Email this article Mathematics Learning Transformation through MESSI LARI Application: Critical Thinking Educative Game for Elementary Students
), Diana Ermawati(2), Hisbulloh Als Mustofa(3)
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(1) Department of Primary School Teacher Education, Universitas Muria Kudus, Indonesia
(2) Department of Primary School Teacher Education, Universitas Muria Kudus, Indonesia
(3) Department of Physics, Sultan Idris Education University, Malaysia
Corresponding Author
Mathematics Learning Transformation through MESSI LARI Application: Critical Thinking Educative Game for Primary School Students. Critical thinking skill is one of the essential 21st-century skills that plays a crucial role in addressing the complexity of life’s problems. However, students still demonstrate low levels of critical thinking, as they tend to accept information without in-depth analysis. Elementary students are increasingly exposed to gadgets, often losing focus during lessons, relying on memorization rather than analyzing problems, and struggling to understand math questions. Objective: This study aimed to develop a technology-based learning medium to enhance students’ critical thinking skills and to evaluate its validity, effectiveness, and practicality. Method: The Research and Development (R&D) approach was employed using the 4D model: Define, Design, Develop, and Disseminate. The study involved 27 fifth-grade students as subjects at Elementary School 4 Troso. The instruments included validation sheets, test items, and questionnaires. The data analysis used the paired sample t-test and the N-Gain test (to determine the effectiveness of the MESSI LARI application). Findings: First, the validation of the MESSI LARI application reached a mean score of 87% from two experts, classified as very valid. Second, the application reported an adequate effectiveness rate of 71.8% based on pretest and posttest results. Third, student questionnaire responses indicated a practicality score of 86.67%, categorized as very practical. Conclusion: This study confirms that the MESSI LARI application, a Critical Thinking Educational Game, is valid, effective, and practical for use in elementary mathematics learning.
Keywords: transformation, elementary mathematics, MESSI LARI application, educative game, critical thinking.
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