The Chemistry of Leadership: Integrating STEAM and Experiential Learning to Enhance Student Leadership Skills
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55927/ijsd.v5i2.14Keywords:
Student Leadership, Experiential Learning, Character Education, STEAM Education, Community EngagementAbstract
The development of leadership skills among junior high school students is an essential component of 21st-century character education. However, many school-based programs remain conventional and lack contextual learning experiences that integrate academic knowledge with social competencies. This community engagement initiative, conducted by the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Mulawarman, aimed to enhance students’ leadership, communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills through The Chemistry of Leadership Camp: Explore, React, Lead!. The program was implemented in two phases. The first phase, conducted at Berambai Waterfall, focused on leadership development through outdoor experiential learning involving 30 student council members. The second phase, conducted at SMPN 42 Samarinda, aimed to strengthen students’ character based on the eight dimensions of the graduate profile through talent showcase and reflective activities. The program applied experiential learning integrated with scientific simulations and STEAM-based collaboration. The results showed a significant improvement in leadership understanding, with mean scores increasing from 62.5 to 88.3, and correct response rates rising from 62.2% to 91.1%. Chemical analogies effectively supported conceptual understanding. Overall, this model offers an innovative and replicable approach to leadership and character education
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