Integrated Science Education Journal

Development and Validation of Microbiology and Parasitology Laboratory Manual for Science Education

2025-05-30T10:09:49+07:00

Purpose of the study: This study aimed to develop and validate a Microbiology and Parasitology Laboratory Manual specifically designed for Science Education students, in alignment with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Memorandum Order No. 75, series of 2017. The manual seeks to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application through structured, inquiry-based laboratory activities that cultivate scientific skills, promote critical thinking, and reinforce adherence to laboratory safety protocols.

Methodology: The validation process was conducted in two phases. First, subject matter experts in microbiology, parasitology, and science education evaluated the manual based on content accuracy, instructional clarity, relevance, alignment with CHED competencies, and pedagogical soundness. Their feedback was systematically integrated to enhance the manual’s quality. Second, pilot testing was conducted with science education students to assess usability, engagement, and impact on learning outcomes. Data were collected through expert validation checklists, student perception surveys, and performance assessments during laboratory sessions.

Main Findings: Findings revealed that the manual was highly satisfactory across all validation criteria. Quantitative and qualitative results from pilot implementation demonstrated significant improvements in students’ comprehension of microbiological and parasitological concepts, laboratory competencies, and overall engagement.

Novelty/Originality of this study: This study offers a discipline-specific, standards-aligned laboratory manual developed for teacher preparation, filling a critical gap in localized instructional materials. It emphasizes not only scientific content but also the pedagogical approaches needed for future educators, contributing to quality enhancement in science teacher education.

Factors Influencing Farmers’ Interest in Using Trichoderma sp. for Chili Cultivation in Giritirto Village, Gunung Kidul

2025-06-24T17:50:10+07:00

Purpose of the study: This study aims to identify and analyze the internal and external factors that influence farmers’ interest in using Trichoderma sp. as a biological control agent for chili cultivation in Giritirto Village, Purwosari Subdistrict, Gunung Kidul.

Methodology: This study used a quantitative approach with purposive and random sampling methods. Data were collected through observation, interviews, questionnaires, and documentation. Instrument testing employed Microsoft Excel. Data analysis included validity and reliability tests, classical assumption tests, and multiple linear regression using SPSS software to assess the influence of various independent variables.

Main Findings: The study found that farmers' interest in using Trichoderma sp. was generally high. Among the factors examined, the role of extension workers and the availability of facilities and infrastructure had a significant positive effect on farmers' interest. In contrast, age, education level, and farming experience did not have a significant influence on their interest in adopting Trichoderma sp..

Novelty/Originality of this study: This study uniquely explores the socio-demographic and institutional factors influencing farmers’ interest in adopting Trichoderma sp., which has rarely been addressed in previous research. It provides new insights into the human dimension of sustainable agriculture adoption, offering practical implications for policy and extension strategies to promote environmentally friendly farming practices.

Techno-economic Analysis of Investment and Operation of Photovoltaic Panels under a Load Sharing Scheme

2025-05-31T16:41:48+07:00

Purpose of the study: This study aims to evaluate the techno-economic feasibility of the operational period of a 40 kWp on-grid Photovoltaic Panel with a load sharing scheme at Ella Skincare, focusing on technical analysis, investment and operational costs, and the potential for electricity cost savings.

Methodology: This study used a quantitative method by analyzing energy consumption data and electricity bills over 6 months before and 6 months after installing the Photovoltaic Panel. The system used 60 Vertex TSM-DE21 panels and a Solis S5-GC50K inverter. The data were processed to calculate the Net Present Value (NPV), Return on Investment (ROI), Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE), and Payback Period (PP).

Main Findings: The research results showed a 33.9% reduction in PLN electricity power consumption and more than 30% savings in electricity costs each month after the installation of the Photovoltaic Panel. Although the NPV had not yet exceeded the initial investment, the ROI reached 13.64% in the first year, indicating significant financial potential in the long term.

Novelty/Originality of this Research: This study provides empirical evidence on the effectiveness of the load sharing scheme in improving efficiency and reducing operational electricity costs in the commercial sector. This study offers new insights into the investment feasibility of Photovoltaic Panels in Indonesia, particularly in the context of utilizing renewable energy to reduce dependence on conventional energy sources.

A Descriptive Study of Plant Physiology Practicum Activities

2025-05-30T17:48:55+07:00

Purpose of the study: This study aims to describe the practicum activities carried out in the Plant Physiology practicum activities of the Biology Education Tadris Laboratory, IAIN Batusangkar.

Methodology: This descriptive study combines the accuracy of numerical data and a more profound understanding through observation and interviews. The population in this study were all students who took the plant physiology practicum course in the odd semester of 2019, totaling 96 people and six laboratory assistants. Data collection consisted of quantitative data collection using questionnaires and qualitative data through interviews and observations. Quantitative data analysis was carried out using the average percentage score for each activity. Furthermore, qualitative data analysis from observations and interviews was carried out by bringing up themes and information patterns from practicum activities to support quantitative data.

Main Findings: Data analysis indicates that the practicum activities have been executed efficiently, evidenced by a planning score of 80.56 and an implementation score of 79.42. Additionally, the score for follow-up activity was 93.66. The overall average percentage of practicum activity execution was 84.55, indicating good category.

Novelty/Originality of this study: The activities of the practicum are detailed in this article, including planning, implementation, and follow-up. In order to generate comprehensive data, the analysis employs descriptive methods that are supplemented by observational data. Research data was collected from all parties involved in the practicum activities, including students, practicum assistants, and laboratory assistants. In contrast to other researchers who exclusively employ qualitative data with samples of practicum participants.

Revolutionizing Science Learning: A CRT Based E-Module Integrating Javanese Gamelan to Foster Critical Thinking

2025-06-04T17:23:07+07:00

Purpose of the study: Developing an e-module based on Culturally Responsive Teaching integrated with Javanese gamelan on the material of wave vibrations for grade eight junior high school, to train students’ critical thinking skills and increase the relevance of learning to local culture. Based on the low level of students’ critical thinking skills, it can be seen in the 2022 PISA results with an average score of 383.

Methodology: Research and Development with a 4-D development model (define, design, develop, disseminate). The study involved expert validation, limited trials, and field trials on students of Junior high school 6 Ngawi. Data were collected through critical thinking ability tests, student and teacher response questionnaires, and statistical tests using SPSS and Microsoft Excel.

Main Findings: The e-module is feasible and effective for training students' critical thinking skills. Independent sample t-test revealed significant differences between the experimental and control groups, with the percentage of the practicality questionnaire reaching 90%, indicating a positive response from students and teachers to the e-module.

Novelty/Originality of this study: The uniqueness of this research lies in the integration of physics concepts with local wisdom of Javanese gamelan in an interactive e-module. The Culturally Responsive Teaching model allows learning to be more contextual, interesting, and relevant for students, while contributing to cultural preservation through science education.

Development of Augmented Reality (AR) Media to Improve Learning Outcomes on Earth Structure for Eighth Grade Students

2025-06-04T18:19:33+07:00

Purpose of the study: This study aims to develop Augmented Reality (AR)-based learning media on the topic of Earth structure and its development to improve the learning outcomes of eighth-grade students.

Methodology: The research employed a Research and Development (R&D) method using the 4D development model (Define, Design, Develop, Disseminate). The media was validated by media, content, and language experts. Practicality testing involved 25 students from MTsN 9 Ngawi and one science teacher. Effectiveness was tested through an independent sample t-test between the experimental and control groups.

Main Findings: The AR media developed was deemed highly feasible with validation scores: 86% (media), 92% (content), and 95% (language). Practicality received scores of 96% from the teacher and 84% from students. The t-test showed a significant difference (p < 0.001) between the learning outcomes of the experimental and control groups.

Novelty/Originality of this study: This study confirms that AR technology effectively improves students’ understanding of Earth structure concepts through interactive visualizations. It also boosts learning motivation and can be used independently both inside and outside the classroom. However, successful implementation requires adequate infrastructure and teacher training.

Integrating Local Wisdom in E-LKPD: Enhancing Students' Critical Thinking Skills

2025-06-04T19:43:20+07:00

Purpose of the study: This study aims to develop E-LKPD based on CTL containing local wisdom of Ngawi with the help of the liveworksheet website to train students’ critical thinking skills.

Methodology: The research design used by the researcher is R&D research. The development procedure used is the 4D development model (Define, Design, Develop, Disseminate). The trial subjects were class VII D, VII E, and teachers at MTs Negeri 9 Ngawi.

Main Findings: The results of the study showed that the CTL-based E-LKPD had high feasibility, with validation results from material experts of 91% (very feasible), language experts of 76.3% (feasible), and media experts of 91.7% (very feasible). Practicality tests from students and teachers showed positive responses with a very practical category (95% and 91.4%). In addition, the analysis of effectiveness based on learning outcomes showed a significant increase in critical thinking skills of students in the experimental class compared to the control class (p value <0.05).

Novelty/Originality of this study: E-LKPD integrates Ngawi’s local wisdom, namely Seloondo tourism as a learning resource, so that it not only improves students’ critical thinking skills, but also instills ecological awareness and local culture. In addition, the use of the Liveworksheet website makes E-LKPD more interactive, flexible, and innovative than conventional LKPD.

The Influence of the STEAM Method on the Cognitive Ability of Logical Critical Creative Thinking in Children Aged 5-6 Years

2025-06-05T00:48:57+07:00

Purpose of the study: This study aims to compare the effect of the STEAM method with conventional methods in supporting the development of logical, critical, and creative thinking in children aged 5-6 years. The background of this study is based on the need for a learning approach that can develop high-level thinking skills from an early age, considering that conventional methods are deemed inadequate to support this development.

Methodology: The method used is quantitative research with a quasi-experimental approach. The research sample consisted of children aged 5-6 years in kindergarten, divided into two groups: the group using the STEAM method and the group using conventional learning methods. Data collection was conducted through tests assessing logical, critical, and creative thinking abilities before and after treatment.

Main Findings: The study's results showed that the application of the STEAM method significantly improved the logical, critical, and creative thinking skills in children aged 5-6 years compared to conventional learning methods. The group using the STEAM method experienced a higher increase in scores on the three aspects of thinking.

Novelty/Originality of this study: The discussion in this study confirms that integrating the STEAM method into kindergarten learning can be a practical innovation for developing high-level thinking skills in early childhood. This study implies that educators and policymakers should consider the broader application of the STEAM method in early childhood education as a means to prepare a generation that can think logically, critically, and creatively from an early age.

The Interactive Electronic Book Learning Media: Social Science Learning Motivation of Students

2025-06-05T01:54:04+07:00

Purpose of the study: This study aims to develop, validate, and evaluate the effectiveness of Interactive Electronic Book Media—referred to as Bukelin—to enhance student motivation in learning IPAS (Ilmu Pengetahuan Alam dan Sosial) among fifth-grade elementary school students

Methodology: The research adopts the Research and Development (R&D) approach, utilizing the ADDIE model (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, Evaluation). The participants were Grade V students of Elementary School Lemberang, Banyumas. Data collection involved a combination of instruments, including tests, interviews, observations, questionnaires, and documentation to comprehensively assess feasibility and effectiveness.

Main Findings: The feasibility test results showed that the Interactive Electronic Book Media was well-received, with a 71% feasibility score from media experts (categorized as “eligible”) and a 90% score from material experts (categorized as “very feasible”). Effectiveness was measured through pretest and posttest scores, resulting in an N-gain value of 0.7096, indicating a high increase in student motivation. Students demonstrated improved engagement, enthusiasm, and autonomy during IPAS learning sessions with Bukelin.

Novelty/Originality of this study: Unlike conventional printed textbooks, Bukelin integrates interactive multimedia elements, including images, audio, and video, creating a dynamic, student-centered learning experience. This digital approach not only supports independent and active learning but also aligns with current technological trends in education. The study contributes to the limited research on multimedia integration in primary school contexts in Indonesia and offers a practical solution to enhance learning motivation through interactive digital tools. These findings suggest that well-designed digital media can significantly enrich the elementary learning experience.