The Effect of Using Interactive Multimedia-Based Biology Learning Media to Improve Critical Thinking Ability and Student Motivation at SMA Negeri 10 North Bengkulu

Abstract

Background: Critical thinking skills and learning motivation are essential for meaningful biology education. However, conventional teaching approaches often provide limited opportunities for active engagement, analytical reasoning, and independent learning. Interactive multimedia offers an alternative by integrating various digital elements to create engaging and student-centered learning experiences.

Research Gap: Although interactive multimedia has been increasingly incorporated into educational practices, empirical evidence examining its simultaneous effects on students’ critical thinking skills and learning motivation remains limited, particularly in biology education at SMA Negeri 10 Bengkulu Utara.

Novelty: This study simultaneously investigates the effectiveness of interactive multimedia-based biology learning media in enhancing two essential educational outcomes: critical thinking skills and learning motivation, providing context-specific empirical evidence for technology-supported biology instruction.

Methods: A quantitative quasi-experimental approach employing a pretest–posttest non-equivalent control group design was implemented. Two Grade X science classes participated as experimental and control groups. Data were collected through critical thinking assessments and learning motivation questionnaires. Statistical analyses included normality, homogeneity, and hypothesis testing using SPSS.

Results: The findings demonstrated statistically significant differences between the experimental and control groups in critical thinking skills (p = 0.014) and learning motivation (p = 0.047), with both significance values below the 0.05 threshold. These results support the effectiveness of interactive multimedia-based instruction in improving both educational outcomes.

Conclusion: Interactive multimedia-based biology learning media significantly enhance students’ critical thinking skills and learning motivation. Integrating interactive digital resources into biology instruction can support more engaging, participatory, and meaningful learning experiences.