Using Virtual Laboratory to Improve Student's Critical Thinking Ability in Learning Chemistry in High School

Abstract

Education in the digital era requires innovation in the use of technology as a learning medium that can improve student’s critical thinking skills. One of the promising technologies is the virtual laboratory, which can be used as a medium of learning in chemistry lessons in senior high schools. This study aims to present an overview of the use of virtual laboratories to improve students' critical thinking skills in high school chemistry learning. In this study, an analysis of relevant literature was carried out to identify the benefits and potential of virtual laboratories in chemistry learning. The results of the study show that the use of a virtual laboratory can effectively improve student’s critical thinking skills in high school chemistry learning. Virtual laboratories can help students to develop skills in analyzing, evaluating and interpreting information in a chemical context, as well as increasing their understanding of concepts and problem-solving skills. To optimize the use of virtual laboratories in chemistry learning in high school, good planning, development and implementation is required, as well as an evaluation of the effectiveness and efficiency of using virtual laboratories. This research is expected to provide insights and recommendations for educational practitioners, especially in the development of chemistry learning that is innovative and oriented towards students' critical thinking skills.