Enhancing Students' Understanding of Integrated Social Studies (IPAS) in Grade V at MI Ma'arif Sarampu through Collaborative Learning Activities

Abstract

This Classroom Action Research (CAR) aims to enhance Grade V students' understanding of Integrated Social Studies (IPAS) at MI Ma'arif Sarampu through collaborative learning activities. The primary objective of this study is to explore how collaborative learning methods, such as group discussions, project-based tasks, and peer interactions, can improve students' comprehension of social studies concepts, including geography, history, and culture. The research was conducted in two cycles, each consisting of planning, action, observation, and reflection stages. In each cycle, students were engaged in cooperative tasks that required them to work together to explore, analyze, and present social studies topics. Data were collected through classroom observations, assessments, and reflections from both students and teachers. The findings suggest that collaborative learning activities significantly improved students' understanding of IPAS by fostering critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills. Students became more engaged, demonstrated better retention of the material, and developed a deeper connection to the subject matter. This study indicates that integrating collaborative learning into the teaching of social studies can create a more dynamic and interactive learning environment. It is recommended that MI Ma'arif Sarampu continue to implement these methods to further enhance students' interest and performance in Integrated Social Studies.