The Effect of Using Assemblr Edu App on Reading Comprehension of Grade Eight Students of SMPN 1 Mandalawangi

Abstract

This research aimed to investigate the effect of using the Assemblr Edu App on the reading comprehension of grade eight students at SMPN 1 Mandalawangi. The study employed a quasi-experimental method with a pre-test and post-test control group design. The participants consisted of 60 students, divided into two classes: an experimental class taught using Assemblr Edu and a control class taught using conventional methods. The research instrument was a multiple-choice test of 25 items measuring reading comprehension indicators, including main idea, specific information, inference, vocabulary, and reference. The results of the post-test showed that the experimental group achieved a higher average score (M = 74.93) compared to the control group (M = 67.87). The results of the Independent Samples t-Test indicated a significant difference (Sig. = 0.002 < 0.05), and the effect size (Cohen’s d = 0.854) indicated a large practical effect. The findings confirm that the use of the Assemblr Edu App significantly improves students’ reading comprehension. The effectiveness of this AR-based media is supported by Mayer’s Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning, which emphasizes the role of dual channels (visual and verbal) in facilitating comprehension. This study suggests that Assemblr Edu is a promising tool to enhance reading skills through visual and interactive content.