Implementation of Small Big Media as a Learning Medium to Introduce the Concept of Size to Early Childhood at Mawar Merah Maga Lombang PAUD

Abstrak

Early childhood cognitive abilities in understanding early mathematical concepts, particularly the concept of size, are often hampered by abstract and less interactive learning methods. At Mawar Merah Maga Lombang Preschool, limited manipulative media is the primary reason for children's low understanding of the dimensions of large and small. This study aims to test the effectiveness of implementing Small Big media in improving understanding of the concept of size in early childhood. The research method used was quantitative with a Pre-Experimental design (One-Group Pretest-Posttest Design) on 28 students. The research instruments used were structured observation sheets and demonstration tests. The results showed a significant increase in average scores between before and after using Small Big media. Data analysis using a t-test demonstrated a significant value, empirically proving that this manipulative media is able to strengthen children's cognitive schemas in accurately distinguishing sizes. In conclusion, Small Big media is an effective educational tool for optimizing mathematical cognitive abilities in early childhood. Implementation of this media is recommended as a standard learning medium at the Early Childhood Education level to optimally facilitate children's visual-tactile learning styles.