Dedy Ari Nugroho, Eny Kusdarini, Awanis Akalili, Mukhamad Murdiono
This study aims to examine how the NUSANTARA mobile application can improve students’ critical thinking skills in understanding citizenship issues. The background of this study is based on the need for an innovative learning approach that utilizes digital technology to shape reflective citizenship awareness and engagement. The study was conducted in the Pancasila and Civic Education (PPKn) Study Program, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Lambung Mangkurat University, in the Wetland Environmental Citizenship Course, using a quasi-experimental design. A total of 60 students were divided into two groups: an experimental group that used the NUSANTARA application and a control group that received conventional learning. For four weeks, the experimental group engaged with a digital citizenship module containing issue scenarios, reflective questions, and interactive media based on local and global contexts. Critical thinking skills were measured using a standardized test designed to assess analytical, evaluative, and reflective skills in the context of citizenship. Additionally, qualitative data were obtained through student reflection journals and focus group discussions. The results showed a significant increase in critical thinking scores in the experimental group compared to the control group. Qualitative data also showed an increase in citizenship awareness, critical questioning skills, and digital participation of students who used the application. This study concludes that the NUSANTARA application is effective in encouraging higher-order thinking skills and active involvement in citizenship learning in higher education. © 2026 by the authors.
Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Yogyakarta State University, Indonesia; Faculty of Law, Yogyakarta State University, Indonesia
