The Influence of Problem-Based Learning (PBL) on Mathematics Learning: Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Problem-based learning (PBL) is one of the approaches that is believed can help in improving students’ thinking skills and thus improve students’ 21st-century learning skills. This study aimed to understand the influence of PBL on math learning by examining the existing literature. This study can help teachers to know the influence of PBL on math learning before implementing PBL in their teaching. Other than that, researchers can know the gaps in math learning methods, especially for the PBL method. The methodology used for this study was the PRISMA approach. A total of 20 articles from 2018 to 2022 have been obtained from two databases, SCOPUS and WOS, and were selected based on three stages in the PRISMA model, namely the identification, screening, and inclusion stages. The findings of the analysis indicate that implementing PBL can improve students’ academic achievement in mathematics, improve students’ understanding of topics in mathematics, improve students’ thinking skills as well as improve students’ ability to solve math problems. Furthermore, in terms of affective domains, implementing PBL can help promote students’ self-learning and improve their group work and communication skills. Moreover, students’ attitudes toward math learning became more positive after implementing the PBL. However, successfully implementing PBL requires students to participate in group activities actively. With that in mind, teachers are encouraged to build a learning environment that can promote students’ involvement in PBL activities and help in their learning process. As a recommendation, further studies can be conducted to review in-depth the readiness of teachers to implement PBL in learning mathematics.