The effectiveness of project-based learning model in the Merdeka Curriculum on statistics material in junior high school

In an effort to enhance student engagement and mathematical communication skills, this study explores the application of Project-Based Learning (PBL) within the Merdeka Curriculum. This study aims to assess and describe the effectiveness of Project-Based Learning (PBL) in the context of the Merdeka Curriculum, specifically for teaching Statistics in class VII H at SMP Negeri 13 Pontianak. The research employs an experimental method with a pre-experimental design. Data collection techniques include measurements, observations, and questionnaires. The instruments used for data collection consist of learning implementation observation sheets, student activity observation sheets, tests of students' mathematical communication skills, and student response questionnaires. The results indicate that the use of the PBL model in the Merdeka Curriculum for Statistics material in class VII H is effective. This is evidenced by several indicators: the learning implementation was rated very good with an average score of 3.53, student learning activities were classified as active with an average percentage of 78.60%, students' mathematical communication skills were classified as high with an achievement percentage of 81.66%, and more than 50% of students gave positive responses, indicating a favorable reception to the learning method. Therefore, Project-Based Learning within the Merdeka Curriculum proves to be an effective approach for enhancing student engagement, mathematical communication skills, and overall learning outcomes in Statistics.