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Chemistry-Based Leadership Camp Boosts Student Skills Through STEAM and Experiential Learning
A team of researchers from Universitas Mulawarman in Indonesia has demonstrated that combining chemistry concepts with experiential learning can significantly improve leadership skills among junior high school students. The study, led by Djihan Ryn Pratiwi and Noor Hindryawati from the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, was published in 2026 in the Indonesian Journal of Society Development. The findings highlight a novel, science-based approach to character education that responds to growing demands for 21st-century competencies such as leadership, collaboration, and critical thinking.
The research matters because many school leadership programs remain theoretical and lack real-world application. By integrating STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) with hands-on learning, the program offers a practical and replicable model for improving student engagement and leadership capacity.
Background: Rethinking Leadership Education in Schools
Modern education systems are under increasing pressure to prepare students for complex global challenges, including rapid technological change and evolving workforce demands. Leadership, communication, and teamwork are now considered essential skills, especially during adolescence—a critical stage for identity and character development.
In Indonesia, student councils (OSIS) often serve as platforms for leadership training. However, existing programs tend to be administrative and ceremonial rather than transformative. This gap prompted researchers at Universitas Mulawarman to design an innovative intervention called “The Chemistry of Leadership Camp: Explore, React, Lead!”
The program leverages scientific metaphors—such as chemical reactions and equilibrium—to help students understand leadership dynamics in a more concrete and engaging way.
Methodology: Learning Leadership Through Experience and Science
The study was conducted in October 2025 and involved 30 student council members from SMPN 42 Samarinda. The program took place in two locations: an outdoor setting at Berambai Waterfall and the school campus.
Researchers used a structured experiential learning model combined with STEAM-based instruction. The program unfolded in three phases:
- Explore: Students developed self-awareness through games and group discussions
- React: Participants engaged in teamwork and problem-solving using simple scientific simulations
- Lead: Students applied leadership skills through presentations, performances, and mini-projects
Chemistry concepts were embedded as learning tools:
- Synthesis reactions represented teamwork
- Exothermic and endothermic reactions illustrated emotional dynamics
- Catalysts symbolized leadership roles
- Chemical equilibrium modeled balanced decision-making
Evaluation methods included pre- and post-tests, observational data, and group reflections.
Key Findings: Significant Gains in Leadership Understanding
The results show a strong improvement in students’ leadership skills and conceptual understanding:
- Average leadership scores increased from 62.5 to 88.3
- Correct response rates rose from 62.2% to 91.1%
- Students demonstrated higher confidence, participation, and collaboration
Notable improvements included:
- A 40% increase in understanding the program’s leadership stages
- A 37% improvement in recognizing the purpose of talent showcase activities
- A 34% gain in interpreting chemistry-based leadership analogies
Smaller but meaningful gains were observed in conflict resolution and self-reflection, likely due to higher initial baseline knowledge.
The findings confirm that combining experiential learning with scientific analogies enhances both cognitive and social development.
Real-World Impact: A Scalable Model for Education
This research offers practical implications for educators, policymakers, and schools:
- Education sector: Provides a replicable model for integrating leadership training into curricula
- Teachers: Demonstrates how interdisciplinary approaches can make abstract concepts more accessible
- Students: Builds essential skills such as teamwork, communication, and critical thinking
- Policymakers: Supports the implementation of character education aligned with the Pancasila student profile
The use of outdoor environments and collaborative activities also boosts student motivation and engagement, aligning with modern educational theories emphasizing active learning.
Expert Insight
Noor Hindryawati of Universitas Mulawarman explains that the program’s success lies in its interdisciplinary design:
“Integrating chemistry as a metaphorical framework allows students to connect abstract leadership concepts with real-world experiences, making learning more meaningful and impactful.”
This approach reflects constructivist learning theory, where students actively build knowledge through experience and reflection.
Limitations and Future Research
While the results are promising, the study involved a relatively small sample size and focused on a single school. The evaluation also measured short-term outcomes, leaving questions about long-term impact.
Future research is expected to expand the model to larger and more diverse student populations, as well as track long-term leadership development.
Author Profile
- Djihan Ryn Pratiwi, M.Sc. – Lecturer and researcher in science education, Universitas Mulawarman
- Noor Hindryawati, M.Sc. – Corresponding author, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Mulawarman; specializes in chemistry education and community engagement
- Research Team: Includes Winni Astuti, Eva Marliana, Erwin, Rudi Kartika, Ritbey Ruga, Rita Hairani, Dirgarini J.N., Saibun Sitorus, Daniel, Veliyana Londong, Chairul Saleh, Abdul Aziz, Subur Pasaribu, and Irvin Dayadi—academics and practitioners focused on interdisciplinary education and leadership development
Source
Journal: Indonesian Journal of Society Development (IJSD), Vol. 5, No. 2
Year: 2026
DOI : https://doi.org/10.55927/ijsd.v5i2.14
URL : https://journalijsd.my.id/index.php/ijsd/index
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