Augmented Reality-Based Learning in Science Education to Enhance Conceptual Understanding, Spatial Ability, and Scientific Literacy

Authors

  • Ayu Rischi Utami Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.62872/sej.v2i2.548

Keywords:

augmented reality, conceptual understanding, spatial ability, scientific literacy, science education

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of augmented reality (AR)-based learning in enhancing students’ conceptual understanding, spatial ability, and scientific literacy in science education. The research employed a quantitative approach using a quasi-experimental design with a non-equivalent control group. The participants consisted of two groups: an experimental group taught using AR-based learning integrated with inquiry-based activities and a control group taught using conventional methods. Data were collected through a conceptual understanding test, a spatial ability test, and a scientific literacy test. The results showed that the experimental group achieved significantly higher post-test scores compared to the control group. The normalized gain (N-gain) analysis indicated that the experimental group reached a medium to high level of improvement, while the control group remained in the low to medium category. Statistical testing using an independent sample t-test revealed a significant difference between the two groups (p < 0.05). Furthermore, AR-based learning significantly improved students’ ability to visualize abstract concepts, interpret spatial relationships, analyze data, and apply scientific knowledge. These findings suggest that augmented reality is an effective and innovative instructional strategy for promoting meaningful learning and developing essential competencies in science education

References

Antonucci-Durgan, D., & Abramovich, S. (2024). Investigating the Relationship between Students’ Spatial Ability and Their Assumptions about the Structure and Motion of Matter. Journal of Chemical Education, 101(9), 3656-3665. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jchemed.4c00174

Chen, S. Y., & Liu, S. Y. (2026). From argumentation to real-world action: a way to realize scientific literacy. International Journal of Science Education, 48(2), 222–241. https://doi.org/10.1080/09500693.2024.2415727

Coştu, F. (2025). Exploring augmented reality (AR) in science education: Perspectives from gifted students. The Journal of Educational Research, 118(1), 19–36. https://doi.org/10.1080/00220671.2024.2431681

Fitrianto, I., & Saif, A. (2024). The role of virtual reality in enhancing Experiential Learning: a comparative study of traditional and immersive learning environments. International Journal of Post Axial: Futuristic Teaching and Learning, 97-110. https://doi.org/10.59944/postaxial.v2i2.300

Hoai, V. T. T., Son, P. N., An, D. T. T., & Anh, N. V. (2024). An investigation into whether applying augmented reality (AR) in teaching chemistry enhances chemical cognitive ability. International Journal of Learning, Teaching and Educational Research, 23(4), 195-216. https://doi.org/10.26803/ijlter.23.4.11

Kapici, H. O., Akcay, H., & de Jong, T. (2022). Using virtual laboratories in science education: A meta-analysis. Educational Research Review, 35, 100418. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.edurev.2022.100418

Kotsis, K. T. (2024). Integrating inquiry-based learning in the new Greek primary science curriculum. European Journal of Education and Pedagogy, 5(6), 63-71. https://doi.org/10.24018/ejedu.2024.5.6.899

Lampropoulos, G., & Kinshuk. (2024). Virtual reality and gamification in education: A systematic review. Educational Technology Research and Development, 72, 1691–1785. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11423-024-10351-3

Makransky, G., Petersen, G. B., & Klingenberg, S. (2021). Immersive virtual reality and learning: A meta-analysis. Educational Psychology Review, 33, 937–958. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10648-020-09583-6

Medina Herrera LM, Juárez Ordóñez S and Ruiz-Loza S (2024). Enhancing mathematical education with spatial visualization tools. Front. Educ. 9:1229126. doi: 10.3389/feduc.2024.1229126

Mhlongo, S., Mbatha, K., Ramatsetse, B., & Dlamini, R. (2023). Challenges, opportunities, and prospects of adopting and using smart digital technologies in learning environments: An iterative review. Heliyon, 9(6). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e16348

Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. (2023). PISA 2022 results: Learning outcomes and scientific literacy. OECD Publishing. https://doi.org/10.1787/pisa-2022

Parisu, C. Z. L., Aspin, A., & Suleman, A. (2025). Augmented reality-based stem learning to enhance elementary school students' higher-order thinking skills. Jurnal Konseling dan Pendidikan, 13(4), 271-288. https://doi.org/10.29210/1184100

Radianti, J., Majchrzak, T. A., Fromm, J., & Wohlgenannt, I. (2020). A systematic review of immersive virtual reality applications for higher education. Computers & Education, 147, 103778. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2019.103778

Rosli, R., & Ishak, N. A. (2024). Integration of virtual labs in science education: A systematic literature review. Jurnal Pendidikan Sains dan Matematik Malaysia, 14(1), 81–103.

Ruiz-Navas, S., Ackaradejraungsri, P., & Dijk, S. (2024). Gamification to foster inclusive teaching: A scoping review. Frontiers in Education, 9, 1306298. https://doi.org/10.3389/feduc.2024.1306298

Siregar, R. S. (2024). Students’ Preferences for Varied Learning Methods: An Empirical Study of the Effectiveness and Appeal of Diverse Instructional Approaches. Jurnal Profesi Guru Indonesia, 1(2), 140–152. https://doi.org/10.62945/jpgi.v1i2.679

Tene, T., Guevara, M., Moreano, G., Vera, J., & Gomez, C. V. (2024). The role of immersive virtual realities: Enhancing science learning in higher education. Emerging science journal, 8, 88-102. http://dx.doi.org/10.28991/ESJ-2024-SIED1-06

Downloads

Published

2025-02-27

How to Cite

Utami, A. R. (2025). Augmented Reality-Based Learning in Science Education to Enhance Conceptual Understanding, Spatial Ability, and Scientific Literacy. Scientica Education Journal, 2(2), 1–8. https://doi.org/10.62872/sej.v2i2.548

Issue

Section

Articles