Discovering the Properties of Light through the Ray of Light Learning in the Reggio Emilia Approach in Early Childhood Education

Abstract

This research is driven by teachers' understanding that optics learning is a difficult subject to be introduced to early childhood students. The reasons why it has not been delivered in early childhood education are the limited sources of teaching materials, the lack of understanding in the importance of learning the subject, and the lack of knowledge about how to orient learning activities according to children's ages. Other factors causing the learning of the subject has not been well-implemented are the lack of supporting facilities and infrastructures, limited innovation, motivation, and creativity of teachers in implementing learning that utilizes light and the surrounding environment. The purpose of this study is to find out learning activities that can be carried out to investigate the properties of light through the ray of light atelier in the Reggio Emilia approach in early childhood education. This study employed a qualitative research model that produces information in the form of descriptive data records by providing clear and systematic descriptions. The data collection techniques used were literature studies and structured interviews. The results indicated that learning the properties of light is not a difficult material for children if carried out appropriate to the children's developmental stage by providing new, interesting and fun learning experiences for children.