UNS – Students from the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP) at Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Surakarta carried out a Teaching Assistance Program at KB & TK Kartini Kids Surakarta. This initiative, part of the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) program, integrated digital technology as an innovative approach to early childhood education. The program was implemented by students of the Early Childhood Education Program (PG PAUD).
The MBKM Grant Team 1.053 from the PG PAUD Program chose the theme, “Developing Critical Thinking Skills in Early Childhood Through Digital-Based Learning.” The teaching program ran for four months, from August to December 2024. The team members included Sukma Bening Khoiriyah, Risa Damayanti, Sofa Yulianti, Zalfaliyya Feodora Yulianto, and Puri Anisatul Afifah, under the guidance of their field supervisor, Dr. Anayanti Rahmawati, S.Psi., Psi., M.A.
The program’s opening ceremony was attended by the foundation’s chairperson, teachers, and representatives of parents from KB & TK Kartini Kids. Nyi Khaeriyah, the chairperson, expressed her appreciation for the collaboration.
“I’m very pleased with this collaboration, as it allows us and the UNS team to learn and grow together. I hope you gain valuable experiences and new knowledge during your time here. May all the programs run smoothly,” Miss Ria said, as Khaeriyah is fondly called.
Several methods were utilized during the teaching program. Interactive PowerPoint presentations served as a learning medium, offering an engaging audiovisual experience for young learners. This method aimed to present educational topics in a more captivating way, emphasizing active participation by the children.
Another innovative tool used was Coding For Kids, featuring the ScratchJr application to introduce basic coding concepts to children. This interactive medium was designed to stimulate critical thinking skills.
The Animated Drawing web platform transformed children’s drawings into moving animations, while 3D holograms were used to create an enjoyable learning experience in science and mathematics for early childhood students.
The MBKM Grant Program also extended its benefits to parents through a Digital Parenting Workshop. Themed “Creating a Safe Digital Space for Early Childhood,” the workshop was led by Dr. Anayanti Rahmawati, S.Psi., Psi., M.A., providing parents with insights on effective digital parenting strategies.
Additionally, a digital-based Early Childhood Development Screening Program (DDTK) was introduced to facilitate the monitoring of students’ growth. The program included eye, dental, oral, and ear health screenings conducted by healthcare professionals. Regular measurements of height, weight, and head circumference were documented digitally using a Flip Book, which parents could easily access via their gadgets.
To further encourage creativity, UNS students organized a Bento Challenge, where children created balanced and nutritious meals. The MBKM activities concluded with a grand performance, featuring a musical drama and traditional dances by KB & TK Kartini Kids students, followed by a Grand Closing ceremony.
Humas UNS
Reporter: R. P. Adji
Editor: Dwi Hastuti
