Transformation of Conventional Learning to Project-Based Learning in Developing 21st Century Skills

Abstract

This study aims to describe the transformation process from conventional learning to project-based learning (Project Based Learning/PjBL) in developing 21st century skills among students at MTsN 2 Bandung City. The background of this study is based on the still-dominant teacher-centered approach which causes students to be less actively engaged in the learning process. This study employed a descriptive qualitative approach with data collection techniques consisting of participatory observation, semi-structured interviews, and documentation. The research subjects consisted of two teachers and seventh and eighth grade students who were directly involved in PjBL activities for three months from February to April 2025. The results show that the implementation of PjBL successfully increased students active engagement and supported the development of 4C skills namely critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity. However, obstacles were still found in the form of limited learning time, teacher readiness, and differences in student participation levels which can be overcome through gradual habituation and intensive guidance from teachers. Overall, PjBL proved effective as a learning model aligned with 21st century education demands and implies the importance of school policy support in consistently implementing PjBL in urban madrasah tsanawiyah settings.