Ainara Journal (Jurnal Penelitian dan PKM Bidang Ilmu Pendidikan) https://journal.ainarapress.org/index.php/ainj <p><strong>Ainara Journal (Journal of Research and Community Service in the Field of Education)</strong> (e-ISSN 2746-7767) is a scientific journal accredited <strong>SINTA 3 for the 2025–2029 period</strong>, previously accredited <strong>SINTA 6 (2023–2025)</strong>, under the Regional Resource Research and Development Institute. Since 2024, it has been published quarterly (March, June, September, and December). The journal focuses on Learning Innovation, ICT-based Educational Management, Learning Evaluation, Development of Instructional Techniques, Models and Tools, Educational Technology, Curriculum Development and Evaluation, Teaching and Learning, Learning System Design, and Community Service in Education.</p> Lembaga Penelitian dan Pengembangan Sumberdaya Wilayah (elrispeswil) en-US Ainara Journal (Jurnal Penelitian dan PKM Bidang Ilmu Pendidikan) 2746-7767 The Effectiveness of Problem-Based Learning on Students’ Learning Outcomes in the Al-Qur’an Hadith Subject https://journal.ainarapress.org/index.php/ainj/article/view/1314 <p>This study aims to examine the effectiveness of constructivism-based Problem Based Learning (PBL) in improving students’ cognitive learning outcomes in the Al-Qur’an Hadith subject. The research employed a quantitative approach using a quasi-experimental nonequivalent control group design. The sample consisted of 35 eleventh-grade students selected through total sampling, including 17 students in the control group and 18 in the experimental group. The instrument used was a multiple-choice test that had been validated and tested for reliability. The results showed that the posttest mean score of the experimental class (86.11) was higher than that of the control class (79.12). The N-Gain analysis indicated moderate improvement in both groups, with scores of 0.53 for the experimental group and 0.36 for the control group. The t-test revealed a significant difference between the two groups (p &lt; 0.05), particularly in analysis (C4) and evaluation (C5) skills. These findings indicate that constructivism-based PBL can support the development of higher-order thinking skills in Al-Qur’an Hadith learning.</p> Elok Riska Wardani Nasrodin Nasrodin M. Endy Fadlullah Imam Mashuri Copyright (c) 2026 Elok Riska Wardani, Nasrodin Nasrodin, M. Endy Fadlullah, Imam Mashuri https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 2026-03-30 2026-03-30 7 1 1 12 10.54371/ainj.v7i1.1314 Information and Communication Technology (ICT)–Based Educational Transformation in Indonesia: A Systematic Literature Review https://journal.ainarapress.org/index.php/ainj/article/view/1316 <p>This study aims to analyze the implementation of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in formal education in Indonesia, particularly regarding trends in technology adoption, the types of technologies most commonly used, and their impact on learning effectiveness. The study employed a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) method based on the PRISMA guidelines, analyzing 100 articles indexed in the Scopus database. The findings indicate that ICT implementation is still predominantly concentrated at the higher education level, while early childhood and primary education remain relatively underdeveloped due to limitations in infrastructure and digital literacy. The most frequently utilized technologies include Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), Learning Management Systems (LMS), and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Most studies highlight the positive impact of ICT on improving learning outcomes, conceptual understanding, and higher-order thinking skills (HOTS), as well as enhancing student motivation and participation through interactive technologies. However, the application of ICT in the psychomotor domain remains limited. These findings suggest that ICT-based educational transformation requires stronger support through the development of teachers’ competencies, equitable infrastructure distribution, and the selection of technologies aligned with pedagogical objectives.</p> Fathirma'ruf Fathirma'ruf Asmedy Asmedy Copyright (c) 2026 Fathirma'ruf Fathirma'ruf, Asmedy Asmedy https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 2026-03-30 2026-03-30 7 1 13 28 10.54371/ainj.v7i1.1316 Systematic Literature Review: Deep Learning Research in Physics Education at the Junior High School Level https://journal.ainarapress.org/index.php/ainj/article/view/1322 <p>The advancement of artificial intelligence has increased research on deep learning in junior high school physics education, yet comprehensive reviews of its trends and implementation remain limited. This study aims to analyze publication trends, research focuses, implementation forms, and challenges of deep learning research in physics education over the past four years. The study employed a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) method involving the identification, selection, and synthesis of articles based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The findings indicate that deep learning research mainly focuses on improving conceptual understanding, reducing misconceptions, enhancing learning motivation, and developing data-driven adaptive learning systems. Its implementation has evolved from simulation-based applications and neural network–based diagnostic systems to the integration of augmented reality, educational chatbots, and learning analytics to support personalized and real-time learning. The study highlights that successful adoption depends on technological readiness, teacher pedagogical capacity, and digital infrastructure.</p> Sri Endah Pujiningrum Endang Purwaningsi Robi Kurniawan Copyright (c) 2026 Sri Endah Pujiningrum, Endang Purwaningsi, Robi Kurniawan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 2026-03-30 2026-03-30 7 1 29 40 10.54371/ainj.v7i1.1322 Development of a 3D Animal Miniature Learning Media Based on Augmented Reality Using Web Edu Assembler to Improve Elementary School Students’ Science Learning Outcomes https://journal.ainarapress.org/index.php/ainj/article/view/1302 <p>Science learning in elementary schools still faces challenges in presenting abstract concepts, including metamorphosis, which often makes it difficult for students to understand the stages of animal transformation comprehensively. This study aims to develop and evaluate the feasibility, practicality, and effectiveness of a 3D animal miniature learning media based on Augmented Reality (AR) using Web Edu Assembler for the topic of complete and incomplete metamorphosis for third-grade elementary students. The study employed a Research and Development method using the ADDIE model, which includes analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation stages. The effectiveness test was conducted using a one-group pretest–posttest design involving 55 third-grade students. The results indicate that the developed media is highly feasible based on expert validation from material experts (96.4%), media experts (98%), and language experts (100%). The media was also considered highly practical based on teacher assessments and student responses. The average pretest score of 52.20 increased to 93.09 in the posttest, with an N-Gain score of 0.8250, categorized as high.</p> Lulu Aulia Karimah Sudi Dul Aji Arnelia Dwi Yasa Copyright (c) 2026 Lulu Aulia Karimah; Sudi Dul Aji, Arnelia Dwi Yasa https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 2026-03-30 2026-03-30 7 1 41 50 10.54371/ainj.v7i1.1302 A Qualitative Study on the Point System: An Integration Strategy between Student Affairs Management and the School Discipline Enforcement Team (PDS) in Fostering Student Discipline Compliance https://journal.ainarapress.org/index.php/ainj/article/view/1312 <p>This study aims to analyze the integration strategy between Student Affairs Management and the School Discipline Enforcement Team (PDS) through a point system in fostering student discipline compliance at SMA Negeri 1 Sragen and to identify implementation challenges. The study employed a qualitative approach with field research and a phenomenological perspective. Data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation, and analyzed using the Miles and Huberman interactive model. The results indicate that the integration is implemented through the POAC framework with a transparent and systematic point system applied through programs such as morning greetings and sudden inspections. The system functions not only as a disciplinary control mechanism but also as an educational and humanistic character-building strategy. Challenges include limited supervision time, differing perceptions among educators, and students’ family backgrounds. Therefore, strengthening coordination and parental involvement is essential.</p> Wahyu Putri Kinanti Nurul Latifatul Inayati Copyright (c) 2026 Wahyu Putri Kinanti, Nurul Latifatul Inayati https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 2026-03-30 2026-03-30 7 1 51 65 10.54371/ainj.v7i1.1312 Analysis of Student Affairs Management in Character Development Based on Al-Islam and Muhammadiyah Values https://journal.ainarapress.org/index.php/ainj/article/view/1313 <p>This study aims to analyze the implementation of student affairs management in character development based on Al-Islam and Muhammadiyah (AIK) values at SMA Muhammadiyah 1 Surakarta and to identify its supporting factors and challenges. The study employed a qualitative approach with a phenomenological design. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations of student activities and religious habituation, and documentation, and analyzed thematically using data reduction, display, and conclusion drawing. The results indicate that the integration of student affairs management with AIK values significantly contributes to the development of students’ religious character, discipline, responsibility, and social awareness. Implementation is carried out through integrated programs, religious habituation, and continuous supervision. However, challenges include coordination issues and limited research scope. Mitigation efforts involve strengthening collaboration among schools, parents, and innovative educational programs. The findings highlight that student affairs management serves as a strategic instrument in strengthening value-based school culture in the Society 5.0 era.</p> Riska Aoliya Sari Nurul Latifatul Inayati Copyright (c) 2026 Riska Aoliya Sari, Nurul Latifatul Inayati https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 2026-03-30 2026-03-30 7 1 66 79 10.54371/ainj.v7i1.1313 The Democratic Leadership Model of School Principals in Improving Educational Quality https://journal.ainarapress.org/index.php/ainj/article/view/1315 <p>This study aims to examine the implementation of a democratic leadership model of school principals in improving educational quality at SMK Negeri 3 Klaten and to identify its challenges. The study employed a qualitative approach with a single case study design. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation, and analyzed using data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing with triangulation techniques. The results show that the principal applies democratic leadership through participatory decision-making, stakeholder involvement, strengthening teacher professionalism through SIM-PKB and training, and creating a conducive and accountable school climate. This implementation contributes to improved learning quality and public trust. However, challenges include hierarchical school culture, differing stakeholder interests, administrative burdens, and limited external support.</p> Maliya Rahma Nur Fatikha Nurul Latifatul Inayati Copyright (c) 2026 Maliya Rahma Nur Fatikha, Nurul Latifatul Inayati https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 2026-03-30 2026-03-30 7 1 80 88 10.54371/ainj.v7i1.1315 The Effect of the Project-Based Learning Model Based on Entrepreneurship Professional Learning Community (PJBL-EPLC) with a Deep Learning Approach on Enhancing Critical Thinking Skills and Entrepreneurial Attitudes https://journal.ainarapress.org/index.php/ainj/article/view/1327 <p>The low level of students’ critical thinking skills and entrepreneurial attitudes in biology learning indicates the need for a contextual and meaningful learning model. This study aims to examine the effect of the Project-Based Learning model based on an Entrepreneurship Professional Learning Community (PjBL-EPLC) with a Deep Learning approach on students’ critical thinking skills and entrepreneurial attitudes at SMAN 2 Bengkulu City. This study employed a quasi-experimental method with a pretest-posttest nonequivalent control group design. The sample consisted of two classes, each with 36 students, selected using purposive sampling. The instruments included a critical thinking test and an entrepreneurial attitude questionnaire. Data were analyzed using inferential statistics based on prerequisite test results. The findings revealed significant differences in critical thinking skills (p = 0.006) and entrepreneurial attitudes (p = 0.001) between the experimental and control groups. These results indicate that the PjBL-EPLC model with a Deep Learning approach is more effective in improving students’ critical thinking skills and entrepreneurial attitudes compared to conventional learning.</p> Elta Resmawati Siti Darwa Suryani Copyright (c) 2026 Elta Resmawati, Siti Darwa Suryani https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 2026-03-30 2026-03-30 7 1 89 99 10.54371/ainj.v7i1.1327 Development of a Website-Based BUBUMA Digital Learning Media to Enhance Elementary School Students’ Conceptual Understanding https://journal.ainarapress.org/index.php/ainj/article/view/1333 <p>The low level of elementary school students’ conceptual understanding of abstract topics such as Earth and Space exploration highlights the need for learning media that can present concepts in a concrete, interactive, and accessible manner. This study aims to develop, validate, and evaluate the effectiveness of a website-based BUBUMA digital learning media in improving sixth-grade students’ conceptual understanding at SDN Nongkosawit 02. This research employed a Research and Development (R&amp;D) approach using the ADDIE model, consisting of Analyze, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation stages. Product feasibility was assessed through expert validation involving media, content, and language experts, while effectiveness was tested using a one-group pretest-posttest design involving 20 students. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, paired sample t-test, and N-Gain analysis. The results indicate that the BUBUMA website-based media is highly feasible. Furthermore, there was a significant improvement in students’ conceptual understanding, as reflected by the increase in mean scores from 56.00 to 82.50 (p = 0.001) with an N-Gain of 0.59 (moderate category). These findings suggest that website-based digital media is effective in supporting the learning of abstract concepts in elementary education.</p> Syntia Eka Putri Setioyuliani Ipin Aripin Copyright (c) 2026 Syntia Eka Putri Setioyuliani, Ipin Aripin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 2026-03-30 2026-03-30 7 1 100 112 10.54371/ainj.v7i1.1333 The Effect of Traditional Games (Bentengan and Boy-Boyan) and Learning Interest on Elementary School Students’ Physical Fitness https://journal.ainarapress.org/index.php/ainj/article/view/1324 <p>The suboptimal physical fitness of elementary school students indicates the need for more engaging physical education strategies. Traditional games can serve as alternative learning activities that enhance both physical activity and students’ learning interest. This study aims to examine the effects of traditional games (Bentengan and Boy-boyan) and learning interest on students’ physical fitness, as well as their interaction. A 2×2 factorial experimental design was employed with 20 students selected using upper and lower 27% grouping. Physical fitness was measured using the Indonesian Physical Fitness Test (TKJI), while learning interest was assessed through a Likert-scale questionnaire. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA. The results show that both the type of traditional game (F = 15.207; p = 0.001) and learning interest (F = 7.759; p = 0.013) have significant effects on physical fitness, with a significant interaction effect (F = 18.241; p = 0.001). Bentengan proved more effective than Boy-boyan in improving students’ physical fitness.</p> Ardo Yulpiko Putra Lolia Manurizal Rian Diusmar Copyright (c) 2026 Ardo Yulpiko Putra, Lolia Manurizal, Rian Diusmar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 2026-03-30 2026-03-30 7 1 113 122 10.54371/ainj.v7i1.1324 The Effect of Artificial Intelligence on Learning Outcomes through Students’ Self-Efficacy: A Study of Office Management and Business Services Program Students https://journal.ainarapress.org/index.php/ainj/article/view/1329 <p>The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education is increasing; however, empirical evidence on its relationship with learning outcomes through internal psychological mechanisms, particularly self-efficacy in vocational education, remains limited. This study aims to examine the effect of AI usage on students’ learning outcomes, both directly and indirectly through self-efficacy. An explanatory quantitative approach was employed involving 108 students from the Office Management and Business Services program at SMKN 2 Buduran, selected through proportionate stratified random sampling. Data were collected using Likert-scale questionnaires and report card documentation and analyzed using SEM-PLS. The results indicate that AI usage has a positive and significant effect on both learning outcomes and self-efficacy. Self-efficacy also significantly influences learning outcomes and mediates the relationship between AI usage and learning outcomes. These findings highlight the importance of integrating AI not only to enhance information access but also to strengthen students’ psychological aspects.</p> Nilam Dela Ardiatna Syafitri Triesninda Pahlevi Copyright (c) 2026 Nilam Dela Ardiatna Syafitri, Triesninda Pahlevi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 2026-03-30 2026-03-30 7 1 123 132 10.54371/ainj.v7i1.1329 Development of a Project-Based Learning-Oriented Practicum Guide on the Respiratory System to Enhance Junior High School Students’ Critical Thinking Skills https://journal.ainarapress.org/index.php/ainj/article/view/1331 <p>This study was motivated by the lack of science practicum guides on the respiratory system that are systematically integrated with Project-Based Learning (PjBL) to enhance junior high school students’ critical thinking skills. This study aims to develop and evaluate the validity, practicality, and effectiveness of a PjBL-based practicum guide. A Research and Development (R&amp;D) approach using the ADDIE model was employed, combined with a comparative design involving experimental and control groups. The participants were eighth-grade students from two junior high schools in Central Bengkulu. Data were collected using expert validation sheets, student response questionnaires, and pretest–posttest instruments. The results indicate that the developed practicum guide achieved very high validity (media: 96%; material: 94%) and excellent practicality (97.45%). The effectiveness test showed that the experimental group outperformed the control group, with a significant difference (p &lt; 0.001). These findings confirm that the PjBL-based practicum guide is effective in improving students’ critical thinking skills.</p> Genny Anggriani Siti Darwa Suryani Merri Sri Hartati Copyright (c) 2026 Genny Anggriani, Siti Darwa Suryani, Merri Sri Hartati https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 2026-03-30 2026-03-30 7 1 133 142 10.54371/ainj.v7i1.1331 The Effectiveness of PECS in Improving Expressive Communication Skills among Second-Grade Students with Autism in Special Schools https://journal.ainarapress.org/index.php/ainj/article/view/1341 <p>Children with autism spectrum disorder often experience difficulties in expressive communication, which affect their ability to convey needs, initiate interactions, and express emotions, thereby impacting learning processes and social participation in school. One widely used approach is the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS), a visual-based communication method that enables children to convey messages functionally through picture exchange. This study aims to examine the effectiveness of PECS in improving expressive communication skills among second-grade students with autism at SLBN Sidomulyo. A quantitative approach with a Single Subject Research (SSR) design using an A–B–A pattern was employed. Data were collected through structured observation and analyzed using visual analysis within and across conditions. The results show an increase in expressive communication skills from 20% in the initial baseline phase to 50% during intervention, and 80% in the follow-up baseline phase. The absence of significant data overlap indicates consistent behavioral change after the intervention. These findings confirm that PECS is effective and produces sustained improvements.</p> Rustika Rustika Heni Herlina Annisa Purwanggi Copyright (c) 2026 Rustika Rustika, Heni Herlina, Annisa Purwanggi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 2026-03-30 2026-03-30 7 1 143 153 10.54371/ainj.v7i1.1341 Political Ethics Education and Student Political Culture: Legal Awareness as a Predictor of Democratic Participation among University Students https://journal.ainarapress.org/index.php/ainj/article/view/1309 <p>This study aims to examine the relationship between political ethics education and legal awareness on students’ political culture within the context of university organizations. A correlational quantitative design with a cross-sectional approach was employed. The participants consisted of 30 undergraduate students actively involved in campus organizations, selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a four-point Likert-scale questionnaire that met validity and reliability requirements (α = 0.79–0.85). Multiple regression analysis was conducted after fulfilling classical assumptions. The results indicate that political ethics education has a positive and significant effect on students’ political culture (β = 0.621; p &lt; 0.01), as does legal awareness (β = 0.412; p &lt; 0.05). Simultaneously, both variables explain 85.5% of the variance in political culture (R² = 0.855; p &lt; 0.001). These findings suggest that the internalization of political ethics and legal understanding plays a crucial role in shaping students’ democratic participation. However, the results should be interpreted cautiously due to the limited sample size and non-random sampling.</p> Saryono Saryono Sunarso Sunarso Nasiwan Nasiwan Copyright (c) 2026 Saryono Saryono, Sunarso Sunarso, Nasiwan Nasiwan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 2026-03-30 2026-03-30 7 1 154 164 10.54371/ainj.v7i1.1309 The Effect of Teachers’ Pedagogical Competence and Learning Facilities on Academic Achievement with Information Technology Usage as a Moderating Variable among Office Management Students https://journal.ainarapress.org/index.php/ainj/article/view/1328 <p>This study aims to examine the effects of teachers’ pedagogical competence and learning facilities on students’ academic achievement, with information technology usage as a moderating variable within the framework of Social Cognitive Theory. A quantitative explanatory research design was employed. The population consisted of 125 Office Management students, with a sample of 96 selected using proportional stratified random sampling. Data were collected through questionnaires, observations, and report card documentation, and analyzed using SEM-PLS with SmartPLS 4. The results indicate that teachers’ pedagogical competence (β = 0.596; p &lt; 0.001) and learning facilities (β = 0.530; p &lt; 0.001) have positive and significant effects on academic achievement. However, information technology usage negatively moderates the relationship between pedagogical competence and achievement (β = -0.155; p = 0.002), suggesting that higher technology use may weaken the direct influence of teachers, possibly due to increased learner autonomy. These findings highlight the dual role of technology in shaping learning dynamics.</p> Novia Ainur Rohmah Siti Sri Wulandari Copyright (c) 2026 Novia Ainur Rohmah, Siti Sri Wulandari https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 2026-03-30 2026-03-30 7 1 165 177 10.54371/ainj.v7i1.1328 The Effect of Teacher Professional Development and School Management on Teacher Performance in Senior High Schools https://journal.ainarapress.org/index.php/ainj/article/view/1330 <p>Teacher performance is a key determinant of instructional quality and school effectiveness. However, previous studies have often examined teacher professionalism and school management separately, resulting in limited empirical evidence on their combined effects, particularly in the context of senior high schools at the district level. This study aims to examine the influence of teacher professional development and school management on teacher performance, both partially and simultaneously. A quantitative explanatory design with multiple linear regression analysis was employed. The population consisted of 80 teachers, all of whom were included as the sample using total sampling. Data were collected through Likert-scale questionnaires that met validity and reliability requirements and analyzed using SPSS. The results indicate that teacher professional development (β = 0.549; p &lt; 0.001) and school management (β = 0.386; p &lt; 0.001) have positive and significant effects on teacher performance. Simultaneously, both variables explain 72.7% of the variance in teacher performance (R² = 0.727; p &lt; 0.001). These findings highlight the importance of synergy between individual professional capacity and effective school management.</p> Wiwik Utami Alhadi Yan Putra Pahlawan Pahlawan Copyright (c) 2026 Wiwik Utami, Alhadi Yan Putra, Pahlawan Pahlawan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 2026-03-30 2026-03-30 7 1 178 191 10.54371/ainj.v7i1.1330