Sixth-grade Students Research Articles

Serious game-based learning and learning by making games: Types of game-based pedagogies and student gaming hours impact students' science learning outcomes

Game-based learning (GBL) has garnered significant attention as a means to enhance student science learning. However, researchers often broadly categorize GBL without specific attention to teachers' practices or the different game-based pedagogies (GBPs) such as serious game-based learning and learning by making games. Serious game-based learning involves the use of games designed primarily for purposes beyond entertainment, engaging students in learning activities. Learning by making games goes further by enabling students to construct and expand their knowledge through creative activities. Furthermore, the impact of students' weekly gaming hours on their academic performance under different GBPs has not been thoroughly explored. In this study, we analyzed pre- and post-science unit assessment data to investigate the effects of serious game-based learning and learning by making games, along with gaming hours, on the science learning outcomes of 129 sixth-grade students in a Midwestern urban school district in the United States. Employing Bayesian paired t-tests and ANOVA, we examined the effects of two GBPs (serious game learning and game-making) implemented by two science teachers and the interaction between each GBP and students' weekly gaming hours. Our findings indicate that both GBPs led to improvements in students’ learning, with those participating in making games showing an average increase of 3.5 points more on the posttests than those engaged in serious game-based learning. Additionally, data on student-reported weekly gaming hours showed that in both GBP conditions, students with medium gaming hours showed the most improvement compared to those with fewer or more gaming hours. There was also a potential interaction between types of GBP and the effect of gaming hours outcomes in that the learning gain difference between the two GBPs was more pronounced among students reporting fewer gaming hours, although this effect was not significant. This study contributes to the GBL field by providing practical design recommendations for integrating GBL into formal Kindergarten to 12th grade (K-12) settings, taking into account teachers' pedagogical agency and students' gaming experiences.

Understanding the interplay between teacher self-efficacy, teacher–student interactions, and students’ self-regulated learning skills at different levels of classroom ecology

IntroductionStudies pinpoint the importance of exploring factors in the classroom environment that might foster students’ SRL-skills in various domains. This study explored specific teacher and classroom factors, including self-efficacy for SRL-skills (TSE) and teacher–student interactions in relation to students’ self-regulated learning skills in various domains (metacognitive, motivational, and behavioral). Additionally, the moderating role of teacher–student interactions in the relationship between TSE and SRL-skills was examined.MethodsThird-to sixth grade students (N = 1,278, 46.9% boys) from 63 classrooms of Dutch elementary schools completed reports about their metacognitive, motivational, and behavioral SRL-skills. Teachers reported on their TSE for eight randomly selected students from their classes. In addition, the Classroom Assessment Scoring System was used to observe the quality of teacher–student interactions.ResultsMultilevel analyses generally revealed that individual students reported better metacognitive, motivational, and behavioral SRL-skills when their teachers felt efficacious in teaching SRL-skills. However, none of the associations at the class level were significant. Moreover, when high-quality teacher–student interactions were observed, students reported lower levels of metacognitive, motivational, and behavioral SRL-skills. No moderating effect of teacher–student interactions on the relation between TSE and SRL-skills was found.DiscussionThese findings show that specific measures of TSE at the appropriate level of analysis may help to better explain variation in TSE and students’ SRL-skills.

Optimalisasi Pembelajaran: Penerapan Strategi PORPE untuk Meningkatkan Kemampuan Membaca Pemahaman Siswa Kelas VI Madrasah Ibtidaiyah

Reading comprehension is an essential skill that requires optimization to enhance students' grasp of science and information, which continues to evolve. A preliminary study at MI Ar-Rochmah revealed a significant deficiency in the reading comprehension abilities of fourth-grade students. The limited understanding of reading materials provided by teachers renders most students unable to answer essay questions or summarize the text effectively. Consequently, researchers endeavor to enhance students' reading comprehension skills during school learning activities by implementing the Predict, Organize, Rehearse, Practice, Evaluate (PORPE) learning strategy. This research employs a quantitative approach utilizing a quasi-experimental method. The research design employed a Non-equivalent Control Group Design, with the research population comprising all sixth-grade students in classes VI A and VI B at MI Ar-Rochmah Lembang during the 2023/2024 academic year. Data collection techniques included pretest-posttest description questions and observation sheets documenting teacher and student activities. Analysis of the research results through a t-test hypothesis test revealed a significance value (2-tailed) of 0.000, which is less than 0.05, leading to the rejection of H0 and acceptance of H1. These findings suggest a significant disparity in the average reading comprehension scores between students who received instruction utilizing the PORPE strategy and those taught using the DLTA strategy. Consequently, it can be inferred that the PORPE strategy effectively enhances the reading comprehension skills of sixth-grade students at MI Ar-Rochmah.

Global Study Unveils Mind Mapping's Impact on Reading Skills

This study investigates the effectiveness of the Mind Mapping Technique in improving reading comprehension among sixth-grade students in Sidoarjo, Indonesia. Using a pre-experimental design with pretest and posttest assessments, data from 20 students at Temu 2 Prambon Elementary School were analyzed using SPSS 26. Results show a significant improvement in post-test scores (average 68.5) compared to pre-test scores (average 49.5), indicating the positive impact of Mind Mapping on reading comprehension. These findings underscore the potential of Mind Mapping as an effective tool for educators to enhance students' reading skills, particularly in understanding descriptive content, offering valuable insights for educational practices in similar settings. Highliht: Effective Mind Mapping: Enhances sixth-grade reading comprehension. Quantitative Analysis: Validates method using SPSS. Educational Implications: Recommends Mind Mapping for elementary education. Keyword: Mind Mapping, Reading Comprehension, Elementary Education, Pre-experimental Design, SPSS Analysis

Transitioning from paper to touch interface: Phoneme-grapheme recognition testing and gamification in primary school classrooms

Phonological processing of written characters has been recognized as a crucial element in acquiring literacy in any language, both native and foreign. This study aimed to assess Japanese primary school students' phoneme-grapheme recognition skills using both paper-based and touch-interface tests. Differences between the two test formats and the relationship between phoneme-grapheme recognition skills and interaction with gamified digital tests were investigated. Participants were sixth-grade students from two public schools. The results of comparison tests indicated that the touch-interface test had lower success rates compared to the paper-based test for most items, suggesting a difference in performance patterns. A consistent relationship between tested phoneme-grapheme knowledge and successful gamified interaction was found. Findings highlight the potential of touch-interface assessments for assessing phoneme-grapheme recognition skills in primary school classrooms and suggest incorporating more digital tasks to enhance student adaptation.

Means End Analysis (MEA): A Learning Model to Improve Mathematics Cognitive Learning Outcomes in the Post-Pandemic COVID-19

This research is motivated by the low cognitive learning outcomes of students in solving math problems. Alternative learning to the low cognitive learning outcomes of students is to apply the Means-End Analysis learning model. This model is designed using a quasi-experimental method. This study aims to determine the difference in the average cognitive learning outcomes of class VI students in learning mathematics using the Means-End Analysis model with conventional learning using the Direct Instruction model. The population of this research is all sixth-grade students of SDN 267 Bandung for the academic year 2021/2022. The samples taken were class VI A, and class VI B using a purpose sampling technique. Data collection techniques used are tests and observations. The data analysis technique used an independent t-test with a significance level of 5%. The results obtained that: there is a difference in the average cognitive learning outcomes of students between those taught with the Means End Analysis learning model and conventional learning using the Direct Instruction model. So that the Means-End Analysis model can be used as a learning model that can improve cognitive mathematics learning outcomes in the post-pandemic COVID-19. Keywords: mathematics cognitive learning outcomes, means end analysis (MEA): a learning model, post-pandemic covid-19

Algebraic Representations of a Splitting Task: Implications of Numerical Reasoning

ABSTRACT This qualitative research study uses middle-grades students’ numerical reasoning to model their symbolic representations of the relationship between two multiplicatively related unknowns on an algebra task. Students in sixth grade through ninth grade participated in clinical interviews that assessed their numerical reasoning using the Number Sequences framework, their interpretation of the equal sign, and their algebraic reasoning in the context of writing equations. Analysis used the mental structures that define their numerical reasoning to explain their algebraic capabilities, and changes in their reasoning about the equal sign in different contexts. Findings show that splitting, one mental structure related to the students’ numerical reasoning, is related to students’ symbolic representations of multiplicatively related unknowns. Furthermore, students who had not constructed a splitting operation tended to use numerical examples in place of reasoning about unknowns, and to reason operationally about the equal sign to compensate for this limitation on an algebra task.

Engagement predicts computational thinking skills in unplugged activity: Analysis of gender differences

Engagement is critical to computational thinking and programming education. However, as multi-dimensional variables, when analyzing how different aspects of engagement in computational thinking tasks influence skills development, it becomes crucial to discern precisely which engagement components intersect with the progression of computational thinking skills. This discernment is pivotal because engagement can vary based on the task nature, the context, and the individual's preferences. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to explore the gender differences in engagement and computational thinking skills and the predictive relationships among these sub-dimensions for boys and girls in an unplugged environment. In this study, a quasi-experiment for 90 sixth-grade students from a north Chinese primary school was performed. By partial least squares–structural equation modeling, students’ models of computational thinking skills and engagement were analyzed, and comparisons of boys and girls were made by analysis of covariance statistics. Results indicated that compared with boys, girls reported higher computational thinking performance and more engagement in unplugged contexts. Furthermore, girls’ computational thinking skills were only predicted by their cognitive engagement, whereas boys’ computational thinking skills were predicted by their behavioral, emotional, and cognitive engagement. Teachers can adopt these findings to design computational thinking teaching interventions that combine the advantages of unplugged activity and focus on the engagement of boys and girls.

The influence of teacher-guided mindfulness practice on inter and intra-personal abilities among Israeli Arab students

This study investigates the effects of a mindfulness-based program implemented by teachers for their primary school students in the Arab sector of Israel. The study included 958 fourth, fifth, and sixth-grade students, with 659 completing the program and 299 students serving as controls. The effectiveness of the program was assessed through interpersonal and intrapersonal questionnaires, measuring anxiety, perceived stress, mindfulness, tolerance towards an outgroup, and teachers’ availability and acceptance. Students completed the questionnaires before and after the program. Significant interactions between time and group were observed in all measured outcomes, indicating the program’s positive effects. The findings suggest that mindfulness practices, known to be effective for primary school students in Western societies, can also be effective in collectivist cultures, such as the Arab society in Israel.

Effects of Co-Curricular Activities on Academic Performance of Elementary School Students

Background: Co-curricular activities (CCAs) have been increasingly recognized for their pivotal role in enhancing both academic performance and overall student development. These activities complement traditional learning by fostering a range of skills crucial for personal and academic growth. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the effects of co-curricular activities on the academic performance of sixth-grade students at Government Girls High School Bharth, Sialkot, providing insights into how these activities influence educational outcomes. Methods: A quantitative, experimental design was employed involving 98 sixth-grade students who were randomly assigned to either the experimental (n=36) or control group (n=36). The intervention included various CCAs such as drama, quiz, painting, and sports over two months. Data were collected using pre- and post-tests from the Urdu textbooks, with the results analyzed using SPSS version 25 to conduct t-tests and calculate means and standard deviations. Results: The pre-test results showed no significant difference between the groups (experimental group mean=14.97, SD=2.560; control group mean=14.03, SD=2.667; p=.131). Post-intervention, the experimental group exhibited a significant improvement in scores (mean=16.69, SD=2.806) compared to the control group (mean=12.69, SD=3.206), with p<.0001 indicating a substantial impact of CCAs on student performance. Conclusion: The study confirms that engagement in co-curricular activities significantly boosts academic performance among students, suggesting that such activities should be integral to educational curricula to promote comprehensive student development.

Changes in the Average Body Mass Index of Fifth- and Sixth-Grade Korean Elementary School Students: The Role of Physical Education in Student Health.

This study aimed to emphasize the importance of physical education in maintaining sufficient physical activity by examining the average BMI of fifth- and sixth-grade elementary school students in Korea over multiple years. This study investigated changes in the average BMI of fifth- and sixth-grade elementary school students in Korea. It provided foundational data to suggest the role of physical education in student health and set future directions. The 2019-2021 Physical Activity Promotion System (PAPS) of the Korean Ministry of Education was used. Data corresponding to fifth- and sixth-grade students (124,693 from 2019, 126,226 from 2020, and 117,809 from 2021) in 1208 elementary schools in Korea were collected. Repeated measures ANOVA was conducted for the data analysis. The study findings are as follows: First, the average BMI of fifth- and sixth-grade elementary school students in Korea increased significantly in 2021 compared with 2019 and 2020. Second, changes in the yearly average BMI showed a significant difference depending on gender and grade. Obesity among fifth- and sixth-grade elementary school students in Korea increased steadily during 2019-2021, which may be due to a decrease in students' physical activity. Male students showed a steeper increase regardless of grade. During the study period, limited physical activity at school increased obesity rates. Physical education must play a role in students' health in preparation for future changes.

Diving into Math Success for Discipline and Interest Propel Sixth-Graders

This study examines the relationship between learning discipline, interest in learning, and Mathematics learning outcomes among sixth-grade students at SDN Bulang, using a quantitative correlational approach. Data collected from 35 students through questionnaires and report card assessments were analyzed using SPSS v25. Results indicate a significant correlation between learning discipline, interest in learning, and Mathematics learning outcomes, with correlation coefficients of 0.747 (p=0.003) and 0.909 (p=0.001), respectively. These findings highlight the importance of cultivating both learning discipline and interest in learning to improve Mathematics performance among sixth-grade students, suggesting implications for educational practice and policy. Highlight: Correlation: Learning discipline, interest impact Mathematics outcomes. Quantitative study: 35 sixth graders' data analyzed using SPSS. Emphasizes fostering discipline, interest to enhance Mathematics performance. Keyword: Learning discipline, Interest in learning, Mathematics learning outcomes, Sixth-grade students, Quantitative correlational study

Peningkatan Prestasi Belajar Siswa Melalui Penguatan Disiplin Belajar dan Dukungan Orang Tua

This research aims to investigate the effect of strengthening study discipline and parental support on students' academic achievement at SD Negeri Cengkong 1. The research method employed was a correlational survey with quantitative analysis. Data were collected from sixth-grade students through questionnaires for primary data and from students' report cards for secondary data. The research design utilized multiple regression analysis. The findings revealed a significant influence of study discipline and parental support collectively on students' academic achievement, with a 50.3% joint effect. Furthermore, both study discipline and parental support individually exhibited significant positive effects on students' academic achievement. Study discipline positively contributed to students' academic achievement, indicating that higher levels of study discipline corresponded to higher academic performance. Similarly, parental support significantly influenced students' academic achievement, suggesting that greater parental support led to better academic performance. In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of study discipline and parental support in enhancing students' academic achievement.

Interactive games for meaningful learning in the area of Language and Literature

Given the need to promote more dynamic and participatory educational strategies, a proposal for interactive games as a pedagogical resource to improve learning around Language and Literature in sixth grade students of Basic Education is proposed. The methodology used consisted in applying surveys and interviewing 57 students and two teachers of an Educational Unit in order to design and carry out a series of educational sessions that incorporated interactive games as an integral part of the teaching-learning process. The main results showed that, although a significant percentage of students (60%) use interactive games for language and literature learning, there is still a considerable proportion (40%) who are not familiar with this type of resource. The use of different interactive resources, such as Wordwall, Arbolabc, Liveworksheets and Jiwsaplanet, varied among students (8%-49%), with some being more popular than others. There is a different perception of teachers (50%-50%) on the level of knowledge to apply interactive games in the classroom, highlighting differences in the evaluation of aspects such as the definition of clear objectives, transformation of learning into a game, proposal of specific challenges, among others. This study concludes that the detailed proposal to improve learning in Language and Literature using interactive games represents an innovative and effective approach to promote meaningful and participatory learning in the classroom.

National Achievement Test (NAT) Results and Academic Performance: A Comparative Analysis of Filipino Proficiency across Two Academic Years

This study thoroughly examines the academic performance and NAT outcomes of sixth-grade students across seven elementary schools in Baclayon, Bohol, during 2013-2014 and 2014-2015. It aims to identify correlations between academic performance and NAT results, specifically in the Filipino subject. Using documentary analysis, the research explores students' learning competencies and provides insights into school performance in Baclayon, a historically significant town with a diverse economic landscape and notable tourist attractions. The focus is on NAT results in the Filipino subject for Grade Six students in seven elementary schools, employing a collaborative approach for data collection and analysis. The findings unveiled intriguing insights, indicating that while School I consistently demonstrated high mean scores and mean performance scores across the two academic years, enrollment fluctuations were observed, notably in School V. Further analysis delineated proficiency levels in the Filipino subject, highlighting areas of strength and potential improvement. The correlation analysis between academic performance and NAT results in the Filipino subject yielded nuanced outcomes, elucidating the multifaceted dynamics at play in educational settings. These findings illuminate pathways for enhancing educational strategies and outcomes in Baclayon's elementary schools, contributing to broader discussions on educational reform and improvement. In 2013-2014 and 2014-2015, Schools I, II, and IV had high enrollment, while VII, VI, III, and VII had low enrollment. Despite good performance in Filipino, NAT results didn't align in Baclayon's elementary schools. This hints that the NAT might not reflect Filipino proficiency accurately. High-enrollment schools likely have effective strategies, while low-performing ones may need to boost enrollment and academics.

DEVELOPMENT OF WEB-BASED INTERACTIVE LEARNING MEDIA ON THE TOPIC OF LIVING ORGANISM ADAPTATION USING THE TUTORIAL METHOD

Web-based interactive learning media is a computer-based learning media, which was developed to provide feedback on user activities. The aim of this research is to develop appropriate web-based interactive learning media, on material on the adaptation of living things, using the tutorial method. The type of research used is Research and Development with the ADDIE development model, which has stages of analysis, design, development, implementation and evaluation. The test subjects were sixth grade students at SDN Sungai Miai 11 Banjarmasin. Data collection techniques were carried out using questionnaire techniques and test techniques. The data analysis techniques used are descriptive statistics and n-gain. The result of this research is web-based interactive learning media on the adaptation of living things using the tutorial method, which was developed using HTML, CSS, Bootstrap, Javascript, JSON, Firebase, Canva and Netlify technology. The results of the analysis show that the learning media material content is valid, in the very high category, while the media validity value is in the high category. The results of the practicality test show that the media is declared practical, with student responses on average agreeing. The media is also declared effective, with an n-gain value for medium qualifications and average student learning outcomes above the KKM. Therefore, web-based interactive learning media, on the adaptation of living things, using the tutorial method is declared suitable for use as supporting media in science learning in sixth grade.

Context matters: the importance of extra-mathematical knowledge in solving mathematical problems

Extra-mathematical knowledge is often overlooked when investigating mathematical skills. This study explores profiles of mathematical skills and associations with extra-mathematical knowledge and the understanding of complex sentences. The study involved 1,288 sixth-grade students (52.1% male) from 95 classes in 58 schools in Estonia. Students completed a math test as part of their regular lessons. The profiles of mathematical skills included students’ calculation skills, standard problems, and complex problems. Three distinct profiles of students emerged: students with high skill levels, students with average skill levels, and students with low skill levels. Students with high mathematical skills also had high extra-mathematical knowledge showing the crucial role of understanding the context of the math tasks in addition to having good mathematical skills.

Effect of A Multi-Model Based Intervention on Bullying Prevention through Peer Advocacy

Peer advocacy and bullying prevention programs are ergonomic and helpful in protecting students from the effects of bullying. This study aims to evaluate the effect of model-based strategies on bullying prevention through peer advocacy. Model-based strategies combine STAC strategies, Logic Model and ABCD Model in the current study. This study was conducted as a quasi-experimental design with pre- and post-tests. Its population consisted of sixth-grade students in four primary schools in Wales, UK. Students were included in the intervention (n = 38) and control (n = 38) groups. An education program was given to the intervention group in three sessions with the strategies based on two models. Data analysis consisted of Chi-square, Repeated Measures ANOVA, and t-tests. Data were collected with a personal information form, the Student-Advocates Pre-and Post-Scale (SAPPS), and the Friendship Qualities Scale. The SAPPS and Self-Confidence to Intervene to Stop Bullying sub-scale post-test mean scores increased significantly (p < .0.05) after the education. An increase was observed in the averages of scales and subscales scores in the intervention group. The program was effective in developing students’ advocacy, building self-confidence, increasing awareness of bullying information, and using Strategies information to prevent bullying. Model-based configuration may have made the program more effective.

Tahapan Implementasi Gerakan Literasi Dalam Menguatkan Keterampilan Critical Thinking Siswa

Literacy movement is one of the important activities to encourage the development of students' thinking patterns. This research aims to explain and describe the stages of implementing the literacy movement in strengthening the critical thinking skills of sixth-grade students at Larangan Badung 1 State Elementary School, Pamekasan Madura. The research method used a qualitative method with a case study design. Data collection techniques: interviews with the school principal, class teachers, and students; then documentation and observation. Data analysis techniques: data condensation, presentation, and verification. Data validity checking with: source and technique triangulation. The results show that the stages include: familiarization by reading for 15 minutes before learning, development by regular visits to the public library, activities such as summarizing, discussions, and group work, application by reading together from teaching materials, digital literacy implementation using laptops and projectors for teaching material delivery, and product stage in the form of short story writing. Supporting factor: students' enthusiasm. Inhibiting factor: students not following instructions. Conclusion: the stages of digital literacy application proceed systematically. Research contribution: to ensure the sustainability and development of literacy movement activities.

Development of Mathematical Connection Ability Instruments for Elementary School Students

This research is motivated by the importance of mathematical connection skills. Based on the results of previous studies, it is known that the mathematical connection ability of elementary school students is still low. This study aims to develop a mathematical connection ability instrument suitable for elementary school students. This study uses the research and development method. The samples are 27 sixth-grade students at an elementary school in Purwakarta who were selected through purposive sampling. The ability instrument that has been made is in the form of an essay that consists of five open-ended questions about geometry. The indicators developed in preparing the questions were related to the ability of mathematical connections. The questions were constructed according to expert suggestions followed by a trial to see its validity, reliability, difficulty index, and discriminating power. Results show that the validity and reliability of the test instrument developed in this study are 0.73 and 0.84, implying that the test instrument has high validity and reliability. Questions numbers 1,3, and 5 have a high level of difficulty, while numbers 2 and 4 have a very high level of difficulty. The discriminating power for question number 1 is 47.62% (good), number 2 is 28.57% (fair), number 3 is 38.10% (good), number 4 is 28.57% (fair), and number 5 is 57.14% (very good).Thus, the five test items can measure mathematical connections in learning mathematics on geometry topics for fifth-grade elementary school students and are appropriate for further research instruments on similar subjects and variables.&#x0D; Keywords: Mathematical Connection, Elementary School, Students