Jurnal Prima Edukasia
Vol. 14 No. 3 (2026): September 2026

Development of local wisdom-integrated science comics: Promoting conceptual understanding and cultural fortification

Rhyan Reksamunandar (IAIN Manado)
Mutmainah Mutmainah (IAIN Manado)
Dian Setiawati (IAIN Manado)
Sri Wulandari (IAIN Manado)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Sep 2026

Abstract

This research aims to develop science comic learning media based on North Sulawesi local wisdom on Earth's rotation and revolution topics for third-grade students at Islamic elementary schools. This research uses the Thiagarajan, Semmel and Semmel 4-D development model, which consists of the Define, Design, Develop, and Disseminate stages. Utilizing a quasi-experimental posttest-only non-equivalent control group design, this research was carried out involving 167 students across four state Islamic elementary schools in North Sulawesi Province, namely MIN 1 Manado, MIN 2 Manado, MIN 1 Bitung and MIN 1 Minahasa. Data were collected through post-tests (measuring science conceptual understanding and cultural understanding), questionnaires, observations, and interviews involving students and teachers. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, validity and reliability tests, independent t-tests and Cohen’s d effect size, while qualitative data from observations and interviews were analyzed thematically. The results of the feasibility test by media, material and language experts obtained good criteria. The results of product trials conducted by teachers and students obtained very good criteria. Based on the effectiveness test results, the developed comic learning media were found to be significantly effective in increasing students' science conceptual understanding and cultural understanding at islamic elementary school. This research contributes to the development of culturally responsive science learning media by integrating local wisdom into elementary-level science instruction. It offers an empirically tested alternative learning resource for islamic elementary schoolIt offers an empirically tested alternative learning resource for Islamic elementary schools within this specific educational and cultural context.

Copyrights © 2026