Ajeng Purwati Ningtyas (1)
This study aims to examine the effect of project-based learning on the collaboration competence and problem-solving competence of management students, and to test collaboration competence as the mechanism mediating that relationship. The research applies a quantitative explanatory survey of an ex post facto nature. Respondents are active students of the Management Study Program, Universitas Halu Oleo, selected through purposive sampling on the criterion of having completed at least one project-based course. Data were gathered through a closed-ended online questionnaire and analysed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling, with the type of mediation classified according to the typology of Zhao, Lynch, and Chen. The results show that project-based learning strengthens both competences, and that collaboration competence in turn strengthens problem-solving competence. The mediation is complementary: most of the effect travels through collaboration, so effectiveness depends on whether project structures create positive interdependence rather than group assignments alone.
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