STEM Learning Transformation: Solar Cell–Based Robotic Ship as an Innovative Medium for Student Creativity

This study aims to examine the validity, practicality, and effectiveness of a STEM-based robotic solar cell ship as a learning medium to enhance students’ creative thinking skills. The research employed a Research and Development (R&D) approach using the ADDIE development model, which consists of the Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation stages. The participants were 64 tenth-grade students from SMK Negeri 1 Dumai, selected through random sampling. Data were collected using questionnaires, observation sheets, and creative thinking skills tests. The validity results showed that the robotic solar cell ship met the valid criteria, with average scores of 3.75 for device functionality, 3.67 for learning components, 3.58 for ease of use, and 3.59 for aesthetics and construction. In terms of practicality, positive responses were obtained from teachers (3.89), prospective teachers (3.68), and students (3.10), indicating that the media was easy to use and suitable for classroom learning. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the STEM robotic solar cell ship was proven through improvements in students’ creative thinking indicators: elaboration (51.25%), originality (46.09%), fluency (86.75%), and flexibility (71.45%). These findings demonstrate that the media supports students in understanding renewable energy, technological design, and the working principles of solar-powered electrical systems. Overall, the robotic solar cell ship serves as an innovative STEM learning tool that promotes creativity, environmental awareness, and sustainable technology literacy to address future global challenges.