The Effect of Digital Learning of Historical Comics on Students‘ Critical Thinking Skills

Abstract

Comics provide a visual, inventive, and sequential reading experience for students learning on their own. Both comics and history present narratives in chronological order. Students pay less attention to reading historical literature, requiring them to put more emphasis on their thinking skills. The author intends to determine how historical comic learning affects students’ critical thinking skills. This quasi-experimental mixed-method design included pre- and post-tests and interview group. A total of 184 students were divided evenly between two groups, each consisting of N=92 members: a control group and an experimental group. While members of the control group were taught to read textbooks through online instruction, members of the experimental group read historical comics learning media. The N-Gain test showed the treatment group’s critical thinking skills was 61.8% (Moderate) and the control group’s was 38.2% (Low). The ANOVA findings demonstrated a statistically significant relationship between historical comics learning media and critical thinking skills (F = 49.749; p = 0.000). The results indicate that using historical comics makes reading material more enjoyable, adds intrigue to stories, and improves students’ attention. In order to maximize critical thinking students’ skills, it is important to pay greater attention to the provision of engaging, interactive, and appropriate learning media.

E-Comic Based on SETS: A Digital Learning Media to Improve Student’s Character and Critical Thinking Skills

“…and look for solutions and learn various things they don't know yet. The findings of this study align with the research conducted by Setyowati et al (2023), which suggests that comics are efficacious in enhancing students' critical thinking abilities. (Azmy,et al 2020; Dini, et al 2023;Putri, et al 2018;Rahayu & Kuswanto, 2021;Shabrina & Kuswanto, 2018).…”

Development of E-Comic Learning Media Assisted by Video in Science Learning on Human Blood Circulation Material

“…Another study revealed that digital comic media could enhance learning outcomes, with results in cycle I at 61% and an increase in cycle II to 93% (Narestuti et al, 2021). The effectiveness of comic media in improving students' thinking skills is also supported by previous research by Setyowati et al (2023), which stated that the N-gain test results showed the critical thinking skills of the treatment group at 61.8% (medium) and the control group at 38.2% (low).…”