Teacher and Students’ Perception on the Implementation of Problem-Based Learning in Improving Speaking Skills

​This research was conducted to find out the teacher and students’ perception on the implementation of problem-based learning in improving speaking skills. To achieve that, the writer made two questions: 1) what are students’ perceptions on the implementation of problem-based learning?, and 2) what are the teacher’ perceptions on the implementation of problem-based learning?
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​In processing the data, the writer used the qualitative descriptive approach. There were 14 students and 1 teacher from SMAN 21 Makassar included in this research. The data were collected through observations and interviews after the implementation of two different methods, including problem-based learning method.
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​The findings of this research showed that majority of students claimed to prefer the application of the problem-based learning method in the learning process, especially to improve students' speaking skills. Students were more enthusiastic about the discussions. Where the topics were not based on handbooks and discussed more about everyday life which could be more easily understood and reached by all students in the class. In addition, they can exchange ideas and respond to each other not only with their own group but also with other group which different from the previous learning method. The teacher were happy and excited to see the responses and participation of his students who used to be silent in class, finally speaking too. He admitted that this method gave a good impact in raising the classroom atmosphere and making students pay attention to the lesson again.