UPAYA MENINGKATKAN MINAT DAN KONSENTRASI ANAK USIA 5-6 TAHUN MELALUI REWARD KELOMPOK B DI RA MUSLIMAT NAHDLATUL UMMA

Abstract

Interest and concentration are important aspects of early childhood learning because they influence children’s engagement in learning activities. Children who demonstrate strong interest and concentration find it easier to understand the material, follow the teacher’s instructions, and complete learning activities. Based on the results of initial observations in Group B at RA Muslimat Nahdlatul Umma, there are still children who lack enthusiasm for learning, are easily distracted, and are unable to maintain their concentration until the activity is completed. These conditions indicate the need for learning strategies that can increase children’s interest and concentration. One strategy used in this study is the use of rewards as a form of positive reinforcement. Rewards are given in the form of praise, stickers, applause, or simple gifts as appreciation for the children’s efforts and positive behavior during the learning process. This study aims to describe the process of implementing rewards in learning and to determine the increase in interest and concentration among 5–6-year-old children following the provision of rewards in Group B at RA Muslimat Nahdlatul Umma. The method used was Classroom Action Research (CAR) based on the Kemmis and McTaggart model, conducted in two cycles. Each cycle consisted of the planning, implementation, observation, and reflection stages. The research subjects consisted of 15 children in Group B. Data collection techniques included observation, interviews, and documentation. The data were analyzed descriptively by comparing the results from the pre-cycle, Cycle I, and Cycle II to determine the increase in the children’s interest and concentration after the interventions were implemented. The results showed that in Cycle I, the success rate reached 48.88%, with 7 children meeting the achievement criteria. After improvements were made in Cycle II, the success rate increased to 84.44%, with 13 children meeting the success indicators.