Students' Development of Collaboration and Communication Skills in Science Classrooms Using Socio-Scientific Issues

Abstract

Today’s students must excel in collaboration and communication to succeed, particularly in science education. Preliminary observations revealed that Acehnese students exhibited poor teamwork and communication skills. Socio-scientific issues can enhance these competencies when integrated into science teaching. This study used the "Tarek Pukat" activity—a traditional Acehnese fishing method—as a discussion topic related to the concept of speed in physics. Communication skills were assessed based on students’ ability to articulate opinions, adjust language and tone, respond positively to others, and present ideas clearly and persuasively. Collaboration skills included research and information sharing, problem-solving, active listening, quality work, group compromise, mutual respect, shared accountability, time management, and preparedness. The study observed 278 ninth-grade students in Aceh using a quantitative descriptive approach and observation sheets as instruments. The findings indicated that integrating socio-scientific issues positively influenced students’ communication and collaboration skills. These skills were categorized in the medium range, with average scores of 3.34 and 3.48, respectively, on a 5-point scale. This research highlights the potential of socio-scientific issues, such as the culturally relevant "Tarek Pukat" activity, in improving essential skills for science education and underscores the importance of integrating local context into learning.