Teachers’ Readiness and Students’ Needs in Developing Local Wisdom-Based IPAS Teaching Materials with a Deep Learning Approach for Critical Thinking

Abstract

Teachers’ Readiness and Students’ Needs in Developing Local Wisdom-Based IPAS Teaching Materials with a Deep Learning Approach for Critical Thinking. Critical thinking is an essential 21st-century competency, yet many Indonesian elementary students still demonstrate low proficiency in this area. This study investigates the readiness of teachers and the needs of students regarding the development of IPAS (Science and Social Studies) teaching materials that integrate local wisdom with a deep learning approach to enhance critical thinking skills. Using a descriptive qualitative survey design, data were collected through interviews, focus group discussions, observations, and documentation involving 42 elementary school teachers and 77 students in Makassar. The findings reveal that most teachers possess a moderate level of pedagogical and technological readiness to adopt deep learning strategies, including concept-based instruction, reflective learning, and the integration of local culture into contextual learning. Students express a clear preference for interactive and meaningful learning activities that connect science concepts to real-life experiences and cultural identity. However, several challenges were identified, including time constraints, varied student abilities, and limited support systems. Additionally, existing teaching materials often lack contextual relevance and fail to stimulate higher-order thinking. This research provides empirical insights that can guide the development of innovative IPAS teaching materials tailored to the local context and aligned with the goals of the Merdeka Curriculum. The study recommends teacher training, inclusive material design, and strengthened stakeholder support to optimize implementation. Ultimately, the integration of local wisdom and deep learning offers a promising strategy to foster critical thinking and student engagement in elementary education.