Development of a Project-Based Blended Learning (PjBBL) Model to Enhance Collaboration and Creativity Skills of Early Childhood Education Students in Creating Digital Educational Games

Project-Based Blended Learning (PjBBL) integrates project-based learning with a combination of face-to-face and online learning environments. This model aims to improve critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication skills by engaging students in real-world projects while utilizing digital technology. The study’s objectives were to (1) develop a valid PjBBL model to enhance collaboration and creativity skills in creating digital educational games, (2) ensure its practicality, and (3) demonstrate its effectiveness. Using the Research and Development (R&D) methodology with the Dick & Carey (2015) model, this study involved 38 students from the Early Childhood Teacher Education Program at Universitas Nahdlatul Ulama Surabaya. Participants were divided into control and experimental groups, and data were collected through observations, questionnaires, and tests. Statistical analysis, including the Paired T-test and Wilcoxon test, revealed that the PjBBL model significantly improved students’ collaboration and creativity skills, with a t-value of 2.85 (p-value = 0.032). The study showed that the PjBBL model was more effective than conventional teaching methods in fostering teamwork, creativity, and innovative thinking. The PjBBL model was found to be valid, practical, and effective in enhancing collaboration and creativity, with moderate to high improvement in students' skills. This research contributes a novel, validated model that supports student learning in creating digital educational games through project-based blended learning