Sorin Cristea

Bio: Sorin Cristea is an academic researcher from University of Bucharest. The author has contributed to research in topics: Experiential learning & Adult education. The author has an hindex of 3, co-authored 3 publications receiving 78 citations.

Development of Learning Materials Oriented on Problem-Based Learning Model to Improve Students’ Mathematical Problem Solving Ability and Metacognition Ability

Abstract: This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of learning materials oriented on problem-based learning models, the improvement mathematical problem solving ability and students’ metacognition ability. Learning materials that developed are lesson plan, student book, student worksheet, mathematical problem solving ability and students’ metacognition ability test. This research is a development research by using the development model of Thiagarajan, Semmel and Semmel (1974). Valid learning materials according to experts, tested in class VII of SMP Negeri 13 Medan (seventh year junior high school). The results showed that learning materials oriented on problem-based learning met the effective criteria and improved mathematical problem solving and metacognition ability. Level students’ metacognition when problem solving met level of strategic use, aware use, and tacit use.

Developing Critical-Thinking Skills through the Collaboration of Jigsaw Model with Problem-Based Learning Model.

Abstract: This research aimed at examining the effectiveness of collaboration of Jigsaw and problem-based learning (PBL) model in developing students’ critical thinking skills. This research exerted an experimental design using pre-experimental one group pretest-posttest. The implementation of such model collaboration was carried out in SMK Batik 1 Surakarta, Central Java, Indonesia by engaging 37 accounting students of class XI. Before and after the implementation of the twomodel collaboration, the students were given the tests of critical thinking skills which were set in the same composition. The research data were in the form of pretest and posttest scores which were analyzed by examining t-test and gain score whose calculation was assisted by SPSS 23 program. The result indicated that there was a difference between the pretest score and the posttest score with the significance level of 0,000 < 0,05. The average of pretest and posttest scores respectively referred to 48,44 and 68,93. Accordingly, the implementation of collaboration of Jigsaw and problem-based learning (PBL) model was effective in developing students’ critical thinking skills. From this research finding, there was an impediment of time limitation in enacting the collaboration of the two models. This constraint happened while presenting the result of group discussion.

Graduate employability: How the higher education institutions can meet the demand of the labour market

Abstract: Purpose Following the outcry of several employers that many higher education (HE) graduates do not possess employability skills and therefore are not employable, the purpose of this paper, therefore, is to examine what the labour market (LM) actually demands from the higher education institutions (HEIs) and how the demands of the LM can be met by the HEIs in Nigeria. Design/methodology/approach The study is based on interviews and focus group with 28 university professors, executives of the students’ industrial work scheme (SIWES), industry executives, executive officers of the Directorate of Employment and the HE course/programme leaders that revealed substantial information about what the LM actually requires from the HE, and how the HE can meet the demands of the LM in terms of supply of quality graduates. Findings The key findings reveal that with adequate teaching resources and competent teachers, graduate employability skills (technical and soft), which the LM demands from the HEIs, can be imparted to the students. Concerning LM and HEIs partnerships, it is found that understanding the demands of the LM by the HEIs can enhance the graduates’ outcomes and their prospects in the LM. Research limitations/implications The study argues that the graduate employability is still relevant to the existing practice, but further engagement and research surrounding how the HEIs in the developing countries, especially Nigeria, can meet the actual demands of the LM in terms of competent graduates are needed to examine this range of HE. Originality/value The study provides significant suggestions on the improvement needs of the HE teachers to inspire and motivate students to increase the knowledge (know-how), skills (how to do), self-efficacy (effectiveness) and qualities (technical and creative knowledge) required by the LM.