- Research Article
- 10.69569/jip.2026.070
Explorative Learning and Critical Thinking Skills of Students in Earth Science
- Jan 01, 2026
- Journal of Interdisciplinary Perspectives
- Richel Arañes + 1 more +1
This study examined the effectiveness of the Explorative Learning Approach in enhancing the critical thinking skills and summative assessment performance of Grade 11 Earth Science students. A quasi-experimental pretest posttest control group design was employed. Forty-two students were assigned to experimental and control groups (n = 21 each). Results showed that the experimental group obtained significantly higher posttest scores on critical thinking (M = 27.00, SD = 6.30) than the control group (M = 17.86, SD = 8.24), t(40) = 4.04, p < .001. Within-group analysis also revealed significant improvements in the experimental group, t (20) = 10.52, p < .001. Findings indicate that the Explorative Learning Approach significantly enhances critical thinking and academic performance compared to traditional instruction. The results suggest that structured inquiry-based instruction can improve higher-order thinking skills in secondary science education contexts. Implications for instructional practice and future research across subject areas are discussed.
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