Boosting Numeracy Through Differentiated Outdoor Learning in Mathematics: A Learning Material Development Study

This research and development study aimed to develop, validate, and determine the effectiveness of differentiated learning materials in Outdoor Learning Mathematics (OLM) for enhancing students’ numeracy skills. Following the 4D development model (Define, Design, Develop, and Disseminate), the research meticulously crafted a learning module, Student Worksheets (LKPD), and a numeracy skills test package tailored for seventh-grade students. The materials underwent rigorous validation by expert lecturers and teachers, confirming their validity with all components achieving a ‘Valid’ category (Va ≥ 3). Their practicality was established through classroom observations, demonstrating an average implementation score of 83.37% (‘Good’ category). The effectiveness was primarily assessed via a quasi-experimental design involving an experimental class (n=29) and a control class (n=27) at SMP Nahdlatuth Thalabah Kesilir Wuluhan. Although pre-test and post-test data were not normally distributed (Shapiro-Wilk Sig. < 0.05), their variances were homogeneous (Levene’s Sig. ≥0.05 for “Based on Mean”). A Mann-Whitney U test revealed a significant difference in post-test numeracy skills between the experimental and control classes (Asymp. Sig. (2-tailed) = 0.009, p < 0.05), indicating a positive influence of the developed materials. The experimental class also showed higher classical mastery (75%) and a greater proportion of students reaching ‘proficient’ numeracy levels. These findings suggest that the differentiated OLM materials are highly effective in improving students’ numeracy skills through contextual and engaging problem-based learning experiences.