Technological innovation in inquiry learning to enhance critical thinking skills: A bibliometric analysis

Authors

  • Rahmatta Thoriq Lintangesukmanjaya Universitas Negeri Surabaya, Indonesia
    ID Indonesia
  • Binar Kurnia Prahani Universitas Negeri Surabaya, Indonesia
    ID Indonesia
  • Dwikoranto Dwikoranto Universitas Negeri Surabaya, Indonesia
    ID Indonesia
  • Muhammed Akif Kurtuluş Alanya Alaaddin Keykubat University, Turkey
    TR Turkey

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.62672/joease.v4i3.125

Keywords:

Critical Thinking, Inquiry Learning, Physics, Reflective Practice, Technology

Abstract

Studies on the integration of inquiry-based learning, reflective practice, and critical thinking in physics education remain relatively limited and have not been comprehensively described. This study aims to analyze research trends in inquiry learning and technology to improve critical thinking skills in 21st-century practices. This study employed a bibliometric review, combined with the PRISMA framework, to systematically identify research trends, thematic developments, and knowledge structures in the field. Based on 185 documents from 2021 to 2025, there was a significant increase in publications and citations. Furthermore, there is a correlation between the application of the inquiry learning model and technology integration in improving students' critical thinking skills. Inquiry learning, which positions students as active agents in discovering and constructing knowledge through questions, investigations, and reflection, is highly effective in improving critical thinking skills, especially in fields that require an understanding of complex concepts, such as physics. This effectiveness is further optimized when integrated with reflective practice, which helps students consciously review the learning process, identify strengths and weaknesses, and formulate improvement strategies. The importance of utilizing technology, particularly AI in the form of AR, VR, and interactive simulations, is evident in its significant support for both aspects through adaptive, interactive learning environments. It is recommended to develop technology-based learning tools that comprehensively integrate inquiry syntax with the stages of reflective practice to support the sustainable development of critical and reflective thinking skills in the 21st century.

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Published

12-08-2026

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Lintangesukmanjaya, R. T., Prahani, B. K., Dwikoranto, D., & Kurtuluş, M. A. (2026). Technological innovation in inquiry learning to enhance critical thinking skills: A bibliometric analysis. Journal of Environment and Sustainability Education, 4(3), 461–474. https://doi.org/10.62672/joease.v4i3.125

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Vol. 4 No. 3 (2026)

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