Utilizing Mini Garden Project Media and Project-Based Learning to Increase Elementary School Students' Interest in Learning Science

Abstract

Science instruction in elementary schools often remains teacher-centered, resulting in low student engagement and interest; this is evident in the teaching of plant-related topics to fifth-grade students at SDN Unyur. This study aims to describe the implementation of science instruction using the "Mini Garden Project" medium integrated with the Project-Based Learning (PjBL) model, to assess student learning interest following this implementation, and to identify supporting and inhibiting factors. A qualitative descriptive approach was employed. Data were gathered through semi-structured in-depth interviews, non-participant observation, and document analysis involving fifth-grade teachers and students at SDN Unyur. The data were subsequently analyzed using the Miles and Huberman interactive model, comprising data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing/verification. The results indicate that instruction was conducted in accordance with the PjBL syntax ranging from defining the fundamental question to evaluating the experience and successfully boosted student learning interest, as evidenced by heightened attention, curiosity, engagement, active participation, and enthusiasm. Supporting factors included school backing, a suitable environment, and the availability of tools and materials, whereas inhibiting factors included time constraints and weather conditions. The study concludes that integrating an environment-based learning medium with the project-based learning model is effective in enhancing elementary students' interest in science learning.