PENINGKATAN KECERDASAN VISUAL SPASIAL ANAK USIA DINI MELALUI METODE PEMBELAJARAN LOOSE PART DENGAN MENGGUNAKAN BAHAN ALAM DI TK NEGERI BANTEA

Abstract

This study aims to improve the visual-spatial intelligence of early childhood through
the loose part learning method using natural materials at Bantea State Kindergarten. Visual
spatial intelligence is the ability of children to recognize, organize, and arrange visual
elements into meaningful forms. This study is a classroom action research (CAR) conducted
in two cycles with stages of planning, implementation, observation, and reflection. The
research subjects consisted of 11 children at Bantea State Kindergarten. Data was collected
through observation using visual-spatial assessment sheets based on child development
indicators. The results of the study showed that there was an improvement in each cycle. In
the pre-cycle stage, only 2 children (18.18%) reached the Developing as Expected (DAE)
category. After implementing the loose parts method using natural materials in the form of
collages, the number of children who reached the DAE category increased to 4 children
(36.36%) in cycle I, and increased significantly to 8 children (72.73%) in cycle II.
In the pre-cycle stage, the majority of children were still in the Not Yet Developing (NYD)
and Beginning to Develop (BD) categories. After receiving intervention in cycle I and
refinement in cycle II, there was a significant increase in the number of children who reached
the Developing as Expected (DAE) category. In cycle II, 8 children (72.73%) successfully
demonstrated visual-spatial abilities in line with developmental indicators, while the number
of children in the ND category decreased to only 1 child (9.09%). This increase shows that
loose part-based learning with natural materials can provide appropriate stimulation for
children in developing an understanding of the concepts of shape, color, size, direction, and
patterns. Additionally, this activity also provides space for children to express themselves
freely, improve concentration, and strengthen eye coordination. It can be concluded that the
application of the loose parts learning method using natural materials is effective in improving
the visual-spatial intelligence of early childhood. Learning designed through exploratory
activities such as arranging, sticking, and rearranging objects made from natural materials
(grains) encourages children to develop visual perception, spatial skills, and creative and
logical thinking. These activities allow children to explore, recognize shapes, patterns, and
spaces, and encourage them to think creatively through enjoyable hands-on experiences.