Enhancing elementary literacy through flip PDF: Developing interactive reading materials for engaged learning

Reading is a critical skill in education, forming the foundation for acquiring knowledge and critical thinking. However, challenges persist in Indonesian elementary schools, where traditional printed materials often fail to engage students or meet diverse learning needs. This study aimed to develop and evaluate interactive reading materials using Flip PDF software to enhance literacy among third-grade students at SDN 6 Kabila. The materials were designed to align with the Merdeka Curriculum and incorporate multimedia elements such as videos, animations, and interactive exercises. The study employed a Research and Development (R&D) approach using the 4D model (Define, Design, Develop, Disseminate). Initial observations highlighted the inadequacy of conventional materials, leading to the development of Flip PDF-based resources validated by experts. The materials achieved high validity scores (95–98.75%) and demonstrated practicality during small and large group trials (93–95%). Results showed significant improvements in student engagement, reading comprehension, and classroom participation. Teachers responded positively, highlighting the materials’ adaptability and ease of use. These findings underscore the potential of digital tools in transforming literacy education by fostering active learning. Future research should explore scaling these resources to diverse contexts, addressing technological barriers, and integrating offline functionalities for broader accessibility. This study provides a model for leveraging technology to enhance literacy education in elementary schools.