The Use of PhET Simulations in Guided Discovery Learning to Enhance Critical Thinking Skills among Elementary School Students

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Published: Feb 28, 2026

Abstract:

Background: Learning in elementary schools still faces challenges in developing students’ critical thinking skills, especially when learning approaches do not provide opportunities for students to be actively involved in the learning process. The Guided Discovery Learning strategy directs student involvement to gain understanding through gradual exploration and reasoning. The use of PhET simulations as interactive digital media helps present concepts visually, making them easier for students to understand.
Aims: This article aims to examine the use of PhET Simulations in the Guided Discovery Learning Strategy as an effort to develop critical thinking skills in elementary school students.
Methods: This study employed a literature review, analyzing various relevant sources from national journals.  
Result: The results of the study indicate that the integration of PhET Simulation with the Guided Discovery Learning Strategy has strong potential to support the development of students’ critical thinking skills. These skills include problem analysis, information evaluation, conceptual interpretation, and the ability to draw logical conclusions. The reviewed literature consistently shows that interactive simulations encourage active learning, improve conceptual understanding, and support inquiry-based learning processes at the elementary school level.
Conclusion: This study provides an overview for elementary school educators in designing more active, meaningful learning that utilizes technology.

Keywords: Critical Thinking Skills , Elementary Schools , Guided Discovery Learning , PhET Simulations

Authors:
1 . Rizka Salwa Alifia
Universitas Pendidikan Ganesha, Indonesia,
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Copyright (c) 2026 Rizka Salwa Alifia

Issue
Vol. 1 No. 1 (2026): Journal of Sustainable Online Learning and Educational Research (JSOLER)
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Articles

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