Bagus Ardi Saputro

Achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) requires elementary science instruction that develops not only conceptual understanding but also students’ learning independence. However, previous studies have predominantly examined Outdoor Study and Problem-Based Learning as separate instructional approaches, leaving limited empirical evidence on their integrated application in elementary science education. This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of integrating Outdoor Study with Problem-Based Learning in supporting conceptual understanding and learning independence. A quasi-experimental pretest–posttest control group design was conducted at SD Negeri 3 Nglengkir (n = 19) and SD Negeri 2 Nglengkir (n = 17), Blora Regency, Indonesia. Data were collected using a conceptual understanding test and a learning independence questionnaire, analyzed using paired-samples t-tests, independent-samples t-tests, and MANOVA. The experimental group demonstrated significantly higher conceptual understanding and learning independence scores than the control group (p < .001). MANOVA also revealed a significant simultaneous difference between groups, Wilks' Λ = .241, F(2; 33) = 52.061, p < .001, partial η² = .759. These findings indicate that the integration of Outdoor Study and Problem-Based Learning offers a promising approach for strengthening science learning outcomes and learner autonomy. The study contributes empirical evidence for competency-oriented elementary science instruction aligned with SDG 4.

Enhancing conceptual understanding and critical thinking in elementary science requires meaningful learning experiences supported by appropriate instructional media. Examining the effects of integrating Deep Learning approaches and audiovisual media on students’ conceptual understanding and critical thinking was the primary aim of this study. A quantitative approach with a quasi-experimental matching-only design involved 30 fifth-grade students, comprising 15 students in the experimental group and 15 in the control group. Data were collected using conceptual understanding and critical thinking tests, with reliability coefficients of 0.84 and 0.86, respectively. Data analysis employed ANCOVA and MANCOVA. Results showed that the experimental group obtained higher posttest means in conceptual understanding (91.47) and critical thinking (89.72) than the control group (72.47 and 68.47). ANCOVA indicated significant effects on conceptual understanding, F(1,56) = 86.57, p < 0.01, η²p = 0.59, and critical thinking, F(1,56) = 72.43, p < 0.01, η²p = 0.56. MANCOVA also revealed a significant simultaneous effect, Pillai’s Trace = 0.68, F(2,56) = 58.72, p < 0.01, η²p = 0.68. Overall, integrating Deep Learning approaches with audiovisual media substantially improved both outcomes within the studied context.