Development and Validation of an AR-PBL Local Wisdom-Based Colloid Chemistry Module

Colloidal chemistry is often perceived as an abstract and difficult topic because many concepts involve microscopic phenomena that cannot be directly observed. This study aimed to develop and validate an Augmented Reality (AR)-based, Problem-Based Learning (PBL)-integrated, local-wisdom-oriented module for colloidal chemistry and to examine students' learning interest. This Research and Development (R&D) study used the 4D model (Define, Design, Develop, Disseminate), limited to the first three stages. The module was validated by three experts on teaching-material/media aspects (design, presentation, application, language, and graphics) and content aspects (accuracy and language). After revision, it was trialed with 36 undergraduate students in the Basic Chemistry course at the Department of Chemistry, Universitas Negeri Medan. Learning interest was measured using a 20-item questionnaire covering interest, attention, enjoyment, and engagement. Teaching-material/media validation yielded a mean of 3.85 (Very Valid), and content validation yielded 3.97 (Very Valid). The questionnaire showed excellent reliability (Cronbach's alpha = 0.985), with an overall mean learning-interest score of 3.69 on a 1–4 scale (very good). These findings indicate that the AR-based, PBL-integrated, local-wisdom-oriented module is valid, feasible, and associated with positive learning interest in colloidal chemistry. Further research is needed to examine its effects on cognitive learning outcomes using a more rigorous design.