Evaluating the Impact of Smart Learning-Based Inquiry on Enhancing Digital Literacy and Critical Thinking Skills

Abstract

The erosion of essential competencies required for the development of digital literacy and critical thinking skills in the 21st century-attributable to factors such as underutilization of the internet for educational purposes, students' limited abilities in digital operations, information gathering, communication, collaboration, and a deficiency in critical analysis or selection of information-necessitates innovative educational strategies. The smart learning-based inquiry (SLBI) strategy, an advancement from traditional inquiry methods, aims to deepen understanding of learning concepts and problem-solving through digital technology application. This research evaluated the efficacy of the SLBI strategy in augmenting students' digital literacy and critical thinking abilities. Employing a quasi-experimental design with pretest-posttest control groups, the study utilized critical thinking tests and digital literacy questionnaires for data collection. Instrument validity was assessed using the Karl Pearson moment product test formula, yielding r values ranging from 0.465 to 0.724 for the test instrument and 0.556 to 0.945 for the questionnaire. Reliability was verified through Cronbach's alpha, with r values of 0.945 for the test instrument and 0.805 for the questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were conducted to ascertain the strategy's effectiveness post-implementation. Results indicated that the SLBI strategy, encompassing six stages (orientation, conceptualization, investigation, designing digital reports, reflection, and publishing), significantly improved digital literacy (effect size 2.548, categorized as large) and critical thinking skills (effect size 1.504, also categorized as large) relative to traditional inquiry learning methods. These findings suggest that educators should consider incorporating SLBI strategies to enhance learning outcomes. Furthermore, the research opens avenues for future studies to explore the applicability of SLBI in fostering other competencies such as creative thinking, communicative skills, and learning motivation.