Development of Pixton-Based Digital Comic Media on Plant Structure and Photosynthesis to Improve Grade 4 Elementary Students’ Learning Outcomes

Abstract

The limited availability of innovative learning media in elementary schools often results in low student engagement and suboptimal learning outcomes, particularly in abstract science-related subjects. This study aims to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of Pixton-based digital comic media on plant structure and photosynthesis in Grade 4 Integrated Science and Social Studies (IPAS) learning. The research employed a Research and Development (R&D) approach using the ADDIE model, which includes analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation stages. The study was conducted at SDI Al-Amanah, South Tangerang, involving 30 fourth-grade students as research participants. Data were collected through expert validation sheets, student response questionnaires, and pretest–posttest instruments. The data analysis utilized descriptive statistics and inferential analysis using a paired sample t-test with SPSS. The results showed that the developed digital comic media achieved high feasibility levels, with validation scores of 96% from media experts, 88% from language experts, and 86% from material experts. Effectiveness testing revealed a significant improvement in students’ learning outcomes, indicated by a Sig. (2-tailed) value of 0.000 < 0.05 and an N-Gain score of 0.61 in the moderate category. These findings indicate that Pixton-based digital comic media are effective in improving learning outcomes and can be utilized as an alternative instructional medium in elementary science learning.