ANALISIS KEMAMPUAN BERPIKIR KRITIS MAHASISWA DALAM MENGINTEGRASIKAN KONSEP IPA PADA MATERI EFEK RUMAH KACA

Abstract

This study aims to describe students’ critical thinking skills in integrating science concepts related to the greenhouse effect. The study employed a descriptive method with a sample of 15 sixth-semester students from the Chemistry Education Program at Pattimura University. The research instrument consisted of a single critical-thinking-based essay question that integrated concepts from physics, chemistry, and biology regarding the greenhouse effect. Data analysis was conducted descriptively based on critical thinking indicators, including interpretation, analysis, explanation, inference, and evaluation. The results indicate that most students were able to understand the relationship between increased CO₂ levels and rising global temperatures. Students were also able to explain the role of human activities in increasing carbon emissions and the role of plants in absorbing CO₂ through photosynthesis. However, students still struggled to explain the scientific mechanism of infrared radiation absorption by CO₂ molecules and to integrate science concepts comprehensively. Students’ answers tended to remain general and did not yet demonstrate deep scientific reasoning. This study indicates that context-based environmental essay questions can be used to assess students’ critical thinking skills in integrated science education.