Development of Science Virtual Laboratory Integrated with Local Potential of Kotagede Silver Crafts to Improve Critical Thinking Skills and Learning Independence

Abstract

This research aims to develop a virtual science laboratory integrated with the local potential of Kotagede silver crafts as an interactive learning medium and to examine its practicality and effectiveness in improving critical thinking skills and learning independence. The development used ADDIE model: Analyze, Design, Develop, Implement, and Evaluate. The analysis covered preliminary, student, curriculum, and concept. The planning stage produced a criterion-referenced test, product outline, storyboard, and virtual laboratory design. The development stage included product development, validation by three lecturers and two practitioners, and a readability test. The implementation involved empirical testing and a field trial, with evaluation at each stage. Product feasibility was analyzed using mean scores converted into a four-point scale. Trial subjects were selected through cluster random sampling. The field trial applied a nonequivalent pretest-posttest control group design with 33 students in the experimental class and 34 in the control class from a junior high school in Yogyakarta. Readability, practicality, and feasibility were measured using average percentages, while effectiveness was tested with an effect size. Results showed that the virtual science laboratory was 80.2% feasible (very good), practical for classroom use, and effective in improving critical thinking and students learning independence.