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This study aims to analyze the improvement of Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) through mathematics learning on the Three-Dimensional Geometry topic in Grade XII of Yayasan Pendidikan Al-Fattah Medan. HOTS is a crucial aspect of 21st-century education because it helps students develop critical, creative, logical, and reflective thinking skills in addressing complex problems. In the context of mathematics learning, particularly in spatial geometry, mastering HOTS not only supports students in understanding abstract concepts but also in applying them to real-life situations. This study employed a descriptive qualitative method with instruments consisting of a pre-test, post-test, and an open-ended questionnaire to explore students’ understanding and learning experiences. The findings revealed a significant improvement, where the average pre-test score of 7 increased to 52.21 in the post-test. This result highlights that the implementation of HOTS-based learning strategies is effective in enhancing students’ comprehension of distance, angles, and point positions in space, while simultaneously strengthening their analytical, evaluative, and creative abilities. The study implies the importance of adopting innovative learning strategies oriented toward HOTS development to improve the quality of mathematics education and prepare students for global challenges.

This study is a literature review aimed at examining in depth the concepts, characteristics, learning difficulties, and applications of quadratic functions in secondary mathematics education. The research employs a qualitative approach by analyzing ten articles published between 2019 and 2025 from both national and international journals. The findings indicate that the quadratic function is a fundamental topic in the mathematics curriculum, playing a crucial role in developing higher-order mathematical thinking skills such as analysis, synthesis, and problem-solving. It also serves as a foundation for understanding more advanced topics such as calculus, analytic geometry, and optimization. However, various studies have found that students continue to face significant learning difficulties, including misconceptions related to the shape of the parabola graph, understanding the discriminant value, and connecting algebraic forms to real-world contexts. To address these issues, research suggests that technology-assisted learning—particularly through interactive software such as GeoGebra—has proven effective in enhancing conceptual understanding, motivation, and student engagement. Therefore, this review highlights the importance of strengthening conceptual understanding, applying contextual learning approaches, and integrating digital technology as innovative strategies for teaching quadratic functions at the secondary education level.

This research examines the effectiveness of using a repertoire class as a learning strategy in the Media Music course of the Film and Television Production Study Program at the Indonesian Institute of the Arts, Yogyakarta. The course, offered in the fourth semester, focuses on film music creation, mood development, and instrumental understanding. The study applies the Classroom Action Research method with the primary goal of improving students’ comprehension of film scoring components. Pre-cycle findings showed that students’ understanding was relatively low under previous teaching approaches. To address this, the repertoire class method was introduced. This strategy emphasises active learning through sound samples from various instruments, allowing students to directly experience and analyse how musical elements shape the mood of a film. The interactive design of this method provides not only theoretical insights but also practical, auditory experiences that deepen learning. The research was carried out in three CAR cycles, each evaluating student progress and adjusting strategies as needed. Results demonstrate a notable improvement in learning outcomes. The percentage of students achieving Excellent and Very Good categories increased significantly, while the number in the Poor category decreased. These findings confirm that repertoire classes, especially those incorporating instrumental sound samples, are highly effective in enhancing students’ understanding of the emotional dimension of film music. In conclusion, this approach enriches the learning experience and equips students with both technical knowledge and emotional sensitivity in film scoring. By integrating practice-based methods, the repertoire class proves to be a valuable strategy in media music education.

In education in the 4.0 era, teachers should pay attention to the strategies used in the learning process and also the technology coverage that helps to facilitate the application of learning so that the learning goals formulated are well achieved. Interactive learning strategies can support learning processes with the use of technology as a learning medium. In this paper, the author uses the study of literature (Library Research) by collecting data from various sources such as books, scientific journals, dissertations, and online sources related to the effectiveness of the use of technology in enhancing interactive learning strategies. Conclusion The interactive learning strategy is an approach that encourages students to think critically, share opinions, and conduct research on their own questions. The use of media and technology, such as video and animation, can also improve learning effectiveness. Video enables students to understand material better, while animation can arouse students' interest in learning.

Learning Islamic Religious Education (PAI) for some students is so unpleasant that it affects their interest in learning. One of the factors is that PAI learning strategies are still traditional, PAI teachers' teaching abilities/competence are still lacking, and PAI learning management strategies are not optimal. Efforts to increase PAI learning activities, PAI learning achievement, and make PAI a subject that students are interested in, the alternative is to change PAI learning strategies from traditional to progressive PAI learning strategies.

The development of information technology (IT) has made a significant contribution to the field of education, including at the junior high school level. This study aims to examine the implementation of information technology in the learning process of seventh-grade students at SMP Katolik St. Aloysius. The research method applied was descriptive qualitative, employing observation, teacher interviews, and student questionnaires. The findings indicate that the use of IT tools such as computers, LCD projectors, and online learning applications, particularly Google Classroom and WhatsApp Groups, has enhanced student learning motivation, facilitated easier access to learning materials, and strengthened interaction between teachers and students. Moreover, technology integration enables teachers to deliver more engaging and varied learning experiences, encouraging students to participate more actively in the classroom. Nevertheless, several challenges were identified, including limited school infrastructure, varying levels of digital literacy among students, and unequal internet access. These obstacles may hinder the effectiveness of IT implementation in the learning process. Therefore, continuous mentoring strategies, infrastructure improvement, and digital literacy training for both students and teachers are necessary. In conclusion, the implementation of information technology at SMP Katolik St. Aloysius has had a significant positive impact on the learning process but requires sustainable support and improvements to achieve optimal outcomes

Boredom during the learning process often becomes a significant barrier to students’ motivation and engagement, especially in vocational education settings. This phenomenon was also observed at SMKS Muhammadiyah 9 Medan, where some students demonstrated a lack of interest and active participation during learning activities. This study aims to analyze how the implementation of active learning strategies can reduce boredom and improve the quality of classroom interaction. A qualitative approach with a case study design was employed. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with teachers and students, direct classroom observations, and supporting documentation. The data were analyzed inductively using thematic analysis to identify emerging patterns, trends, and meanings from teaching practices. The findings reveal that the application of active learning strategies—such as group discussions, project-based learning, problem solving, and the use of interactive learning media—positively impacts the learning process. These strategies not only enhance participation and learning motivation but also foster collaboration among students, improve teacher–student communication, and develop critical and social thinking skills. Furthermore, the classroom atmosphere becomes more dynamic, enjoyable, and participatory, significantly reducing learning boredom. Therefore, active learning strategies are proven to be relevant and effective in creating engaging, interactive, and meaningful learning experiences for students at SMKS Muhammadiyah 9 Medan. This research provides practical implications for teachers in selecting appropriate learning approaches to achieve educational goals more effectively.

Islamic Religious Education (PAI) plays a crucial role in fostering good morals in students, enabling them to develop Islamic character and face the challenges of the times with strong spiritual values. However, the implementation of PAI teaching in the field often still prioritizes traditional lecture methods, which lead to less student participation, boredom, and less than satisfactory learning outcomes. This small study aims to explore the PAI learning models and strategies implemented by teachers at the Al-Hidayah Foundation, the challenges they face, and their impact on students. This study used a qualitative approach with a case study method through in-depth interviews with PAI teachers. The results revealed that teachers have begun to integrate lecture methods with more innovative learning strategies such as contextual, cooperative, and technology-based, although their implementation has not always been consistent. The main challenges faced include limited infrastructure, a lack of professional training for teachers, and low learning motivation among some students. The visible impact is increased student engagement in the learning process when innovative strategies are implemented, although their effectiveness still needs to be strengthened with support from the institution and parents. Therefore, the Islamic Religious Education teachers at the Al-Hidayah Foundation not only function as teachers, but also as motivators and facilitators in the learning process to ensure that the goals of Islamic education can be achieved properly.

This study aims to analyze the learning difficulties experienced by fifth-grade students at Yayasan Al-Hidayah and identify innovative solutions in the learning process. The research uses a descriptive quantitative method with data collected through questionnaires. The results indicate that students still face challenges in understanding the material, primarily due to the fast pace of the teacher's explanations, a lack of supporting media and teaching aids, and limited learning facilities. The most difficult subjects for students to understand are Mathematics, followed by English and Science. Despite these challenges, parental involvement in supporting the learning process is relatively good, and students tend to prefer interactive learning, such as educational games, group discussions, experiments, and the use of digital media. Based on these findings, there is a need for innovation in learning, focusing on technology-based learning, the use of more varied teaching aids, and the application of creative strategies to enhance motivation, understanding, and student learning outcomes. Such innovations are expected to provide more engaging and effective learning experiences for students, addressing the difficulties they encounter in learning.

This study focuses on how the use of Student Worksheets (LKPD) can support the Islamic Religious Education (PAI) learning process at MIS Al-Hidayah. Using a qualitative approach, researchers explored the experiences of teachers and students through interviews, observations, and documentation. The results indicate that LKPD equipped with visual media can create a more engaging learning environment, motivate students, and facilitate their understanding of the material. Teachers design LKPD with pictures and sequential steps, enabling students to be more active and able to learn independently or in groups. Despite obstacles, such as limited time for development and incomplete school facilities, teacher creativity and collaboration with colleagues proved key to success. These findings confirm that LKPD can be an effective learning tool, not only for improving cognitive understanding but also for instilling Islamic values ​​in students. This study also has implications for the development of PAI learning strategies in madrasah-based elementary schools. Thus, the innovative use of LKPD can become a sustainable learning model to improve the quality of Islamic education in the future.

This study was motivated by the need to improve the quality of Islamic Religious Education (IRE) learning so that it does not only focus on delivering material but also encourages students to actively build understanding through higher-order thinking processes. Traditional teacher-centered learning tends to limit students' analytical, evaluative, and creative abilities. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the use of Active Learning in IRE and its relationship with the development of Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS). The method used was library research with a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach, which involved identifying, selecting, and synthesizing various relevant literature from the last ten years. The results of the study showed that Active Learning was implemented through various strategies such as problem-based learning, project-based learning, think-pair-share, the use of digital technology, and collaborative discussions. These strategies shift the focus of learning from the teacher to the students so that they can construct knowledge through dialogue, reflection, and problem solving. The findings also show that this approach has a direct influence on the development of HOTS, especially the ability to analyze religious issues, evaluate arguments based on arguments, and create contextual solutions in learning situations. In addition to improving cognitive abilities, Active Learning has an impact on increasing learning motivation, courage to ask questions, active involvement, and the quality of students' social interactions. The implications of this study confirm that PAI learning needs to integrate Active Learning strategies.

This study aims to analyze the implementation of creative learning among lower-grade students at SDS Parulian 2 Medan. The research employed a descriptive qualitative method with data collected through observation and questionnaires. The subjects were 51 students from grades II and III. The observation results indicate that teachers still tend to use conventional methods; however, students appeared more enthusiastic when the lessons were accompanied by creative activities such as educational games, quizzes, and the use of concrete media. The questionnaire findings support this, showing that 66.1% of students expressed liking creative learning, 17.6% stated it was average, and 16.3% reported less interest. The combined average score of 2.49 indicates that students’ interest in creative learning is at a moderate to high level. These findings highlight that the application of simple creative strategies can provide more enjoyable and meaningful learning experiences for elementary students. The study recommends that teachers optimize the use of media and varied methods to make learning more engaging and aligned with students’ developmental needs.

Biology education in high school has an important role in shaping students' science literacy and critical thinking skills. However, ecological material, particularly the topic of Ecosystem Components and their Interactions, is often considered difficult because it is abstract and not easy to observe directly. This research aims to improve student learning outcomes through the application of the Problem Based Learning (PBL) model, which emphasizes real problem-solving, collaborative discussion, and active involvement in the learning process. The research uses the design of Classroom Action Research (PTK) which was carried out in two cycles in class X of St. Rosa de Lima Catholic High School Tondano involving 10 students in the odd semester of the 2025/2026 school year. Data was collected through observation of teacher and student activities, learning outcome tests in the form of pretests and posttests, and learning documentation. The analysis was carried out descriptively, qualitatively, and quantitatively by calculating the average score, percentage of completion, and student involvement. The results of the study showed a significant increase. The percentage of teacher activity increased from 58.3% in the first cycle to 87.5% in the second cycle, while student activity increased from 45.83% to 83.33%. The average score of students also increased from 70% in cycle I to 90% in cycle II, with classical completeness reaching 90%. These findings confirm the effectiveness of PBL as a contextual Biology learning strategy, able to bridge ecological concepts with real life, and increase students' curiosity, cooperation, and critical thinking skills.

Learning style theories have long been used to understand individual differences in learning processes. Models such as VAK (Visual, Auditory, Kinesthetic) and Multiple Intelligences offer frameworks for adapting instructional strategies to students’ preferences. However, these approaches have been criticized for their reductionism and limited empirical validity, often neglecting the holistic nature of human learning. In contrast, the Islamic concept of fitrah provides a more comprehensive perspective, encompassing intellectual, spiritual, moral, and emotional dimensions in an integrated manner. This conceptual article aims to analyze and integrate Western learning style theories with Islamic perspectives to develop a more holistic learning paradigm. Through an extensive literature review and theoretical analysis, the article proposes an integrative model that bridges empirical approaches with spiritual values. Theoretically, this integration enriches academic discourse by connecting two distinct knowledge traditions. Practically, it offers a framework for educators and institutions to design adaptive learning processes that address learner diversity while fostering spiritual and moral development.

The Ar-Royyan Islamic boarding school is a multi-level Islamic educational institution with a focus on preparing graduates who are ready to synergize with the society. To attain this objective, it is imperative to have educational personnel well-versed in the field of information technology. One strategic approach involves training Ustadz and prospective Ustadz through digital learning innovations. Open Broadcast Software (OBS) emerges as an innovative choice for crafting learning materials because it supports various media sources and offers user-friendly settings. Participants can combine video recordings, video from cameras, text, images, sound, and so on the types of input received. The resulting output manifests in the form of the videos available in common formats such as MKV, MOV, FLV, MP4, and MPEG-TS. Evaluation was conducted using a pre-test and post-test, consisting of a response questionnaire and Likert scale. The results indicate an enhanced understanding of OBS among participants, employed in the creation of digital learning media. The majority of participants responded positively to the conducted activities. Several elements that need attention in promoting the use of OBS for learning media creation include color selection, motivational delivery, and effective word choice. Combining OBS with other editing applications can yield unique variations of learning media, incorporating elements such as images, sound, video, and other supported media editing applications

The study used a pseudo-experimental design with a posttest-only control group design pattern. The population included the entire class VII, and the sample was randomly selected of two equivalent parallel classes, totaling 22 students each. The experimental class received the discovery learning treatment, while the control class used conventional methods. The research instrument is in the form of learning outcome tests in the form of objectives and essays that have been tested for validity and reliability. Data were analyzed through normality test, homogeneity test, and t-test of two independent samples at a significance level of 0.05. The results showed significant differences between the two groups. The average posttest score of the experimental class was 80.68 higher than the control class of 72.72. The analysis of the t-test yielded a t_hitung value of 2.74 greater than t_tabel 2.01, which means that the null hypothesis was rejected. The frequency distribution in the experimental class also showed a concentration of scores in the high category, while the control class was more dominant in the medium category. These findings confirm that discovery learning not only improves cognitive learning outcomes, but also encourages students' active engagement, motivation, and critical thinking skills. This study concludes that the implementation of discovery learning is effective in improving science learning outcomes in the classification of living things. Implicitly, teachers are advised to integrate this approach as an alternative to student-centered science learning strategies.

This study examines the practice of project-based procedural text learning in seventh grade at SMP Negeri 4 Cilacap in the context of the implementation of the Independent Curriculum. The approach used was qualitative with a case study method through participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The results showed that teachers implemented contextual and project-based learning strategies by utilizing digital media and integrating the values ​​of the Pancasila Student Profile. Students demonstrated active involvement in learning activities, especially in the creation of video tutorials and procedural posters. However, there were still obstacles in the form of teachers' limited understanding of the application of learning differentiation and formative assessment, as well as a lack of adequate digital infrastructure support. This study provides a theoretical contribution to the development of a more contextual and transformative Indonesian language learning model. Practically, these findings can serve as a reference for teachers and policymakers in designing learning strategies relevant to student needs and encouraging the use of innovative media to increase student participation and understanding, particularly in coastal areas.

Learning outcomes refer to the abilities that students possess after undergoing learning experiences, including their understanding and knowledge. This study examines the improvement of learning outcomes in Islamic Religious Education (PAI) by implementing differentiated instruction on the topic of Faith in the Messengers of Allah in Grade IV of SD Negeri 8 Limboto Barat, Gorontalo Regency. This research is a Classroom Action Research (CAR). Data collection techniques included observation, interviews, and documentation using research instruments such as teacher activity observation sheets, student activity observation sheets, tests, and student learning outcome sheets. The data analysis technique followed the procedures of classroom action research, employing both descriptive and quantitative analysis. The results of this study show that the implementation of differentiated instruction improved students' learning outcomes in the PAI subject on the topic of Faith in the Messengers of Allah. This improvement can be seen in the increase in teacher activity, which rose from 69% in Cycle I to 100% in Cycle II. Similarly, student learning activity increased from 56% in Cycle I to 83% in Cycle II. Student learning outcomes in PAI also improved significantly. In the pre-cycle phase, only 8 out of 20 students (40%) achieved mastery. This increased to 14 students (70%) in Cycle I with an average mastery score of 78.00, and further improved in Cycle II, with 19 students (95%) achieving mastery and an average score of 85.00.

This research aims to explore the teacher’s role in implementing the inquiry-based learning method to enhance students' critical thinking skills in Islamic Religious Education for grade XI AKL students at SMKS YPKP TIK Sentani. A qualitative descriptive approach was employed in this study. Data were collected through observations, interviews, and documentation. The findings reveal that teachers are crucial as planners, facilitators, and motivators in the implementation of inquiry-based learning. Key supporting factors include adequate facilities, infrastructure, and a relevant curriculum. The application of the inquiry learning method effectively improves students’ critical thinking skills by fostering activeness and learning independence. This method encourages students to explore, question, and engage with the material, leading to better understanding and application of the content. The study's implications highlight the importance of innovative teaching methods in Islamic Education and provide valuable insights for teachers seeking to improve the quality of learning and student engagement. This research is expected to serve as a reference for Islamic Education teachers in applying effective teaching strategies.

This paper aims to examine in depth the application of the behaviorist learning theory proposed by Edward Lee Thorndike in the learning process of Catholic Religious Education. Thorndike emphasized that the learning process occurs through the relationship between stimuli and responses, which are strengthened through repeated practice and reinforcement. This reinforcement can be in the form of awards such as praise and prizes, or punishments that function to strengthen or weaken certain responses. In this study, the author also describes in detail the basic laws in Thorndike's theory which are the foundation for implementing the behaviorist approach in teaching and learning activities. Furthermore, this theory can be applied practically in Catholic Religious Education learning by providing appropriate stimulus and reinforcement to students through directed learning activities. The stimulus and reinforcement have the potential to encourage changes in attitudes and behavior in a more positive direction, in accordance with the values ​​of the Catholic faith. Therefore, teachers as learning facilitators need to develop learning strategies that are planned, structured, and able to shape students' character and faith comprehensively and continuously.