Improving Students’ Critical Thinking Ability Using Problem Based Learning (PBL) Learning Model Based on PhET Simulation

The ability to think critically is one of the abilities of High Order Thinking that must be possessed by students, but in reality the mastery of this ability is still low. Therefore, this study aims to produce physics learning and research instruments that are feasible to use in learning physics by using PBL learning models, knowing the effectiveness of learning media in the form of PhET simulations in physics learning, and knowing the improvement of students' critical thinking skills. The subjects of this study were 62 grade 10 students. This research was a development research with 4D model. The define phase is done by defining the problems contained in learning so that appropriate learning and research instruments can be formulated. The design stage is carried out by developing physics learning and research instruments in accordance with what has been formulated at the define stage that implements the syntax of the PhET-assisted PBL learning model. The develop phase is done by producing revised learning instruments and physics research instruments based on designs that have been prepared at the design stage. The dissemination phase is carried out by disseminating development products in the form of learning instruments and physics research. The results showed that the physics learning and research instruments developed were feasible to be used in physics learning as evidenced by the results of validity and reliability. The learning media in the form of PhET were effectively used in physics learning, and the improvement of students' critical thinking skills in the modeling and implementation classes were included in the medium category.