Mind Map Learning Models and The Development of Critical Thinking Skills in Social Studies at SMP Negeri 11 Semarang

Various problems often occur during learning, such as what happens to class VIII students at SMP Negeri 11 Semarang. There is a phenomenon of a lack of critical thinking skills in students during learning. Teachers try to help improve students' critical thinking skills so that they can follow learning, especially on complex material. The purpose of this study was (1) to describe the use of mind map learning model in the development of critical thinking skills of grade VIII students in social studies subjects, (2) to analyze the effectiveness of the use of mind map learning model in improving critical thinking skills of grade VIII students in social studies subjects, (3) to identify factors that influence the success of the application of mind map learning model in the development of critical thinking skills. Critical thinking skills are essential for students in understanding and analyzing complex social problems. The mind map model is used as a learning tool that facilitates students' organization of information visually, connection to concepts, and increased active involvement in the learning process. This research used a qualitative method with a phenomenological approach, collecting data through observation, interviews, and documentation. The research subjects were VIII-B and VIII-E students totaling 32 students from each class. Data analysis used interactive analysis techniques. The results of this study show: (1) The application of the mind map learning model significantly increases student involvement in the learning process, students show high enthusiasm and can collaborate in groups to compile mind maps, this model also creates more interactive and interesting learning to improve student understanding of social studies learning materials. (2) The results showed that applying Mind Map in social studies learning can improve students' critical thinking skills, such as analyzing, evaluating, and information-seeking skills. In addition, it increases students' understanding of learning materials but also helps them to think logically and creatively. (3) Evaluation conducted by social studies teachers covers 3 main aspects, namely reflection on the learning process, the accuracy of the teaching module used, as well as challenges and obstacles in learning. This research can conclude that the mind map learning model is a learning model used to convey concepts or ideas in a way that encourages brain creativity and can improve students' critical thinking skills. Keywords: Mind map models, critical thinking, social studies learning, grade VIII students.