Transformative Learning in Islamic Elementary Education: The Role of Magic Box Media in Enhancing Students’ Numeracy Skills

Developing numeracy skills in primary education is essential for strengthening students’ mathematical literacy and problem-solving abilities. However, early mathematics learning is often dominated by teacher-centered approaches that limit students’ active engagement. This study aims to examine the effect of Magic Box learning media on improving the numeracy skills of first-grade students at MI Al-Azhar Menganti. The research employed a quantitative approach with a true experimental design using a pretest–posttest control group. The sample consisted of 41 students divided into an experimental class (20 students) and a control class (21 students). Data were collected through observation, questionnaires, and numeracy tests related to addition and subtraction of whole numbers. The results showed a significant improvement in the experimental class, with posttest scores ranging from 69 to 95, while the control class scored between 56 and 81. The Independent Samples T-test indicated a significance value of 0.000 < 0.05 and a t-value of 5.374 > 2.086, confirming a significant difference between the groups. These findings demonstrate that Magic Box learning media effectively enhances students’ numeracy skills through active and contextual learning experiences..