Systematic Analysis of the Use of Socio Scientific Issues-Oriented Mobile Learning as a Science Learning Media to Improve the Critical Thinking Skills of Elementary School Students

Euis Lidya Wati; Ika Lestari; Firmanul Catur Wibowo

doi:10.51276/edu.v7i2.1657

Authors

Euis Lidya Wati Universitas Negeri Jakarta
Ika Lestari Universitas Negeri Jakarta
Firmanul Catur Wibowo Universitas Negeri Jakarta

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51276/edu.v7i2.1657

Keywords:

Critical Thinking Skills , Elementary Science Education , Mobile Learning , Socio-Scientific Issues

Abstract

This study systematically analyzes the implementation of socio-scientific issues–oriented mobile learning to foster elementary students’ critical thinking in science. A Systematic Literature Review following the PRISMA protocol with qualitative synthesis examined ten peer-reviewed articles (2021–2025) meeting strict inclusion criteria. Selected studies integrated mobile learning with socio-scientific issues in elementary science and explicitly measured critical thinking. Findings show consistent moderate-to-high improvement, with N-Gain scores ranging from 0.59 to 0.80. Implementations were mainly associated with problem-based learning combined with guided inquiry. Effective designs integrated interactive multimedia, augmented reality, and Android-based platforms to enable flexible, ubiquitous learning. Frequently addressed issues included environmental pollution, food waste management, and local ecosystem conservation, providing authentic contexts for multi-perspective analysis. Overall, the review confirms that socio-scientific issues–oriented mobile learning is a promising pedagogical approach for promoting higher-order thinking in elementary science, while highlighting the need for adequate technological infrastructure and strong teacher digital competence to ensure effective implementation.

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Author Biographies

Euis Lidya Wati, Universitas Negeri Jakarta

She was born in Tangerang on July 11, 1997. She completed her bachelor’s degree in Elementary School Teacher Education at Jakarta State University and is currently pursuing a Master of Education degree at the same institution.

Ika Lestari, Universitas Negeri Jakarta

She was born in Jakarta on February 27, 1984. She is a lecturer in the Elementary School Teacher Education (PGSD) Study Program at Universitas Negeri Jakarta (UNJ) with expertise in Educational Technology and Communication.

Firmanul Catur Wibowo, Universitas Negeri Jakarta

He was born in Jepara on April 27, 1987. He is a lecturer and researcher in the Department of Physics Education at Universitas Negeri Jakarta (UNJ).

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