Penerapan Metode Numbered Head Together Untuk Meningkatkan Hasil Belajar IPS Siswa Kelas VIII

Low Social Studies (IPS) learning outcomes among Grade VIII.1 students at SMP Negeri 1 Bulango Utara motivated this study. In the initial observation, only 8 of 25 students (32%) reached the learning objective attainment criterion (KKTP) of 75, because instruction was dominated by lectures and individual assignments. This study aimed to improve student learning outcomes by implementing the Numbered Head Together (NHT) learning method in IPS. This classroom action research was conducted in two cycles, each consisting of two meetings and comprising the stages of planning, action, observation, and reflection. The subjects were 25 students of Grade VIII.1. Data were collected through teacher and student activity observation sheets, a multiple-choice test, and documentation, and were analyzed using descriptive quantitative analysis with a classical mastery indicator of 80%. The results showed that learning mastery increased from 32% in the pre-cycle to 60% in Cycle I and 88% in Cycle II, with class mean scores of 75.6 in Cycle I and 86.8 in Cycle II. Teacher and student activities also improved, particularly in group collaboration, willingness to express opinions, and individual responsibility. It can be concluded that the NHT method is effective in improving IPS learning outcomes and can serve as an alternative student-centered cooperative learning strategy.