Future Space: Studies in Geo-Education
Vol. 3 No. 3 (2026): Future Space: Studies in Geo-Education

The Interactive Technology-Based Engagement Model (ITEM): Optimizing Geo-TPACK and Spatial Cognition in Secondary Distance Learning

Mega Reskyanti (Universitas Negeri Makassar)
Firdaus (Universitas Negeri Makassar)
Nur Wahyuni Nengsi (Universitas Negeri Makassar)



Article Info

Publish Date
26 Aug 2026

Abstract

While technology-mediated distance education expands access, secondary geography instruction persistently grapples with diminished student engagement and superficial spatial processing. This study aims to develop and empirically validate the Interactive Technology-Based Engagement Model (ITEM), an integrative framework engineered to optimize Geo-TPACK and instructional effectiveness in distance geography learning. Grounded in a Design-Based Research (DBR) paradigm, a sequential three-phase methodology was executed: (1) a PRISMA-guided systematic review of 47 peer-reviewed articles (2017–2024); (2) expert panel validation (n = 6, CVI = 0.91); and (3) a quasi-experimental pre-test–post-test pilot trial involving 42 Grade X students at SMAN 11 Maros, Indonesia. Thematic synthesis established four critical success factors: pedagogically aligned instructional design, multi-platform integration, participatory content delivery, and continuous formative feedback. Pilot testing demonstrated statistically significant enhancements in overall student engagement (d = 0.78, p < .001), with cognitive engagement yielding the most pronounced gain (d = 0.84), alongside substantial improvements in geography learning outcomes (d = 0.65, p < .001). Unlike generic e-learning models, the ITEM framework uniquely synthesizes constructivist geo-pedagogy with an equity-driven, offline-compatible contingency pathway designed for topographically constrained and broadband-blind regions. It provides a theoretically grounded blueprint for transforming passive distance instruction into interactive, context-responsive spatial learning.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

js

Publisher

Subject

Earth & Planetary Sciences Education

Description

Aim and Scope Future Space: Studies in Geo-Education Aim: The primary aim of Future Space: Studies in Geo-Education is to serve as an international forum for scholarly research, analysis, and dialogue concerning innovative methodologies, progressive practices, and transformative insights within the ...