Early Childhood Education: Contextual Thematic Teaching Materials Based on Classroom Activities

Contextual learning binds the content of the subjects in the classroom with the context of the children's daily lives. Learning in early childhood classes (0-8 years) is carried out using the thematic method, which combines several learning materials into one subject. Thematic teaching resources in early childhood classes are still limited in number and rely on textbooks provided by the government. This study aims to develop activity-based teaching materials to assess contextual thematic learning. This research method uses model development research by Borg and Gall with data collection techniques using panels and questionnaires on expert tests, one to one test, small-group test, and large-group test. The research data analysis technique used mixed methods, namely quantitative data tabulated in the form of percentages and described in the qualitative form. The expert test provides recommendations that the instrument can be used to assess student teaching materials and teacher guidance. Teaching materials and teacher guides are suitable for use, and further testing is carried out. Based on the results of the one-to-one test, small-group test, and large-group test, both teaching materials and teacher guides are readability and eligibility with an average of 85.00. The implication of this research, it is suggested that early childhood education institutions where the pilot can use teaching materials and teacher guides in developing and assessing activity-based contextual thematic learning for further research.&#x0D; Keywords: Early Childhood Education, Contextual Thematic, Classroom Activities&#x0D; References:&#x0D; Aini, Q., &amp; Relmasira, S. C. (2018). Penerapan Pembelajaran Tematik Integratif Berbasis Kontekstual untuk Meningkatkan Keaktifan dan Hasil Belajar Siswa Kelas 1 SD. 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