Digital geometry worksheets with an agro-tourism context: A catalyst for rational thinking in generation alpha

Abstract

Implementing the Merdeka curriculum and strengthening character are necessary to foster rationalism in the Alpha generation, which is highly dependent on technology. One way is to develop geometry teaching materials based on the local agrotourism context, which has been proven effective in stimulating students' problem-solving skills. This study proposes to develop digital teaching materials on geometry content, grounded in the agritourism context, that are valid, practical, and effective in supporting students' rationalism in the Alpha generation in junior high school. The research method used is a design research type development study, consisting of 3 stages: the preparation phase, the prototyping phase, and the evaluation phase. The research subjects consisted of 80 seventh-grade students from SMPN 13 Palembang, representing Generation Alpha learners who are familiar with digital technology and visual-based learning. The study was conducted over one academic semester and followed the three stages of design research: preparation, prototyping, and evaluation. Data were collected through work-throughs, student interviews, and tests. The results show that digital worksheets are valid, practical, and effective, supporting students' rational thinking skills. The validity aspect was demonstrated through expert evaluations indicating that the digital worksheet met pedagogical and contextual standards, including content accuracy, alignment with learning objectives, clarity of instructions, contextual relevance, and technical presentation, with only minor revisions recommended. The practicality aspect emerged from the one-to-one and small-group trials, where students were able to use the worksheet independently, navigate the task flow clearly, and show positive engagement with the digital activities. Digital worksheets also have the following characteristics: they contain questions that encourage students to provide supporting reasons for their answers, are packaged in digital form, and are easy to use. The digital worksheets developed have been effective in supporting students' rationalism values.