Journal of Digitalization in Physics Education (JDPE)
Vol. 1 No. 3 (2025): DECEMBER

The Effectiveness of Guided Inquiry Learning Model with Digital Simulations to Enhance Students’ Critical Thinking Skills in Physics

Mahdalysa Dayu (Universitas Negeri Surabaya)
Rahmatta Thoriq Lintangesukmanjaya (Universitas Negeri Surabaya)
Lindsay N. Bergsma (Tilburg University)



Article Info

Publish Date
31 Aug 2025

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to determine the effectiveness of the guided inquiry learning model integrated with digital simulation in enhancing students’ critical thinking skills on the topic of harmonic oscillation. Method: A quasi-experimental method with a pretest-posttest control group design. The participants were two Grade XI classes at SMAN 1 Pacet: the experimental group received guided inquiry learning with digital simulations, while the control group received guided inquiry learning without simulations. Instruments used included critical thinking skill tests (pre-test and post-test), classroom implementation observation sheets, and student response questionnaires. Results: The results showed that the implementation of learning in the experimental class was in the “outstanding” category, with an average score of 3.62 (89.5%). The paired t-test analysis indicated a significant improvement between pre-test and post-test scores in both the experimental (p=0.000) and control (p=0.003) classes, with mean score differences of 32.90 and 20.20, respectively. The N-Gain value of the experimental class was 0.68 (medium category), which was higher than the control class’s N-Gain of 0.39 (medium category). Student responses toward the learning approach were highly positive, with an overall average 0f 82% in the “outstanding” category.  Novelty: This study highlights the novelty of integrating PhET digital simulations into guided inquiry learning to foster critical thinking in physics education, specifically in understanding harmonic oscillation.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

dpe

Publisher

Subject

Computer Science & IT Decision Sciences, Operations Research & Management Education Industrial & Manufacturing Engineering Physics Social Sciences

Description

In addition to original articles, the journal features the following special sections: Research & Development in Physics Education Based Digital Technology: Research & Development area explores the creation and testing of new tools, methods, or frameworks that integrate digital technology into ...