Improving the students’ capability in comprehending the English text types through collaborative learning (a classroom action research at Madrasah Aliyah Negeri Sukoharjo in 2008/2009 academic year)

Oleh :
Hardi - S890907008 - Sekolah Pascasarjana

ABSTRACT This research was conducted at MAN Sukoharjo. The subjects of the research were the eleventh year students of science one in 2008/2009 academic year. The research aims to (1) identify whether collaborative learning (CL) can improve the students’ capability in comprehending the English texts; (2) and describe the teaching and learning situation when CL activity is implemented in reading class. The study applied action research technique to improve the students’ capability in comprehending the English texts through CL. Action research is a way of reflecting on teaching which is done by systematically collecting data on everyday practice and analyzing it in order to come to some decisions about what the future practice should be. The research consisted of two cycles, with four meetings in every cycle; consisting of planning, action, observation, and reflection in each cycle. There are two types of data in the research, namely the numerical and non numerical data which were collected by observation, interview, questionnaire, and test. The numerical data was analyzed by using descriptive statistic, finding out the mean of the scores in the test and the significant improvement of the score by using non independent t-test. The non-numerical data were analyzed by using constant comparative technique proposed by Strauss and Glasser consisting of the following steps: (1) comparing incidents applicable to each category; (2) integrating categories and their properties; delimiting the theory; and (4) writing the theory. The result of the research showed that CL technique could improve the students’ capability in comprehending the English text types. The mean of pre-test was 4.0, the mean of cycle 1 was 5.4, and the mean of cycle 2 was 6.6. The data proved that CL which was supported by Counseling Learning really improved the students’ capabilities. First, they could mention some English text types, differentiate them, classify the organization of the text, mention the language features, mention the social function of the text, and infer the conclusion. Second, their ability in oral activities improved through the phases of the treatments. Third, they got good understanding from the phases of the treatments to improve the writing activities. Fourth, finishing the tasks collaboratively could motivate them to be communicative activities so that they could create good atmosphere. And fifth, they got the ability to improve their learning strategy without being instructed and guided by the teacher. The institution should prove the required facilities to support teaching and learning process. The other researcher should prepare the planning of the research well in order to get a good result.