Utilization of POME in Voltaic Cell Learning through the PjBL-STEM Model Oriented Toward Green Chemistry Principles

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Abstract
This research investigates the innovative utilization of Palm Oil Mill Effluent (POME) as an environmentally friendly electrolyte in voltaic cell education through the implementation of a Project-Based Learning model integrated with STEM (PjBL-STEM) and aligned with green chemistry principles. The study employed a quantitative approach with a quasi-experimental design, specifically using a one group pretest-posttest design, involving 32 12-grade students from Sekolah Indonesia Kota Kinabalu. The instructional intervention followed the PjBL-STEM framework through five systematic phases: (1) identification of environmental problems related to POME waste, (2) design of POME-based voltaic cell prototypes, (3) hands-on experimentation and data collection, (4) analysis of electrochemical performance, and (5) presentation and reflection on sustainable solutions. Results demonstrated exceptional implementation fidelity, with achievement rates ranging from 88.7% to 93.5% across all learning phases, indicating strong student engagement and effective model execution. Most notably, the intervention produced significant learning gains, as evidenced by an average N-Gain score of 0.71 (high category), with post-test results (84.0) showing dramatic improvement from pre-test scores (42.0). These improvements spanned three key domains: redox reaction concepts, application of green chemistry principles, and electrical energy conversion understanding. The study successfully integrated multiple green chemistry principles into the learning process, particularly: (1) waste prevention through POME repurposing, (2) use of renewable feedstocks, (3) safer solvent alternatives, and (4) inherently safer chemistry by eliminating hazardous reagents. Students not only mastered electrochemical concepts but also developed critical environmental awareness and problem-solving skills through this authentic, sustainability-focused learning experience. These findings substantiate that PjBL-STEM combined with green chemistry principles offers an effective, practical, and sustainable approach to chemistry education. The model successfully bridges theoretical knowledge with real-world environmental applications, while utilizing low-cost, locally available materials.

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