Technological developments in learning encourage the use of interactive digital media to improve the quality of learning. At SMKN 1 Sooko Mojokerto, the use of game-based learning media such as Kahoot and Wordwall in Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS)-based evaluations is still limited, so their effectiveness on students' critical thinking skills still needs to be studied. This study aims to compare the effect of implementing HOTS questions based on Kahoot and Wordwall media on the critical thinking skills of SMKN 1 Sooko Mojokerto students. This study uses a quantitative approach with a quasi-experimental method involving two treatment groups, namely the Kahoot group and the Wordwall group. Critical thinking ability data were obtained through tests and analyzed using inferential statistics. The results show that there is a difference in the effect between the application of HOTS questions based on Kahoot and Wordwall on students' critical thinking skills, with Wordwall media showing higher results than Kahoot. This difference is influenced by the characteristics of Wordwall which is more flexible and interactive so it can support student involvement in understanding, analyzing, and solving HOTS questions. This finding supports the constructivism theory which emphasizes active student involvement in the learning process. Practically, this research can be a consideration for teachers in choosing appropriate digital learning media to improve students' critical thinking skills.
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