, I., Sriyati, S., Nurlaelah, E., & Hernani, H. (2022). The development of science teaching materials based on the PjBL-STEM model and ESD approach on environmental pollution materials. Jurnal IPA & Pembelajaran IPA, 6(1), 45-53.
Shockden, E. I., & Onyejekwe, G. (2025). Cognitive engagement and mastery goal orientation: The efficacy of Multidimensional Intervention among students in communities plagued by violence in Nigeria. Forum for Education Studies, 3(3), 2914.
Sihombing, R. A., Muslim, M., Rahman, T., &Winarno, N. (2024). Enhancing Quality Education in Indonesia: A Literature Review of STEM-ESD Landscape Contributions. Journal of Science Learning, 7(3), 213–226.
Solihah, P. A. S., Kaniawati, I., Samsudin, A., &Riandi, R. (2024). Need Analysis of STEM-ESD-Based Development on Teaching Materials and Instrument Test. JurnalPenelitian Pendidikan IPA, 10(3), 1124–1133.
Ocampo, L. (2023). Development and usage of multi-criteria decision-making/analysis methodologies with fuzzy sets for guiding strategic development decisions. England: University of Portsmouth.
Vásquez, C., García‐alonso, I., Seckel, M. J., & Alsina, Á. (2021). Education for sustainable development in primary education textbooks—an educational approach from statistical and probabilistic literacy. Sustainability (Switzerland), 13(6), 0–21.
Vilmala, B. K., Kaniawati, I., Suhandi, A., &Permanasari, A. (2022). ESD integrated STEM education : What are the perceptions of prospective science teacher students ESD Integrated STEM Education : What are the Perceptions of Prospective Science Teacher Students? 060040(December).
Vilmala, B. K., Kaniawati, I., Suhandi, A., Permanasari, A., & Khumalo, M. (2022). A Literature Review of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) in Science Learning: What, Why, and How. Journal of Natural Science and Integration, 5(1), 35.
Vilmala, B. K., Kisworo, B., Rihan, H. G., &Syafriani, S. (2025). PjBL-ESD as an innovation in science learning: Cultivating local wisdom values and students’ critical thinking skills. Journal of Environment and Sustainability Education, 3(1), 62–70.
Vilmala, B. K., Suhandi, A., Permanasari, A., &Kaniawati, I. (2022). Profile ( Knowledge, Attitude, And Practice ) Of Sustainable Science Teachers At Junior High Schools In Riau Towards The Sustainable Development Goals ( SDGs ). Journal of Engineering Science and Technology, 1–8.
Wibowo, A. M., Utaya, S., Wahjoedi, W., Zubaidah, S., Amin, S., & Prasad, R. R. (2024). Critical Thinking and Collaboration Skills on Environmental Awareness in Project-Based Science Learning. Jurnal Pendidikan IPA Indonesia, 13(1), 103–115.
Yusoff, A. F. M., Hashim, A., Muhamad, N., & Hamat, W. N. W. (2021). Application of Fuzzy Delphi Technique to Identify the Elements for Designing and Developing the e-PBM PI-Poli Module. Asian Journal of University Education, 17(1), 292–304.
Zhang, R., Shi, J., & Zhang, J. (2023). Research on the Quality of Collaboration in Project-Based Learning Based on Group Awareness. Sustainability, 15(15).
Zulyusri, Z., Elfira, I., Lufri, L., & Santosa, T. A. (2023). Literature Study: Utilization of the PjBL Model in Science Education to Improve Creativity and Critical Thinking Skills. JurnalPenelitian Pendidikan IPA, 9(1), 133–143.

