SITTAH: Journal of Primary Education
Vol. 7 No. 1 (2026): SITTAH: Journal of Primary Education

The Effect of the PhET Simulation Media-based PjBL Learning Model on Improving Learning Outcomes

Surindani, Yuan Oemar (Unknown)
Wahyudin, Dinn (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Apr 2026

Abstract

This study aims to examine the effect of the Project-Based Learning (PjBL) model, integrated with PhET Interactive Simulations, on improving the science learning outcomes of fifth-grade elementary school students in magnetism, electricity, and technology in everyday life. A quasi-experimental design with a pretest-posttest control group was employed, involving 60 fifth-grade students from SDN 21 Sijuk, divided into an experimental class (n=30) receiving PjBL-PhET instruction and a control class (n=30) receiving conventional instruction. Data were collected through a validated 23-item multiple-choice test (KR-20 = 0.82), a structured observation sheet for student activities (Cohen's κ = 0.85), and a student response questionnaire (Cronbach's α = 0.91). Results showed that the experimental class achieved a significantly higher mean posttest score (85.67) than the control class (73.33), with a higher N-Gain of 0.71 compared to 0.25 in the control group. An independent sample t-test confirmed a statistically significant difference (p = 0.000) with a large effect size (Cohen's d = 1.70). Student learning activities in the experimental class achieved an average engagement of 87.5% (very active), with engagement gradually increasing across meetings. Student responses toward the learning approach were highly positive (89.3%), particularly regarding its benefits for conceptual understanding (91.0%). These findings demonstrate that integrating PjBL with PhET simulations enhances cognitive learning outcomes, active participation, and affective responses in elementary science education.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

sittah

Publisher

Subject

Education

Description

SITTAH: Journal of Primary Education covers the study of Islamic Education worldwide, especially at the primary school level or Madrasah Ibtidaiyah. The study should aim at gaining some new knowledge in the scope of Islamic Education or gaining any developmental advantages as these topics below: ...