The Journal of Science Education Literacy (JSEL) is a peer-reviewed electronic journal managed by the Science Education Study Program, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education at Universitas Mulawarman. We are dedicated to the global advancement of science education by providing a platform for full-length research and comprehensive literature reviews. Our publication serves the academic community across all educational levels, including primary, secondary, and higher education. JSEL is committed to bridging the gap between theoretical science and practical educational applications. Our focus encompasses several key pillars: Innovation in science education Development of context-based science teaching materials Scientific research and review in science, physics, biology, chemistry, and environment. Science literacy for the twenty-first century Evaluation of educational standards in science Review Process & Ethical Standards To ensure the highest quality of published work, JSEL employs a rigorous double-blind review system involving at least two expert reviewers. We maintain a strict anti-plagiarism policy with a maximum similarity threshold of 20 percent, utilizing industry-standard tools such as Turnitin or iThenticate to verify the integrity of every submission. In alignment with the Budapest Open Access Initiative, JSEL provides immediate and unrestricted open access to all its content. Under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0), authors retain their copyright while allowing others to share and adapt their work with proper acknowledgment. No Publication Fees At this time, JSEL does not charge any author fees for article submission or publication. All operational costs are supported by the Science Education Study Program at Universitas Mulawarman, allowing authors to publish high-quality research without any financial barriers. Journal Information Journal Title Journal of Science Education Literacy Initials JSEL DOI Prefix https://doi.org/10.30872 ISSN (Online) 3163-4265 Publication Frequency Two issues per year (May & October) Publisher Science Education Study Program, Universitas Mulawarman Contact us: jurnal.pendidikan.ipa@fkip.unmul.ac.id
Development of VIRUSCAPE learning media: learning viruses through scrapbooks, augmented reality, and crossword puzzles
This study aimed to develop VIRUSCAPE (Virus Scrapbook, Augmented Reality, and Crossword Puzzle) as an innovative multimodal learning medium for virus material in senior high school biology learning. The study employed a Research and Development (R&D) approach using the 4D model consisting of Define, Design, and Develop stages. The developed media integrated scrapbook-based visual learning, Augmented Reality (AR)-assisted visualization, and crossword puzzle educational games into one instructional framework. Data were collected through interviews, questionnaires, and expert validation sheets involving one material expert and one media expert. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively using feasibility percentage calculations, while qualitative data from validator suggestions were analyzed descriptively for product improvement. The results demonstrated that VIRUSCAPE obtained a material expert validation score of 95.45% and a media expert validation score of 84.72%, both categorized as “Very Feasible.” The findings indicate that the developed media successfully fulfilled important instructional criteria, including scientific accuracy, visual attractiveness, interactivity, and curriculum relevance. The integration of visual, digital, and game-based learning components effectively supported students’ conceptual understanding and engagement in learning abstract virus concepts. The novelty of this research lies in the integration of scrapbook media, AR technology, and crossword puzzle activities into a single multimodal biology learning medium. This study contributes to science education literacy by providing an innovative instructional alternative capable of improving meaningful learning experiences, student participation, and conceptual understanding in biology education
Copyright (c) 2026 Anggun Wulandari, Salma Salsabila, Fela Karimatul Maulidiyah, Lailatul Maghfirohtun Ni’mah, A. Muazim Zaki Al Fikri https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Differences in the growth of Candida albicans fungi on alternative media of soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) and Sabouraud Dextrose Agar (SDA)
Candida albicans is an opportunistic pathogenic fungus that can cause candidiasis. However, culture media commonly used for its growth, such as Sabouraud Dextrose Agar (SDA), are relatively expensive and not always readily available. Soybeans (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) contain various nutrients, including carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals, which may support fungal growth and serve as an alternative culture medium. This study aimed to determine the difference in the growth of Candida albicans on an alternative soybean medium and SDA. A quantitative experimental approach with a Post-Test Only Control Group Design was employed. The study used Candida albicans ATCC 14053 isolates, which were inoculated onto both the soybean alternative medium and SDA and incubated for 24 hours. Fungal growth was evaluated by counting the number of colonies formed on each medium. The results showed that the mean number of Candida albicans colonies on the soybean medium was 98 colonies, whereas the mean number on SDA was 31 colonies. Statistical analysis using the Independent Samples t-test revealed a significant difference in fungal growth between the two media (p = 0.002; α = 0.05). These findings indicate that the soybean alternative medium supports the growth of Candida albicans significantly better than SDA and has potential as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative culture medium for fungal cultivation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Fina Fitrotul Azlina, EKA PUSPITASARI, Qurrotu A'yunin Lathifah, Imelda Putri K. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The effect of a project-based learning model focused on higher-order thinking skills on the science learning outcomes of grade VI at Elementary School at Barito Kuala Regency
This study aims to determine the effect of applying the Project Based Learning model to questions based on Higher Order Tinking Skills in natural sciences (IPA) Class VI SDN Sahurai I Barito Kuala district and to find out whether there is a change or not in the increase in student knowledge results in science material. nature (IPA). In this study the method chosen was the quasi-experimental method because the sample was not randomly selected but had been formed in the form of classes. The test results with the help of SPSS version 22 showed a Sig.(2-tailed) value of 0.000 <0.005, the results showed that there was a change in the average student learning outcomes for the pre-test of the experimental class and the post-test of the experimental class. This is also reinforced by SPSS version 22 calculations in descriptive analysis on learning interpretation showing changes in the average student learning outcomes before learning is carried out with after implementing learning with the Project Based Learning model with the results of the experimental class pre-test equal to showing the results of learning development with a value pre-test experimental class minimum 50.00 and maximum general 75.00 mean 64.67 with a standard foreign exchange of 7.432 after testing and post-testing Student learning outcomes increased to a minimum score of 80.00 with a maximum value of 95.00 with a mean 87.00. This shows an increase in learning outcomes and it can be concluded that there is an influence of the project-based learning learning model on the higher order thinking skills of class VI students at SDN Sahurai I. After implementing the experimental and control classes and data testing with the help of SPSS version 22, the results of test interpretation The Paired Sample T Test shows that the output on the data obtained is a Sig (2-Tailled) result of 0.000 < 0.005 or rcount > rtable, meaning that H0 is rejected and Ha is accepted, from this it can be concluded that there is an average difference in student learning outcomes between learning models project based learning.
Copyright (c) 2026 Amelia Shalehah, Eko Wahyu Nur Sofianto https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The ChatGPT phenomena: an exploration of physics education students in solving course assignment
This study aims to describe the use of ChatGPT in completing physics assignments by students in the Physics Education programme at Mulawarman University. This study employed a descriptive quantitative method involving 60 students as participants. A Likert-scale questionnaire was developed to measure five aspects: level of understanding and usage, effectiveness, attitude towards usage, ethics of usage, and the significance of using ChatGPT. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics, including percentages, means, and standard deviations. The results indicate that students generally hold a positive perception of ChatGPT usage, particularly regarding its ability to enhance learning motivation, aid conceptual understanding, and solve physics problems. The ‘attitude towards usage’ dimension scored highest, whilst the ‘ethics of usage’ dimension scored lowest, highlighting the need to raise awareness of responsible technology use. The findings of this study suggest that ChatGPT has the potential to be an effective learning aid. Recommendations from this study include the importance of integrating ethical literacy into the use of AI technology, as well as the development of more adaptive and responsible AI-based physics learning strategies.
Copyright (c) 2026 Fitri Azkia, Siti Bulkiah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Accuracy testing and verification of rigid body equilibrium theory using a torque balance demonstrator
The concepts of torque and rigid body equilibrium are often perceived as abstract and difficult for students, a challenge exacerbated by the scarcity of high-precision instructional aids. This study evaluates the accuracy of rigid body equilibrium theory through the development of a Torque Balance Demonstrator. Employing a quantitative laboratory experimental method, the research systematically varied load mass and lever arm length to compare empirical data with theoretical predictions. The apparatus was constructed from homogeneous PVC to ensure mechanical stability and integrated a laser-based indicator system to eliminate parallax error and objectively identify the equilibrium point. The results demonstrate a strong linear correlation between the lever arm and the resulting torque, consistent with theoretical principles. Although minor discrepancies were observed, the laser system effectively minimized observational error, maintaining a margin of error below 2%. Consequently, the Torque Balance Demonstrator is a precise and reliable instrument for physics education, capable of mitigating misconceptions and enhancing conceptual mastery of rotational dynamics.
Copyright (c) 2026 Anugrah Putri Nur'aini, Mauda Ramadhanty, Lia Fara Camelia Nabila; Herlina Oktafiana; Atin Nuryadin, Muliati Syam https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Identification of spermatophyte plants at Pelang Beach as material for the creation of an ecotourism poster
Pelang Beach in Trenggalek Regency is a coastal area with a high level of plant diversity, particularly among the Spermatophyta group. However, information regarding plant species in this area remains limited. This study aims to identify Spermatophyta plant species at Pelang Beach and utilize the area’s potential as material for developing ecotourism posters. The study employed an exploratory approach focused on species identification and description without experimental treatments. The identification results were used as the basis for designing ecotourism posters. Data collection techniques included direct observation through field surveys, interviews with beach managers, and photographic documentation of the plant species found. Data were analyzed by classifying plants into the Gymnospermae and Angiospermae categories, then presented in the form of species tables accompanied by photographic documentation. The results of the study indicate the presence of 23 Spermatophyta plant species at Pelang Beach, comprising 2 Gymnospermae species Pinus merkusii and Cycas rumphii and 21 Angiospermae species. Some of the species found include Cocos nucifera L., Thespesia populnea, Terminalia catappa, Casuarina equisetifolia, Rhizophora mucronata, Pandanus odorifer, Swietenia macrophylla, Tectona grandis, Samanea saman, and Ipomoea pes-caprae. The results of this identification were used to create an ecotourism poster containing general information about Pelang Beach, the area’s attractions, a classification and brief description of the plants, photographic documentation, conclusions, and a bibliography. This medium is considered to have the potential to support learning while raising awareness of coastal ecosystem conservation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ivo Triska Adita, Fatikhatun Nikmatus Sholihah, Anggun Wulandari https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0