The Development of Local Culture-Based Learning Discovery Model to Improve Life and Career Skills on the Students of the Faculty of Economics, State University of Manado

Abstract

This study aims to: (1) explain the problem and the need for a local culture-based discovery learning model, (2) develop a local culture-based discovery learning model, (3) determine the efficiency and effectiveness of the local culture-based discovery learning model to improve life and career skills.This study used research and development model by Borg and Gall (1983) which was developed by using the following principles, a constructivist design, collaborative and integrated development, and resulted in an open and flexible final model. The research was conducted in stages as: (1) a preliminary study to analyze the problems and needs, (2) the preparation of the initial model, the initial product testing through expert validation and restricted tests, (3) the final model testing through various stages such as a field test by a pre-experiment using static group comparison design. Data was collected using questionnaires, guided focus group discussion, project-based assessment and presentation of writing assessment. Results revealed by this study are as follows: (1) The implementation of discovery learning models in the Faculty of Economics was not optimal, and had a tendency to be conventional without proper innovation and motivation. The results of the needs analysis showed that students need a more actual method such as a discovery learning model which is based on the local culture and implemented using the principles of social learning. (2) The final design, based on three main components namely learning objectives, procedures and evaluation, has been developed and was able to produce entrepreneurial learning devices (syllabus, lesson plans and book teaching). (3) Preliminary tests immediately showed that the model and the resulting product were good. Field test using static group comparison design showed that there are significant differences between life and career skills of students in experimental classes and of those in static classes. Based on these results, it could be recommended that: (1) Other institutions could also adopt this development model in order to maximize the potential of the local culture in integration with the students’ potential to improve life and career skills; (2) Further development is possible through implementation in various other courses by taking different suitable dimension.