The Effectiveness of Using Educaplay Media with a Deep Learning Approach to Improve Students' Critical Thinking Skills
Main Article Content
Abstract
Social studies subjects, which are only dominated by memorization and one-way lectures, make students passive and have difficulty relating to real life, so they require innovation in learning methods to optimize students' critical thinking skills. The purpose of this study is to determine the influence of the use of Educaplya media with a Deep Learning approach on students' thinking ability in elementary school. The method of this study is quantitative, with a Quasi Experimental Control Group Design approach. The subjects in this study were 44 grade VI students, which were divided into control and experimental classes. The data collection techniques carried out were observation, interviews, and tests. Data analysis used the Independent Sample t-test with the prerequisites of normality and homogeneity tests. The results of the Independent Sample t-test in the statistical test showed that the gain of sig values was 0.000 < 0.05 so that it can be stated that there is an influence of the use of Educaplay media on students' critical thinking skills. This study provides recommendations for educators in elementary schools to utilize technology with an approach that is in accordance with the needs and developments of the times. For example, Educaplay can be used as a support during the learning process.
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How to Cite
PUTRI, Candra Avista; HANIFAH, Nur Hidayah; SYAIFUDDIN, Ahmad.
The Effectiveness of Using Educaplay Media with a Deep Learning Approach to Improve Students' Critical Thinking Skills.
Proceeding of International Conference on Islamic Education (ICIED), [S.l.], v. 10, n. 1, p. 1292-1303, dec. 2025.
ISSN 2613-9804.
Available at: <https://conferences.uin-malang.ac.id/index.php/icied/article/view/3778>. Date accessed: 02 feb. 2026.
doi: https://doi.org/10.18860/icied.v10i1.3778.
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Articles
References
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Çavuş, E., İdil, Ş., & Dönmez, İ. (2025). Effects of a design-based research approach on fourth-grade students’ critical thinking, problem-solving skills, computational thinking, and creativity self-efficacy. International Journal of Technology and Design Education. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10798-025-09989-8
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Chukwuemeka, E. J., & Garba, M. (2024). Technology as a catalyst for learning and unlearning: A tool for navigating education in a dynamic society. European Journal of Interactive Multimedia and Education, 5(2), e02404. https://doi.org/10.30935/ejimed/15640
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Feri, M., Ismiati, N., Al-Nur, W. R., & Akbar, F. N. (2025). Implementing Deep Learning Approaches in Primary Education: A Literature Review. Jurnal VARIDIKA, 37(1), 178–194. https://doi.org/10.23917/varidika.v37i2.12151
Gazit, E., Yair, Y., & Chen, D. (2005). Emerging conceptual understanding of complex astronomical phenomena by using a virtual solar system. Journal of Science Education and Technology, 14(5–6), 459–470.
Govindasamy, P., Cumming, T. M., & Abdullah, N. (2024). Validity and reliability of a needs analysis questionnaire for the development of a creativity module. 637–652. https://doi.org/10.1111/1471-3802.12659
Goyibova, N., Muslimov, N., Sabirova, G., Kadirova, N., & Samatova, B. (2025). Differentiation approach in education: Tailoring instruction for diverse learner needs. MethodsX, 14, 103163. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mex.2025.103163
Hafeez, M. (2021). Systematic Review on Modern Learning Approaches, Critical Thinking Skills and Students Learning Outcomes. Indonesian Journal Of Educational Research and Review, 4(1), 167. https://doi.org/10.23887/ijerr.v4i1.33192
Kadbey, H., Dickson, M., & McMinn, M. (2015). Primary Teachers’ Perceived Challenges in Teaching Science in Abu Dhabi Public Schools. Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences, 186, 749–757. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sbspro.2015.04.055
Kovač, V. B., Nome, D. Ø., Jensen, A. R., & Skreland, L. L. (2025). The why, what and how of deep learning: critical analysis and additional concerns. Education Inquiry, 16(2), 237–253. https://doi.org/10.1080/20004508.2023.2194502
Kozanitis, A., & Nenciovici, L. (2023). Effect of active learning versus traditional lecturing on the learning achievement of college students in humanities and social sciences: a meta-analysis. Higher Education, 86(6), 1377–1394. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10734-022-00977-8
Lu, Z., Chiu, M. M., Cui, Y., Mao, W., & Lei, H. (2023). Effects of Game-Based Learning on Students’ Computational Thinking: A Meta-Analysis. Journal of Educational Computing Research, 61(1), 235–256. https://doi.org/10.1177/07356331221100740
Mao, Weijie, Cui, Yunhuo, Chiu, Ming M, & Lei, Hao. (2021). Effects of Game-Based Learning on Students’ Critical Thinking: A Meta-Analysis. Journal of Educational Computing Research, 59(8), 1682–1708. https://doi.org/10.1177/07356331211007098
Mardiana, N., Hamdu, G., & Aprilia, R. (2020). Pengembangan media digital dalam meningkatkan literasi sains siswa sekolah dasar. Jurnal Ilmiah Pendidikan Guru Sekolah Dasar, 7(1), 45–55.
Mukni’ah, M., Mudrikah, M., & Presbianti, Y. R. (2025). The development of game-based learning media by using educaplay to increase student motivation and participation. Research and Development in Education (RaDEn), 5(1 SE-Articles), 273–288. https://doi.org/10.22219/raden.v5i1.38809
Nadilah, P., Hakim, L., & Utomo, B. (2025). Efektivitas Media Educaplay Sebagai Game Edukasi Untuk Meningkatkan Kemampuan Berpikir Kritis Siswa Kelas V dalam Pembelajaran Tata Surya. Edukasiana: Jurnal Inovasi Pendidikan, 4(4), 1528–1538. https://doi.org/10.56916/ejip.v4i4.1953
Nasution, S. S., & Dea, M. (2025). Analisis Kesulitan Siswa Memahami Konsep Materi Pembelajaran IPAS Kelas V SDN 17 Pekanbaru. Jurnal Penelitian Ilmu Pendidikan Indonesia, 4(3), 1549–1554. https://doi.org/10.31004/jpion.v4i3.622
Ningrum, D. A. K., Ningrum, A. S. B., Indah, R. N., & Syaifulloh, B. (2025). Developing the Educaplay grammar assessment for tenth graders of senior high school in Kediri. Jurnal Inovasi Teknologi Pendidikan, 12(1), 82–91. https://doi.org/10.21831/jitp.v12i1.79346
Nur’aeni, A. P., Harianingsih, Avrilianda, D., & Ellinawati. (2025). Educaplay as an Interactive Digital Media for Students ’ HOTS Thinking on Living Things Material A . Introduction. 6(3), 1857–1872. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.51276/edu.v6i3.1309
Nurhayati, N., Karlimah, K., & Hamdu, G. (2025). The Use of Educaplay in Primary School Learning. Jurnal Cakrawala Pendas, 11(3), 557–567. https://doi.org/10.31949/jcp.v11i3.13451
Osterhaus, C., Koerber, S., & Sodian, B. (2017). Scientific thinking in elementary school: Children’s social cognition and their epistemological understanding promote experimentation skills. Developmental Psychology, 53(3), 450–462. https://doi.org/10.1037/dev0000260
Pan, Q., Zhou, J., Yang, D., Shi, D., Wang, D., Chen, X., & Liu, J. (2023). Mapping Knowledge Domain Analysis in Deep Learning Research of Global Education. In Sustainability (Vol. 15, Issue 4). https://doi.org/10.3390/su15043097
Ramadhani, A. (2025). Kendala dan Tantangan Pembelajaran IPA di UPT SD Negeri 064995 Kota Medan dalam Implementasi Kurikulum Merdeka. Jurnal Penelitian Ilmu Pendidikan Indonesia, 4(2), 1150–1155. https://doi.org/10.31004/jpion.v4i2.547
Ramadhani, S., & Maulana, H. (2019). Analisis kesulitan belajar IPA pada siswa sekolah dasar ditinjau dari pendekatan konseptual. Jurnal Pendidikan Dasar, 10(1), 33–41.
Saputra, A. R., Murti, R. C., & Hastuti, W. S. (2025). The Effect of Web-Based Interactive Learning Media on Critical Thinking Skills of Elementary School Students. Jurnal Prima Edukasia, 13(1), 159–168. https://doi.org/10.21831/jpe.v13i1.75228
Sudarmono, M. A., Hasan, & Halima. (2025). Deep Learning Approach in Improving Critical Thinking Skills of Elementary School Students. Jurnal Penelitian Pendidikan IPA, 11(8), 60–70. https://doi.org/10.29303/jppipa.v11i8.11708
Yasa, A. D., Kumala, F. N., Wibawa, A. P., & Hidayah, L. (2023). Evaluation of Creative Thinking Skills in the Development of Elementary Science Learning in Elementary Schools: A Mix Method Study. Journal of Education Research and Evaluation, 7(4), 559–568. https://doi.org/10.23887/jere.v7i4.68255
Akram, M., Zafar, J. M., Aziz, S., & Asghar, M. (2022). Elementary School Students’ Conceptual Difficulties in the Subject of General Science: A Descriptive Study. Pakistan Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences, 10(1), 43–49. https://doi.org/10.52131/pjhss.2022.1001.0172
Aktoprak, A., & Hursen, C. (2022). A Bibliometric and Content Analysis of Critical Thinking in Primary Education. Thinking Skills and Creativity, 44(1). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tsc.2022.101029
Arni, Y., Safitri, Y., Trisna, F., & Manurung, E. S. (2024). The Effect of Interactive Learning Media on Improving Students’ Critical Thinking Skills. ALACRITY: Journal of Education, 49–58. https://doi.org/10.52121/alacrity.v4i1.226
Bal, M., & Öztürk, E. (2025). The potential of deep learning in improving K-12 students’ writing skills: A systematic review. British Educational Research Journal, 51(3), 1295–1312. https://doi.org/10.1002/berj.4120
Bali, M. M. E. I., Santoso, F., & Yuliana, R. (2020). Inovasi media pembelajaran dalam meningkatkan hasil belajar dan motivasi belajar siswa sekolah dasar. Jurnal Pendidikan Dasar Nusantara, 5(1), 14–25.
Çavuş, E., İdil, Ş., & Dönmez, İ. (2025). Effects of a design-based research approach on fourth-grade students’ critical thinking, problem-solving skills, computational thinking, and creativity self-efficacy. International Journal of Technology and Design Education. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10798-025-09989-8
Chen, X., Wang, X., Wang, Y., Liu, D., & Zhang, W. (2025). Leveraging deep learning and graph analysis for enhanced course recommendations in online education. Scientific Reports, 15(1), 18623. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-02156-y
Chukwuemeka, E. J., & Garba, M. (2024). Technology as a catalyst for learning and unlearning: A tool for navigating education in a dynamic society. European Journal of Interactive Multimedia and Education, 5(2), e02404. https://doi.org/10.30935/ejimed/15640
Ennis, R. (1991). Critical Thinking: A Streamline Conception Robert Ennis.
Eshuis, E. H., ter Vrugte, J., & de Jong, T. (2022). Supporting reflection to improve learning from self-generated concept maps. Metacognition and Learning, 17(3), 691–713. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11409-022-09299-7
Feri, M., Ismiati, N., Al-Nur, W. R., & Akbar, F. N. (2025). Implementing Deep Learning Approaches in Primary Education: A Literature Review. Jurnal VARIDIKA, 37(1), 178–194. https://doi.org/10.23917/varidika.v37i2.12151
Gazit, E., Yair, Y., & Chen, D. (2005). Emerging conceptual understanding of complex astronomical phenomena by using a virtual solar system. Journal of Science Education and Technology, 14(5–6), 459–470.
Govindasamy, P., Cumming, T. M., & Abdullah, N. (2024). Validity and reliability of a needs analysis questionnaire for the development of a creativity module. 637–652. https://doi.org/10.1111/1471-3802.12659
Goyibova, N., Muslimov, N., Sabirova, G., Kadirova, N., & Samatova, B. (2025). Differentiation approach in education: Tailoring instruction for diverse learner needs. MethodsX, 14, 103163. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mex.2025.103163
Hafeez, M. (2021). Systematic Review on Modern Learning Approaches, Critical Thinking Skills and Students Learning Outcomes. Indonesian Journal Of Educational Research and Review, 4(1), 167. https://doi.org/10.23887/ijerr.v4i1.33192
Kadbey, H., Dickson, M., & McMinn, M. (2015). Primary Teachers’ Perceived Challenges in Teaching Science in Abu Dhabi Public Schools. Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences, 186, 749–757. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sbspro.2015.04.055
Kovač, V. B., Nome, D. Ø., Jensen, A. R., & Skreland, L. L. (2025). The why, what and how of deep learning: critical analysis and additional concerns. Education Inquiry, 16(2), 237–253. https://doi.org/10.1080/20004508.2023.2194502
Kozanitis, A., & Nenciovici, L. (2023). Effect of active learning versus traditional lecturing on the learning achievement of college students in humanities and social sciences: a meta-analysis. Higher Education, 86(6), 1377–1394. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10734-022-00977-8
Lu, Z., Chiu, M. M., Cui, Y., Mao, W., & Lei, H. (2023). Effects of Game-Based Learning on Students’ Computational Thinking: A Meta-Analysis. Journal of Educational Computing Research, 61(1), 235–256. https://doi.org/10.1177/07356331221100740
Mao, Weijie, Cui, Yunhuo, Chiu, Ming M, & Lei, Hao. (2021). Effects of Game-Based Learning on Students’ Critical Thinking: A Meta-Analysis. Journal of Educational Computing Research, 59(8), 1682–1708. https://doi.org/10.1177/07356331211007098
Mardiana, N., Hamdu, G., & Aprilia, R. (2020). Pengembangan media digital dalam meningkatkan literasi sains siswa sekolah dasar. Jurnal Ilmiah Pendidikan Guru Sekolah Dasar, 7(1), 45–55.
Mukni’ah, M., Mudrikah, M., & Presbianti, Y. R. (2025). The development of game-based learning media by using educaplay to increase student motivation and participation. Research and Development in Education (RaDEn), 5(1 SE-Articles), 273–288. https://doi.org/10.22219/raden.v5i1.38809
Nadilah, P., Hakim, L., & Utomo, B. (2025). Efektivitas Media Educaplay Sebagai Game Edukasi Untuk Meningkatkan Kemampuan Berpikir Kritis Siswa Kelas V dalam Pembelajaran Tata Surya. Edukasiana: Jurnal Inovasi Pendidikan, 4(4), 1528–1538. https://doi.org/10.56916/ejip.v4i4.1953
Nasution, S. S., & Dea, M. (2025). Analisis Kesulitan Siswa Memahami Konsep Materi Pembelajaran IPAS Kelas V SDN 17 Pekanbaru. Jurnal Penelitian Ilmu Pendidikan Indonesia, 4(3), 1549–1554. https://doi.org/10.31004/jpion.v4i3.622
Ningrum, D. A. K., Ningrum, A. S. B., Indah, R. N., & Syaifulloh, B. (2025). Developing the Educaplay grammar assessment for tenth graders of senior high school in Kediri. Jurnal Inovasi Teknologi Pendidikan, 12(1), 82–91. https://doi.org/10.21831/jitp.v12i1.79346
Nur’aeni, A. P., Harianingsih, Avrilianda, D., & Ellinawati. (2025). Educaplay as an Interactive Digital Media for Students ’ HOTS Thinking on Living Things Material A . Introduction. 6(3), 1857–1872. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.51276/edu.v6i3.1309
Nurhayati, N., Karlimah, K., & Hamdu, G. (2025). The Use of Educaplay in Primary School Learning. Jurnal Cakrawala Pendas, 11(3), 557–567. https://doi.org/10.31949/jcp.v11i3.13451
Osterhaus, C., Koerber, S., & Sodian, B. (2017). Scientific thinking in elementary school: Children’s social cognition and their epistemological understanding promote experimentation skills. Developmental Psychology, 53(3), 450–462. https://doi.org/10.1037/dev0000260
Pan, Q., Zhou, J., Yang, D., Shi, D., Wang, D., Chen, X., & Liu, J. (2023). Mapping Knowledge Domain Analysis in Deep Learning Research of Global Education. In Sustainability (Vol. 15, Issue 4). https://doi.org/10.3390/su15043097
Ramadhani, A. (2025). Kendala dan Tantangan Pembelajaran IPA di UPT SD Negeri 064995 Kota Medan dalam Implementasi Kurikulum Merdeka. Jurnal Penelitian Ilmu Pendidikan Indonesia, 4(2), 1150–1155. https://doi.org/10.31004/jpion.v4i2.547
Ramadhani, S., & Maulana, H. (2019). Analisis kesulitan belajar IPA pada siswa sekolah dasar ditinjau dari pendekatan konseptual. Jurnal Pendidikan Dasar, 10(1), 33–41.
Saputra, A. R., Murti, R. C., & Hastuti, W. S. (2025). The Effect of Web-Based Interactive Learning Media on Critical Thinking Skills of Elementary School Students. Jurnal Prima Edukasia, 13(1), 159–168. https://doi.org/10.21831/jpe.v13i1.75228
Sudarmono, M. A., Hasan, & Halima. (2025). Deep Learning Approach in Improving Critical Thinking Skills of Elementary School Students. Jurnal Penelitian Pendidikan IPA, 11(8), 60–70. https://doi.org/10.29303/jppipa.v11i8.11708
Yasa, A. D., Kumala, F. N., Wibawa, A. P., & Hidayah, L. (2023). Evaluation of Creative Thinking Skills in the Development of Elementary Science Learning in Elementary Schools: A Mix Method Study. Journal of Education Research and Evaluation, 7(4), 559–568. https://doi.org/10.23887/jere.v7i4.68255