Fostering Students' Creative Thinking through Media Education: Integrative Approaches in the Digital Era

Sari

Amid rapid technological advancements, integrating media education into learning is increasingly vital for fostering students' creative thinking. This study investigates the effectiveness of media-based instructional strategies in enhancing creativity, critical thinking, and student engagement. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research combined experimental teaching using multimedia tools with surveys and interviews involving students and educators. Findings indicate that students exposed to media-integrated instruction showed significant improvements in creative problem-solving, critical analysis, and digital expression. They also exhibited higher motivation and active participation, highlighting the motivational benefits of interactive digital platforms. Teachers observed that students became more reflective and independent in evaluating digital content, further supporting media education’s positive influence on learner autonomy. The study emphasizes the value of digital media, online platforms, and multimedia resources in cultivating creative capacities and enriching educational experiences. However, challenges such as inadequate digital infrastructure and limited teacher readiness were noted. These limitations underscore the need for targeted professional development and supportive educational policies to ensure effective media integration. In response, the paper recommends incorporating structured media education into school curricula and enhancing teacher competencies through ongoing training. By addressing implementation barriers and leveraging the full potential of media tools, educators can create dynamic, student-centered learning environments that align with the demands of the digital era.