Integrasi Sekolah Alam dan Ekowisata sebagai Model Pembelajaran Kontekstual bagi Anak Usia Dini
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35719/preschool.v6i2.168Keywords:
nature school, ecotourism, early childhood educationAbstract
This study aims to explore the integration of nature-based schools and ecotourism as an innovative learning model for early childhood education. The research focuses on identifying how outdoor learning environments combined with ecotourism activities can enhance children’s holistic development, particularly in cognitive, social-emotional, and environmental awareness aspects. A qualitative descriptive method was employed with data collected through observation, interviews, and documentation involving teachers, parents, and children in selected early childhood institutions. The analysis technique applied was thematic analysis to capture patterns and insights from the learning activities. The findings indicate that the integration of nature school concepts with ecotourism provides meaningful learning experiences that encourage children’s active participation, problem-solving skills, and appreciation of nature. Furthermore, this model fosters collaboration between schools, families, and local communities, making education more contextual and sustainable. It is concluded that integrating nature schools and ecotourism into early childhood education not only enriches the learning process but also contributes to the development of environmentally responsible behavior from an early age.
Abstrak
Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengeksplorasi integrasi sekolah berbasis alam dan ekowisata sebagai model pembelajaran inovatif bagi pendidikan Anak Usia Dini. Fokus penelitian adalah mengidentifikasi bagaimana lingkungan belajar luar ruang yang dipadukan dengan kegiatan ekowisata dapat meningkatkan perkembangan holistik anak, khususnya pada aspek kognitif, sosial-emosional, dan kesadaran lingkungan. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah deskriptif kualitatif dengan pengumpulan data melalui observasi, wawancara, dan dokumentasi yang melibatkan guru, orang tua, dan anak pada lembaga PAUD terpilih. Teknik analisis yang digunakan adalah analisis tematik untuk menangkap pola dan temuan dari kegiatan pembelajaran. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa integrasi konsep sekolah alam dengan ekowisata memberikan pengalaman belajar yang bermakna, mendorong partisipasi aktif anak, keterampilan pemecahan masalah, serta apresiasi terhadap alam. Selain itu, model ini juga memperkuat kolaborasi antara sekolah, keluarga, dan masyarakat setempat sehingga pendidikan menjadi lebih kontekstual dan berkelanjutan. Disimpulkan bahwa integrasi sekolah alam dan ekowisata dalam pendidikan Anak Usia Dinitidak hanya memperkaya proses pembelajaran, tetapi juga berkontribusi pada pengembangan perilaku peduli lingkungan sejak usia dini.
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