Biofun AR: Enhancing Primary Student's Engagement in Science Learning through Augmented Reality

Nita Prasyama Azhari; Fajar Ari Nugraha; Sumini; Asri Widowati

doi:10.26811/didaktika.v10i1.2085

Authors

Nita Prasyama Azhari Faculty Mathematics and Natural Science, Yogyakarta State University, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Fajar Ari Nugraha Faculty of Computer Science, Amikom University, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Sumini
Asri Widowati Yogyakarta State University https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3784-2952

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.26811/didaktika.v10i1.2085

Abstract

Student engagement is a critical factor in effective science learning, particularly when students encounter abstract concepts that are difficult to visualize. Low engagement often results in limited participation and weak conceptual understanding in primary science classrooms. This study aims to examine the effectiveness of BioFun AR, an augmented reality–based learning medium, in enhancing students’ behavioral, emotional, and cognitive engagement in science learning. The study employed a mixed-methods design combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. Quantitative data were collected using engagement questionnaires and cognitive tests administered before and after the learning intervention. Qualitative data were obtained through classroom observations and semi-structured interviews with teachers and first-grade students in Sukoharjo, Indonesia. The findings revealed a significant improvement in student engagement and learning outcomes after the implementation of BioFun AR. The average score increased from 72 in the pretest to 96 in the posttest, and the paired-samples t-test indicated a statistically significant difference (Sig. = 0.000 < 0.05) with a large effect size. Among the three dimensions of engagement, behavioral engagement showed the highest mean score, followed by emotional and cognitive engagement. Students demonstrated greater participation, enthusiasm, and persistence when identifying and explaining body parts and their functions through AR visualization. These results indicate that BioFun AR effectively supports interactive learning and enhances student engagement in primary science education.

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