Bridging the Digital Divide in Elementary Science Education

A Needs Analysis for Developmentally Appropriate E-Learning Media

Abstract

The integration of technology-enhanced learning in elementary education remains challenging due to limited developmentally appropriate digital media. This study examines stakeholder needs for GlideApps-based e-learning development in elementary IPAS education, specifically for the five senses topic. A convergent parallel mixed-methods design was employed, collecting data from 608 fifth-grade students and 32 teachers across 18 elementary schools in Jejawi District through validated questionnaires utilizing five-point Likert scales. Data were analyzed using descriptive percentages and thematic analysis across six dimensions: pedagogical, technical, cognitive, aesthetic, sociocultural, and evaluative. All stakeholder groups demonstrated high needs (79-91%), with evaluation aspects achieving the highest priority (91.10%), followed by cognitive support (87.20%) and aesthetic design (86.60%). Students exhibited holistic need patterns with minimal variance across dimensions (2.4 percentage points), while teachers prioritized cognitive aspects (85.38%). Sociocultural integration, though still needed (79.30%), ranked relatively lower across all groups.  Findings reveal that elementary learners approach technology-mediated learning more holistically than older students, requiring balanced attention to evaluation systems, multimedia content, visual appeal, technical accessibility, pedagogical alignment, and cultural relevance. The study provides a replicable framework for needs analysis in elementary educational technology contexts and offers evidence-based priorities for developing interactive digital learning media that authentically serve elementary students' developmental characteristics while supporting Indonesian science education goals.