Virtual Zoo: Learning Media Based on Augmented Reality for Early Childhood

Abstract

Early Childhood Education is designed as the first level of education given to children to understand their surroundings. The learning process was carried out through a combination of learning and playing. One of the basic competencies stipulated in the 2013 PAUD curriculum is KD 3.8, consisting of knowledge of the natural environment, particularly animals. Conventionally, the introduction of animals to these young students took place by mentioning their names and their characteristics, or taking them out to a field, a zoo or an animal park. To design a sufficiently representative learning experience in class, this research aimed at developing a virtual zoo, presenting animals in 3D shapes. As such, students can remain in class while they are able to recognize animals as well as when they visit the zoo. This development research was conducted using the ADDIE method, with the following stages: 1) Analysis, 2) Design, 3) Development, 4) Implementation, and 5) Evaluation. The development of this learning media eventually helped children not only learn to recognize animals, with both characteristics and environment, but also do it online.