Galaxy: Jurnal Pendidikan MIPA dan Teknologi
Vol. 3 No. 1 (2026): Galaxy: Jurnal Pendidikan MIPA dan Teknologi

The Secrets of Salt from the Earth’s Core: Bledug Kuwu as an Inspiration for Science Literacy of Elementary School Students

Catur Prasetiawati (Universitas Islam Sultan Agung Semarang)
Marno Nugroho (Universitas Islam Sultan Agung Semarang)
Galih Cahya Pratama (Universitas Islam Sultan Agung Semarang)



Article Info

Publish Date
07 Jun 2026

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of ethnoscience-based Natural Science (IPA) learning by utilizing the Bledug Kuwu phenomenon as a learning resource to enhance elementary school students’ scientific literacy. Bledug Kuwu is a unique geological phenomenon characterized by mud eruptions containing salt, which has long been utilized by the local community as a traditional source of salt. This research employed a mixed-method approach that combined qualitative and quantitative methods. Qualitative data were obtained through field observations, interviews with community members, teachers, and students, as well as an analysis of instructional documents. Quantitative data were collected through scientific literacy tests administered as pre-tests and post-tests to an experimental class and a control class, each consisting of 16 students. Quantitative analysis was conducted using paired sample t-tests, independent sample t-tests, and N-Gain analysis. The qualitative findings indicate that ethnoscience-based science learning incorporating the Bledug Kuwu phenomenon enhances students’ understanding of scientific concepts, curiosity, scientific attitudes, and awareness of environmental and local cultural values. Students demonstrated an improved ability to connect scientific concepts with real-life phenomena in their surrounding environment. The quantitative results show a significant improvement in scientific literacy in the experimental class compared to the control class, as indicated by higher post-test mean scores and moderate-to-high N-Gain values. These findings suggest that integrating local phenomena as ethnoscience-based learning resources makes science learning more contextual, meaningful, and effective. Therefore, Bledug Kuwu has strong potential as an inspiration for science learning to optimally develop scientific literacy and character among elementary school students.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

galaxy

Publisher

Subject

Chemistry Computer Science & IT Education Mathematics Physics

Description

Galaxy: Jurnal Pendidikan MIPA dan Teknologi is a high-quality open-access peer-reviewed research journal published by the Yayasan Insan Mulia Bima. Galaxy: Jurnal Pendidikan MIPA dan Teknologi provides a platform that welcomes and acknowledges high-quality empirical original research papers in the ...