THE DEVELOPMENT OF COMPUTER GAME-BASED INSTRUCTIONAL MODEL USING SIMULATION AND PROBLEM SOLVING PROCESS TO ENHANCE CRITICAL THINKING OF GRADE 6 STUDENTS

Abstract

               The objective of this research paper is to 1) develop the computer game - based instructional model using simulation learning and problem solving process to enhance critical thinking; 2) make a computer game; 3) study the outcome of using the computer game-based instructional model; 4) have the computer game-based instructional model certified by experts. The samples were 154 students who studied in grade 6 at Wattananusas School, Phanat Nikhom, Chonburi in the first semester of 2020 by using simple random sampling. Instruments were suitability assessment form for the draft of the computer game-based instructional model to be completed by experts, quality assessment form for the computer game and instruction manual, the computer game, critical thinking test, students’ opinion survey and the computer game - based instructional model certification form for expert. The data analysis used mean, standard deviation and t-test. The findings of the research showed that 1) The computer game-based instructional model consisted of 6 components, namely the characteristics of the computer game that uses simulation learning and the problem-solving process, the learning through simulation, the problem-solving process, the learners’ role, the instructors’ role and the technology that supports learning.  The three phases of the computer game-based instructional model were the analysis and design phase, the process phase and the evaluation phase. 2) The computer game featured simulation and activities that allowed students to practice problem solving. Expert evaluation showed that its quality was at the highest level. 3) After using the computer game-based instructional model, the students’ critical thinking improved significantly at .05 level and students thought the computer game was highly levels In terms of design, activities, and content. Finally, 4) the computer game-based instructional model (CGSP Model) was certified by experts with the highest level of suitability ( = 4.80)