Android-Based Media for Enhancing Critical Thinking in Elementary Science: A Systematic Review

M. Jazuri; Mintarsih Arbarini; Bambang Subali; Nuni Widiarti

doi:10.51276/edu.v7i1.1355

Authors

M. Jazuri Universitas Negeri Semarang
Mintarsih Arbarini Universitas Negeri Semarang
Bambang Subali Universitas Negeri Semarang
Nuni Widiarti Universitas Negeri Semarang

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51276/edu.v7i1.1355

Keywords:

Android-Based Learning Media , Critical Thinking , Elementary Science , Systematic Literature Review (SLR)

Abstract

The rapid advancement of information technology has accelerated innovation in learning media, particularly in elementary science education where developing higher-order thinking is critical. This PRISMA-guided systematic literature review examines the effectiveness of Android-based learning media in enhancing elementary students’ critical thinking. Twenty-five peer-reviewed articles published between 2020 and 2025 were selected from Google Scholar, SINTA, and Scopus. Included studies comprised quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods designs and were appraised for quality. Findings show that Android-based media, including educational games, interactive multimedia, augmented reality applications, and e-modules generally improve engagement and learning outcomes. However, only about one third of the studies explicitly measured critical thinking indicators such as analysis, evaluation, and problem solving, revealing a persistent gap between technological innovation and cognitive assessment. The review highlights pedagogical integration, offline access, and teacher readiness as key factors. Overall, Android-based media present a flexible, accessible option for 21st-century elementary science education with implications for instructional design, policy, and future research.

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Author Biographies

M. Jazuri, Universitas Negeri Semarang

Was born in Kendal on September 28, 1984. He earned his bachelor’s degree from IAIN Walisongo Semarang in 2010. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Elementary Education at Universitas Negeri Semarang. M. Jazuri serves as a sixth-grade teacher at MIN Kota Semarang.

Mintarsih Arbarini, Universitas Negeri Semarang

Was born in Semarang on January 21, 1968. She completed her bachelor's degree in nonformal education at IKIP Semarang (now Universitas Negeri Semarang) and later earned her master's and doctoral degrees in education with a focus on nonformal education and digital literacy. She is a lecturer and Coordinator of the Master's Program in nonformal education at the Faculty of Education and Psychology, UNNES. Her research focuses on digital literacy and community education, and she supervises numerous research projects.

Bambang Subali, Universitas Negeri Semarang

Was born on December 27, 1975. He is a senior lecturer and Coordinator of the D3/S1 Physics Education Study Program at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Negeri Semarang (UNNES). His expertise lies in physics education and educational research. He has contributed numerous publications on educational methods and research statistics.

Nuni Widiarti, Universitas Negeri Semarang

Was born on October 28, 1978. She is a lecturer in the Chemistry Education Program at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Negeri Semarang (UNNES). Her expertise includes inorganic chemistry, catalysis, nanoparticles, and bioinorganic chemistry. She actively teaches, conducts research, and supervises students' theses.

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