Adopting Model United Nations (MUN) in Discussion Method in Learning Environmental Pollution: D-MUN Method

Abstract

In the classroom, the discussion method has objectives to train the students with several skills, such as assertiveness when arguing with opposing ideas, the ability to brainstorm, groupthink, and improved communication with their peers. However, implementing the discussion method requires more preparation to run well. Improper organization of class discussion leads to no clear point or lesson learned that is explicitly stated after class discussion. Students’ participation becomes difficult to monitor whether all students contribute during the class discussion. They only talk when being pointed out by the teacher, and they will not speak if they do not have something to say. Science teachers’ experiences in conducting discussion methods were gathered before the study. Using the results from the preliminary survey, a conceptual framework of the discussion method by adapting Model United Nations (MUN), thus the so-called D-MUN METHOD, in learning about environmental pollution was developed. By adapting the structure of the discussion used in MUN to the classroom while learning science topics, the discussion in class becomes more engaging and increases students’ active participation and clarity of key concepts. The issues that become the topic of discussion should be relevant to the science content and include ill-structured problems. Therefore, the D-MUN METHOD will encourage students to present their solutions, which depends on their point of view (assigned as a specific country/region representative), and, in the end, come together to produce the best resolution. Keywords: Model United Nations (MUN), discussion method, environmental pollution, D-MUN method