The Influence of the Problem-Based Contextual Teaching and Learning (CTL) Method on the PAK Learning Outcomes of Class VIII Students

Abstract

Christian Religious Education (CRE) has an important role in shaping students’ moral character, spiritual awareness, and value-based decision-making in school life. This study aimed to determine the effect of the Problem-Based Contextual Teaching and Learning (CTL) method on the learning outcomes of Christian Religious Education (CRE) and to examine the differences in learning outcomes between students taught using the Problem-Based CTL method and those taught using the conventional lecture method among eighth-grade students at SMP Kristen Palangka Raya. This research employed a quantitative approach using a quasi-experimental design with a nonequivalent control group design. The sample consisted of 30 students, divided equally into an experimental class and a control class. Data were collected through observation, documentation, pre-tests, and post-tests, and were analyzed using descriptive statistics, normality and homogeneity tests, and the Independent Sample *t*-Test with the assistance of SPSS version 26. The findings revealed that the experimental class achieved a higher mean post-test score (83.13) than the control class (69.80). The Independent Sample *t*-Test produced a significance value of 0.000 (<0.05), indicating that the Problem-Based CTL method had a statistically significant positive effect on students' Christian Religious Education learning outcomes and that students taught using the Problem-Based CTL method performed significantly better than those taught through the lecture method. The results indicate that contextual and problem-based learning promotes active participation, critical thinking, meaningful learning, and the ability to connect biblical concepts with real-life situations, thereby improving students' cognitive achievement.