Al Ibtida: Jurnal Pendidikan Guru MI
Vol. 13 No. 1 (2026): June 2026

Examining Self-Regulated Learning as a Dynamic Network in Inquiry-Based Elementary Science Education

Fransiska Astri Kusumastuti (Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia)
Ari Widodo (Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia)
Ernawulan Syaodih (Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia)
Muslim (Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Jun 2026

Abstract

Background: Self-regulated learning is a key determinant of successful inquiry-based science learning, yet little is known about how elementary students' regulatory behaviors interact dynamically throughout the inquiry process. Aims: This study examines self-regulated learning as a dynamic network of regulatory behaviors within inquiry-based elementary science education and evaluates changes in students' regulatory ability after instruction. Methods: An embedded mixed-methods design was employed during a six-week intervention involving 207 elementary students from three public schools in Bandung, Indonesia. Qualitative data from inquiry worksheets were transformed into network data to map self-regulated learning behaviors across five inquiry stages, while pretest–posttest self-regulated learning questionnaire data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Results: The results indicate that self-regulated learning operates as a dynamic and interconnected network. The self-regulated learning network consisted of 20 nodes and 29 directed edges, with a directed density of 0.076, modularity of 0.662, and directed clustering coefficient of 0.283. Forethought behaviors in the goal-setting stage showed strong weighted connectivity, while monitoring and reflection behaviors in the data-analysis stage acted as regulatory bridges. Wilcoxon signed-rank analysis showed a significant increase in self-regulated learning scores from pretest (M = 3.13, Mdn = 3.08, IQR = 0.37) to posttest (M = 3.32, Mdn = 3.24, IQR = 0.59), Z = -6.72, p < .001, r = .47. However, the N-gain value of 0.23 indicates low normalized improvement. Conclusion: These findings suggest that inquiry-based science learning contributes to measurable improvements in elementary students' self-regulated learning. However, the relatively low learning gain indicates that sustained and explicit scaffolding is necessary to strengthen self-regulatory processes throughout inquiry activities.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ibtida

Publisher

Subject

Description

Al Ibtida: Jurnal Pendidikan Guru MI is a high-quality peer-reviewed journal published by Department of Madrasah Ibtidaiyah Teacher Education, Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training, UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon, Indonesia in collaboration with Indonesian Islamic Elementary Education Lecturers ...