Implementation of Blended Learning Innovation in Graph Theory Application Course to Face the Education Challenge in the 21st Century

Abstract

Abstract-Facing the education challenges in the 21st century, Indonesia needs resources that have systematic, logical, creative and cooperative problem-solving skills. A learning alternative in constructivist view that can be applied to improve students' activity and creativity is to apply blended learning innovation in the Graph Theory Application course that combines some types of learning: face-to-face, offline, on line and direct experience in the field. Online learning is done by using ICT module that utilizes Google map. Indirect experience learning in the field, students work together in a group to gain problem-solving experience in the industry.To know the creative thinking process of students in identifying and solving the problems, the researchers used Creative Problem Solving (CPS) model. The searching of the thinking process employing CPS model showed that in step of (1) objective finding, the students were creative in identifying and finding objectives. In stage of (2) fact-finding, the groups of students were creative in collecting data obtained from field surveys, meanwhile in next stage of (3) problem-finding, the students were less creative in finding problems. At this stage, the students were difficult in modeling problems so a guidance was provided to them. In stage of (4) idea-finding, the students were creative in finding ideas to choose the algorithms used. In last two steps of (5) idea evaluation and (6) idea-implementation, the students were creative in implementing the problems into the program and analyzing the process.From the identification of the thinking process using CPS model, the students were creative in the steps of objectivefinding, fact-finding, idea-finding, idea evaluation, and idea implementation. However, in problem-finding step, they were less creative in modeling real problem into graph application problem.