IMPLEMENTATION OF STEM LEARNING BASED ON SCRATCH CODING TO IMPROVE DIGITAL SKILLS AND CREATIVITY OF STUDENTS OF MUHAMMADIYAH 18 ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Abstract

The era of globalization and digitalization requires the younger generation to have adequate critical thinking, creative, collaborative, and technological skills. To answer this challenge, the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) learning approach based on Scratch coding is applied through community service activities at SD Muhammadiyah 18 Surabaya. This activity introduces STEM and coding concepts with an interactive and relevant project-based method.The implementation method includes preparation, teaching coding with Scratch, project-based learning, and evaluation. Students are trained to create projects such as animations, educational games, and interactive stories, with guidance from teachers who are also given companion training.The results showed increased students' understanding of STEM and coding concepts, high enthusiasm, and better critical, creative, and collaborative thinking skills. Teachers gained new insights into integrating coding learning into the curriculum. Some challenges, such as limited tools and varying levels of student understanding, require further development.In conclusion, this activity has a positive impact on improving the quality of STEM and coding learning. It is the first step in developing innovative education at the elementary school level. Widespread implementation of similar programs can support the readiness of the younger generation to face the digital era