Integration of Madura Local Wisdom in Contextual Science Learning to Improve Students^ Science Literacy and Critical Thinking Skills
Mochammad Yasir1, Mochammad Ahied2, Sofiatun3, Eva Agustintias4

Science Education Study Program, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Trunojoyo Madura

Abstract

Science learning in secondary schools often remains theoretical and detached from students^ real-life experiences, resulting in low levels of scientific literacy and critical thinking skills. One relevant solution is integrating Madurese local wisdom into contextual science learning, as it provides culturally meaningful knowledge, practical applications, and connections to students^ daily lives. This study aimed to develop and examine the effectiveness of a science learning model based on Madurese local wisdom in enhancing students^ scientific literacy and critical thinking skills. The research employed a quasi-experimental design with a pretest-posttest control group. Participants were 60 junior high school students in Pamekasan Regency, divided into an experimental and a control class. Instruments consisted of a scientific literacy test and a critical thinking test, with data analyzed using t-tests and N-gain. Findings revealed significant improvements in the experimental group compared to the control group. The average N-gain for scientific literacy in the experimental class was 0.72 (high), while the control class achieved only 0.41 (medium). For critical thinking skills, the experimental class reached 0.69 (high), surpassing the control class at 0.36 (medium). T-test results confirmed significant differences between groups (t = 4.87, p < 0.05 for scientific literacy- t = 5.12, p < 0.05 for critical thinking). The study concludes that contextual science learning grounded in local wisdom is effective in improving both scientific literacy and critical thinking. Its broader implication is the necessity of developing curricula rooted in regional potential as a dual strategy: advancing scientific literacy while simultaneously preserving cultural heritage.

Keywords: Madurese local wisdom- contextual science learning- scientific literacy- critical thinking

Topic: Sciences Education and STEM Education