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Social Studies (IPS) learning in elementary schools plays an essential role in developing students’ critical thinking skills and civic attitudes as part of 21st-century competencies. However, in practice, IPS learning is still commonly teacher-centered and lacks contextual learning experiences, resulting in low student engagement and limited development of higher-order thinking skills. This study aims to analyze the implementation of Project-Based Learning (PjBL) in IPS learning to enhance critical thinking skills and civic attitudes of grade VI students at SDN Prekbun. The research employed a qualitative approach with a case study design. Data were collected through classroom observations, semi-structured interviews with teachers, students, school principals, and parents, as well as documentation of learning activities. Data analysis was conducted using the interactive model of Miles and Huberman, including data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing and verification. The findings indicate that the implementation of PjBL effectively enhances students’ active participation, critical thinking skills in analyzing social issues, and civic attitudes such as responsibility, cooperation, and social awareness. Learning becomes more meaningful as students are directly involved in contextual, collaborative, and problem-based project activities. Despite these positive outcomes, several challenges were identified, including limited learning facilities, time management constraints, and variations in students’ confidence levels. This study implies that PjBL is an effective instructional model for strengthening character education and developing 21st-century skills in elementary social studies learning

This research was motivated by the relatively low level of student learning activities, indicated by limited participation in asking questions, answering, and expressing opinions during the learning process. In addition, some students showed low concentration and attention to the teacher’s explanations. The learning process was still teacher-centered, which reduced student activeness and affected learning outcomes. To address this problem, teachers need to apply learning methods that encourage student participation while improving learning outcomes. One method that can be applied, particularly in social studies subjects, is the Quiz Team learning method. This study aimed to determine the effect of the Quiz Team learning method assisted by Baambozle media on student activity and learning outcomes in social studies at MTsN 6 Tulungagung. The study used a quantitative approach with a quasi-experimental design, specifically a non-equivalent control group design. Data were collected through questionnaires, tests, and documentation. Questionnaires were used to measure student learning activity, while tests were used to assess learning outcomes. The sample consisted of 32 students in the control class and 32 students in the experimental class selected through purposive sampling. The results showed that the Quiz Team method assisted by Baambozle media significantly affected students’ activity and learning outcomes, indicated by a Sig. (2-tailed) value of 0.000 < 0.05. The findings imply that this method can enhance student activity and consequently improve learning outcomes.

Social Studies (IPS) learning at the elementary school level plays a strategic role in shaping students’ understanding of social, cultural, and economic life, as well as national values. This study aims to analyze the differences between the 2013 Curriculum and the Merdeka Curriculum in IPS learning, including planning, implementation, the use of methods and media, and the assessment of learning outcomes. The research employed a descriptive qualitative approach with a case study, collecting data from curriculum documents, lesson plans (RPP), syllabi, classroom observations, interviews with teachers and school principals, and student questionnaires. The results indicate that the 2013 Curriculum provides a clear learning structure, detailed lesson plans, and systematic material organization that facilitates teachers, but it is less flexible and less contextualized for students. In contrast, the Merdeka Curriculum emphasizes flexibility, relevance of content to the local context, innovative methods such as project-based learning and blended learning, as well as holistic assessment focusing on critical thinking skills, social literacy, and student character. The implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum can enhance students’ learning interest, active participation, understanding of social concepts, and social awareness; however, its effectiveness depends on teacher readiness, school support, facilities, and consistency in assessment. These findings suggest that selecting an appropriate IPS curriculum should consider a balance between structure and flexibility, content relevance, teacher competence, and supporting facilities.

In the era of globalization and rapid technological advancement, Indonesia’s indigenous culture faces various challenges that may gradually erode traditional values within society, particularly among the younger generation. Local cultural diversity represents a vital national asset that must be preserved and sustained through strategic efforts, one of which is education. Social studies education plays an important role in instilling students’ knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of local cultural diversity as an essential component of national identity. This article aims to examine the contribution of social studies education to the development of students’ character through respect for cultural diversity in their surrounding environment, the cultivation of tolerance, and the enhancement of cultural awareness. The study adopts a qualitative descriptive approach using a literature review methodology by analyzing relevant academic sources, including books, journal articles, and previous research findings. The results reveal that integrating local culture and indigenous knowledge into social studies learning can strengthen students’ social awareness, deepen their understanding of cultural values, and foster responsible, empathetic, and tolerant character traits. Moreover, the effectiveness of local culture–based social studies education is strongly influenced by the role of teachers as facilitators, motivators, and role models who provide contextual, relevant, and meaningful learning experiences for students.  

This study investigates (1) the impact of the Flipped Classroom model on students’ learning independence in Social Studies, (2) its effect on Social Studies achievement, and (3) its simultaneous influence on both variables among Grade VIII students at SMPN 10 Satap Liukang Tangaya. A quantitative approach was applied using a quasi-experimental method with a Non-Equivalent Control Group Design. The sample comprised 33 students, with 17 assigned to the experimental class and 16 to the control class. Data collection instruments included a learning independence questionnaire, Social Studies achievement tests, observation sheets, and documentation. The data were analyzed through descriptive statistics, normality and homogeneity tests, paired samples t-tests, independent samples t-tests, and MANOVA using SPSS. The findings reveal that the Flipped Classroom model significantly enhances students’ learning independence, as evidenced by independent samples t-test results (Sig. < 0.05). It also significantly improves Social Studies learning outcomes, indicated by higher posttest scores in the experimental class compared to the control class (Sig. < 0.05). Furthermore, MANOVA results confirm a significant simultaneous effect on both learning independence and achievement (Sig. < 0.05). These results demonstrate that the Flipped Classroom model effectively improves the overall quality of Social Studies instruction for Grade VIII students.

This study aims to identify and describe the teaching process of Social Studies (IPS) in third-grade elementary school through direct observation. The method used involved an observation sheet designed in accordance with the research objectives to collect information on teacher and student activities, the teaching approach applied, and the use of teaching materials. The research findings revealed that although students were less actively involved, the lecture technique was still the main method in teaching Social Studies in third-grade elementary school. However, the practice of interactive instructional strategies, such as group discussions, the effective use of suitable instructional media is believed to enhance learners’ participation and foster greater motivation in the learning process. Furthermore, a harmonious interaction between educators and students also plays a role in establishing a supportive and comfortable learning atmosphere. The main obstacles include limited teaching materials and limited learning time. This study concludes that teaching Social Studies at the elementary school level needs to utilize a variety of interesting techniques and teaching materials to increase learning efficiency and foster student interest. These results provide useful empirical data as a basis for evaluating and improving Social Studies teaching in third-grade elementary school, so that it is more appropriate to the characteristics and needs of students.

This study aims to explore and improve the quality of Social Studies (IPS) instruction at SD Negeri 04 Palembang by integrating interactive learning media and collaborative teaching strategies, especially in the “Map Layout” topic for fifth-grade students. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, the researchers gathered data through document analysis, conversations with teachers and students, as well as direct observation of learning activities. The findings show that the use of visual learning tools, cooperative group work, and contextual tasks related to students’ everyday environments helps make Social Studies lessons more engaging and meaningful. Simple interactive materials such as illustrated school layouts were shown to increase students’ participation and strengthen their understanding of spatial concepts. Overall, the integration of interactive media with collaborative learning approaches contributes to a more dynamic classroom atmosphere, supports deeper conceptual comprehension, and enhances students’ motivation to learn. This approach demonstrates strong potential for improving IPS learning outcomes in elementary education.  

Advances in digital technology provide numerous opportunities to improve the quality of education, particularly in Social Studies (IPS) learning at the elementary school level. One important innovation is the use of digital interactive map media that enables students to learn geography in a visual, engaging, and relevant way. However, in practice, IPS learning in elementary schools is still dominated by conventional methods that rely on static printed maps, resulting in low student motivation and suboptimal understanding of geographic concepts, particularly those related to the ASEAN region. This study aims to evaluate the impact of using digital interactive map media on learning motivation and understanding of ASEAN geographic concepts among elementary school students. This study uses a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach following the PRISMA 2020 procedure. The research findings indicate that consistent use of digital interactive map media can improve students' motivation in learning and their understanding of geographic concepts. Interactive visualizations encourage active engagement and enthusiasm, and help students better understand spatial concepts. Therefore, digital interactive maps can be an innovative and effective social studies learning option that aligns with the principles of the Independent Curriculum and the Pancasila Student Profile.

Social Studies (IPS) learning in elementary schools has tended to be theoretical and memorization-oriented, resulting in students being less able to connect the material with social and environmental realities. This study aims to examine the implementation of field projects as a contextual learning strategy in understanding the dynamics of humans, places, and the environment at the elementary school level. The research method used is a qualitative approach with literature studies, with data sources in the form of SINTA-indexed national journal articles, reputable international journals, and scientific books published in the last five to ten years. Analysis was carried out through literature selection, content analysis, and synthesis of findings. The results of the study indicate that field projects contribute to improving students' critical thinking skills, spatial understanding, social empathy, and ecological awareness. In addition, direct involvement in observation, interviews, and thematic project creation encourages students to see the relationship between humans, space, and the environment more holistically. The novelty of this study lies in the emphasis on the integration of field projects as an approach to elementary school social studies learning that unites social, geographical, and ecological aspects within the framework of the Independent Curriculum. These findings contribute to the development of project-based social studies learning models as well as practical recommendations for PGSD teachers in integrating field experiences into daily learning.

Education is a fundamental right that must be fought for by every child in the nation, and throughout its development, it continues to undergo innovations and evaluations toward better quality. One educational model that is growing in Indonesia is the boarding school system, which has its own characteristics, advantages, and challenges. This study aims to describe the social studies (IPS) teachers’ strategies in boarding school–based learning, the implementation of IPS learning within the boarding school environment, and the obstacles faced by IPS teachers at MTs Darul Hikmah. This research employs a qualitative approach with a case study design. The study was conducted at Pondok Modern Darul Hikmah Tulungagung, with seventh-grade students as research subjects. Data collection techniques included observation, interviews, and documentation. The results show several factors that influence the low effectiveness of IPS learning in boarding schools, including the dense institutional activity schedule that reduces students’ learning focus, teachers’ limited mastery of the subject matter and classroom management, and the dual curriculum implemented simultaneously within the institution. Efforts to improve IPS learning effectiveness include enhancing teacher discipline when entering and leaving the classroom, utilizing audio-visual learning media, and connecting learning materials with current issues to make the lessons more relevant and engaging. Furthermore, the study reveals several advantages of boarding school–based education, such as fostering students’ independence, developing social awareness, providing deeper religious instruction, and integrating both general and religious education. Thus, IPS learning in boarding schools has the potential to develop more optimally with the support of appropriate learning strategies and more structured institutional management.

This research was motivated by the findings of dishonest behavior among SMPN 2 Kalidawir students, such as cheating during exams and dishonesty in daily social interactions. This condition shows that the value of honesty has not developed optimally. Therefore, this study aims to analyze social studies teachers' strategies in instilling honesty in grade VIII students and identify supporting and inhibiting factors in the process. The focus of the research includes two things: (1) teachers' strategies in instilling honesty through social studies learning, especially materials related to social interaction and students' daily lives; and (2) factors that affect the success of teachers in shaping the character of students' honesty. The approach used is descriptive qualitative research with data collection through observation, interviews, and documentation. This method allows researchers to gain an in-depth understanding based on the interpretation of phenomena found in the field. The results of the study show that the strategy of instilling honesty values is carried out in an integrated manner through the example of teachers, habituating honest behavior, and providing positive motivation during the learning process. Teachers also integrate the value of honesty into relevant social studies materials and provide real examples in daily life. Supporting factors for the success of this strategy include consistent teacher examples, a conducive school environment, and targeted and collaborative student program support. However, there are inhibiting factors such as the influence of the environment outside the school, academic pressure, and diverse socioeconomic conditions of students. This research makes an important contribution to strengthening character education through social studies learning at the junior high school level.

Social studies learning as one of the progmatic components in the school curriculum is actually expected to support the achievement of the ideal goals of education. Through social studies education, students are fostered and developed their intellectual mental abilities to become citizens who are skilled and socially concerned and responsible in accordance with the values contained in Pancasila. Social studies learning contained in the educational curriculum is a simplification of learning materials from social science knowledge or concepts. The method in this study is research using a quantitative research approach. This research is descriptive. The sample in this study was 30 students of grade VIIIA (control) and VIIIB (experiment) of SMP Kristen Taaba District. Data collection techniques using test questions and documentation. Based on the results of research and discussion, and data analysis carried out, it can be concluded that the mind mapping learning model can affect the learning outcomes of social studies class VIII SMP Kristen Taaba District. Indicators of the assessment of learning outcomes can be seen from the students' posttest scores have increased. Based on the research objectives with the t-test hypothesis, an sg (2 – Tailed) value of < 0.05 is obtained which is 0.000 so that H0 is rejected meaning that there is an influence of the mind mapping learning model on the learning outcomes of social studies class VIII SMP Kristen Taaba District. In other words, the mind mapping learning model affects learning outcomes with categories that are quite effective.

This study aims to increase student interest in Social Studies (IPS) through the use of varied learning media in third-grade students at SD Pembangunan Laboratorium UNP. The typically boring nature of Social Studies learning can be addressed by presenting engaging media tailored to student characteristics. Varied learning media, such as educational videos, images, interactive games, and props, are expected to engage students, engage them, and enhance their understanding of the material. This study used a qualitative approach through observation and interviews to determine students' responses to the use of these media. The results showed that the use of diverse learning media increased student motivation and interest in Social Studies lessons. Students appeared more enthusiastic in discussions, asking questions, and completing assigned assignments. Thus, the use of varied media not only increased student interest but also strengthened their understanding of the material presented. This study recommends that educators at SD Pembangunan Laboratorium UNP optimize the use of varied learning media to improve the quality of Social Studies learning, thereby making the teaching and learning process more enjoyable and effective.

Social Studies (IPS) learning in elementary schools plays a crucial role in fostering students’ social awareness, which includes understanding social values, developing empathy, and participating responsibly in community life. However, in practice, Social Studies learning often remains theoretical and textbook-centered, making students’ learning experiences less meaningful and disconnected from real-life contexts. To address this issue, utilizing the surrounding environment as a learning resource offers an effective alternative by bringing real social situations into the learning process. This study aims to analyze the concepts, implementation, and impact of environmental utilization on enhancing elementary students’ social awareness. The research employed a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) method by reviewing relevant scholarly articles obtained from national and international databases such as Garuda, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect, using the keywords “environment as a learning resource in Social Studies” and “students’ social awareness.” The findings reveal that the use of the surrounding environment as a learning resource promotes students’ critical thinking, empathy, and social concern through contextual and participatory learning experiences. Moreover, teachers play a pivotal role in designing project-based and field-observation activities that strengthen the internalization of social values. Therefore, Social Studies learning that integrates environmental resources is proven to be effective in shaping students’ social character from an early age and supports the realization of holistic, active, and life-oriented education.  

This study aims to determine the effectiveness of the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) model assisted by Doratoon animation videos on students’ conceptual understanding in Social Studies for eighth-grade students of SMP Negeri 6 Sengah Temila. This research employed a quantitative approach using a quasi-experimental method with a Pretest-Posttest Control Group Design. The population in this study consisted of all eighth-grade students, with two classes selected as samples using a purposive sampling technique. The experimental class was taught using the PBL model assisted by Doratoon animation videos, while the control class used Canva media. The research instrument was a multiple-choice test consisting of 20 questions administered before and after the treatment to measure students’ conceptual understanding. The data analysis results showed that the average N-Gain score of the experimental class was 21.6% (low category), while the control class scored 22.6% (low category). The independent sample t-test yielded a significance value of 0.000 < 0.05, indicating a significant difference between the experimental and control classes. Therefore, the Problem-Based Learning model assisted by Doratoon animation videos was proven to be more effective than Canva media in improving students’ conceptual understanding in Social Studies. The results of this study are expected to serve as a reference for teachers in applying innovative learning media to support more interactive and meaningful learning.

This research is motivated by the low learning outcomes and activeness of class VII F students of MTs Darul Hikmah Tulungagung in Social Studies (IPS) lessons due to the use of monotonous lecture methods. The purpose of this study is to improve students' activeness and cognitive abilities through the application of board-based scrabble media. This research is a Classroom Action Research (CAR) which was carried out in two cycles with four stages: planning, implementation, observation, and reflection. The research subjects were 27 students, with data collection techniques through tests, observation, and documentation, and data analysis using average scores. Student activeness was observed based on learning activeness indicators, while cognitive abilities were measured through pre-tests and post-tests based on Bloom's taxonomy. The results of the study showed an increase in student activeness from 62% in cycle I to 87% in cycle II, as well as an increase in the average cognitive ability from 18.51% to 77.77%. These findings indicate that scrabble media is effective in improving students' activeness and cognitive abilities in IPS learning.  The implication is that game-based learning media can be widely applied to non-language materials to create more interactive and meaningful learning.

This study aims to: (1) determine the influence of teacher Self Efficacy on students’ learning motivation in Economics Social Studies; (2) determine the influence of teachers’ teaching creativity on students’ learning motivation; (3) determine the influence of teacher attitudes on students’ learning motivation; (4) analyze the simultaneous influence of teacher Self Efficacy, teaching creativity, and teacher attitudes on students’ learning motivation; and (5) identify the most dominant variable affecting students’ learning motivation at SMP Negeri 9 Marusu, Maros Regency. The research was conducted from September to November 2025 using an associative quantitative approach with an ex-post facto design. The sample consisted of 155 students selected through proportional random sampling. The research instrument was a Likert-scale questionnaire that had passed validity and reliability testing. Data were analyzed using classical assumption tests and multiple linear regression with the help of SPSS. The results of the study indicate that: (1) teacher Self Efficacy has a significant partial effect on students’ learning motivation (t = 3.606, Sig. = 0.000), but becomes insignificant in the simultaneous model (t = –0.531, Sig. = 0.596); (2) teaching creativity has a positive and significant partial effect (t = 5.852, Sig. = 0.000); (3) teacher attitudes have a positive and significant effect (t = 8.008, Sig. = 0.000) and are the most dominant variable, as shown by the highest regression coefficient (B = 1.456; Beta = 0.916); (4) simultaneously, teacher Self Efficacy, teaching creativity, and teacher attitudes significantly influence students’ learning motivation (F = 38.854, Sig. = 0.000); and (5) teacher attitudes are the most dominant predictor, as indicated by B = 1.456 and Beta = 0.916. This means that the more positive the teacher's attitude, the higher the students' learning motivation.

The era of globalization is an era of quality competition, where only thosebwith high competence will be able to compete in the free market. Therefore, developing high-quality human resources is something that cannot be compromised. Education that supports development in this era is education that can foster students’ potential’ enabling them toface and overcome life’s challenges. Thus, in the learning process, teachers should not only serve as models or sources of knowledge but also act as learning managers. As learning managers, teachers play an important role in creating a learning environment that allows students to learn confortably and effectively. Based on observations at SMA Negeri 2 Taniwel, it was found that students in class X-2 have low learning outcomes in sociology. The writer’s observation in class indicated that sociology learning was dominated by lecture methods, resulting in students being less active during the learning process. According to research conducted by Al Muchtar (1991), learning in social studies education does not sufficiently simulate students to be actively involved in the learning process. Furthermore, the teaching and learning process of social studies carried out bye teachers has not been able to faster a learning culture among students, wich in turn significantly affects their learning achievement and outcomes. To support active learning strategies, teachers can apply various relevant learning models. Therefore, the learning process will become more varied, innovative, and constructive, creating interaction between teachers and students, among students themselves, and between students and other learning resources.

Quality education is the key to improving skills and knowledge for students. However, there are still many challenges faced in improving the quality of education, especially at the primary level. Collaborative Madrasah Ibtidaiyah Lecturers and Teachers in book writing can be one of the strategies to improve the quality of Education. This research aims to be active through collaboration in writing Madrasah Science Competition books between Tarbiyatut Tholabah Islamic Institute Lecturers and Madrasah Ibtidaiyah 02 Mazro'atul Ulum teachers. The results of the service showed an increase in the quality of lecturers and teachers in presenting learning and academic materials in order to provide excellent service for students, especially Madrasah Science Competition participants. And the most important thing is the creation of a collaborative book masterpiece entitled Madrasah Science Competition which contains a summary of material from science, social studies, mathematics, Arabic English and religious sciences such as Fiqh, Aqidah, Islamic Culture History and the presentation of sample questions and discussions. Moreover, the project has had a positive impact on the educators involved. It has allowed them to deepen their understanding of the subjects and improve their ability to present complex concepts in an accessible way. The collaborative nature of the project has fostered a supportive learning community, where educators learn from one another's expertise and experiences. The resulting Madrasah Science Competition book is not only a valuable educational resource but also a testament to the power of collaboration in enhancing the quality of education.

This study focuses on the development of student character, particularly in terms of discipline and responsibility, at SMPN 1 Ngunut, an outstanding school in Tulungagung Regency. Seventh-grade students are in a transitional phase from elementary to junior high school, making them vulnerable to the influences of their environment and the changing times. Based on observations, many students have not yet demonstrated disciplined behavior, such as arriving on time, completing tasks, cheating during exams, and not paying attention to teachers while learning. This study aims to identify effective Social Studies (IPS) teaching strategies for shaping students' character. The research focuses on (1) the role of teachers as demonstrators in developing disciplined and responsible character through IPS learning, (2) effective strategies employed by teachers to cultivate discipline and responsibility in students, and (3) potential solutions to improve the quality of IPS learning in instilling discipline and responsibility. The method used is descriptive qualitative research with a case study approach. The findings show that (1) IPS learning in the seventh grade at SMPN 1 Ngunut is effective in instilling discipline and responsibility, (2) Teachers use teaching activities to instill values such as punctuality and task completion, (3) Through methods like group work, individual assignments, and behavioral evaluations, students show positive changes, (4) The role of teachers as facilitators and role models is crucial, (5) Collaboration between teachers and the principal creates a school culture that supports character development, and (6) The impact of this process is reflected in increased student awareness of their responsibilities. These findings highlight that IPS not only fosters cognitive knowledge but also serves as a strategic medium for continuous moral and character development.