This research investigates using learning methods and teaching media on students’ critical thinking skills. The results of the test instruments given to class XI students at Public high school Cerme are that students have not yet mastered essential skills of thinking, including clarification, evaluation, analysis, interpretation, and inference in physics lessons regarding waves and their characteristics using the learning methods currently used by the teacher. Students’ concerns in answering questions lie in needing to be more optimal in understanding the concepts in the material, as well as using media and learning methods that are less effective. Guided inquiry learning relevant to open media can be an alternative solution to improve students’ critical thinking skills. In the future, digital media innovation, which is equipped with a guided inquiry learning model, will change the essential thinking skills of students at Public high schools in learning physics. This research is important in maximizing the application of technology in digital-based learning as innovative learning planning.