Transforming environmental education with augmented reality: A model for learning outcome

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of using augmented reality (AR) in environmental education to enhance student learning outcomes. The research is firmly situated within the field of Environmental Education, focusing on how innovative technologies can support students’ understanding of environmental issues. The research employs an experimental design with a one-group pretest-posttest, involving 133 students from different academic backgrounds. The sample was selected using simple random sampling, and the Slovin formula was applied to determine the sample size, ensuring a representative group. Data were analyzed using paired sample t-tests and Kolmogorov-Smirnov normality tests to determine the significance of the results and assess the data distribution. The findings indicate that the use of augmented reality in environmental education has a positive impact on improving student learning outcomes, particularly in terms of engagement, retention, and understanding of ecological concepts. Students exposed to AR technology demonstrated a significant improvement in their ability to visualize and apply environmental principles. This study contributes empirical evidence on the benefits of AR technology in education, particularly in helping students grasp complex environmental issues in a more interactive and immersive manner. Moreover, the research supports the development of more interactive and engaging technology-based teaching methods, highlighting AR as an effective tool to enhance student involvement in learning. The originality of this research lies in the application of augmented reality in environmental education, an area still underexplored in Indonesia. This innovative approach offers a promising avenue for enriching students' learning experiences, making education more relevant, engaging, and aligned with modern technological advancements.