THE EFFECT OF THE USE OF CHATGPT ON THE CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS OF GRADE XI TKJ STUDENTS AT SMKN 1 BOYOLANGU

Abstract

The development of artificial intelligence (AI) has increasingly penetrated the field of education, notably through the use of ChatGPT as a learning support tool. This study aims to determine the effect of ChatGPT usage on the critical thinking skills of Grade XI students majoring in Computer and Network Engineering (TKJ) at SMKN 1 Boyolangu. Critical thinking is a vital skill in the information era, encompassing the ability to identify, evaluate, and make rational decisions. The integration of ChatGPT into learning is expected to stimulate the development of these skills through in-depth, text-based interactions. This research employs a quantitative approach with a quasi-experimental method, using a Non-Equivalent Control Group Design. The sample consisted of two classes, each with 35 students: one experimental group utilizing ChatGPT during the learning process and one control group not using it. Data was collected through a Likert-scale questionnaire measuring two main variables: the intensity of ChatGPT usage (independent variable) and students’ critical thinking ability (dependent variable). The research instruments were tested for validity and reliability and were statistically proven to meet standard requirements. Data analysis using an independent t-test in SPSS version 25.0 revealed that both pre-test and post-test significance values were above the 0.05 threshold. This indicates that there was no significant difference in critical thinking ability between students who used ChatGPT and those who did not. Therefore, the null hypothesis (H₀) is accepted and the alternative hypothesis (H₁) is rejected. These findings suggest that using ChatGPT does not significantly impact students' critical thinking abilities. Although ChatGPT holds potential as a learning aid, its use alone may not directly enhance students’ critical thinking without being accompanied by appropriate pedagogical strategies. Thus, integrating technologies like ChatGPT into educational settings must be carried out systematically and contextually to effectively support students’ cognitive development. This study recommends that educators continue to guide students in verifying information and encourage critical analysis of AI-generated content.