Exploring geometric shape recognition in early childhood: Insights from the pre-operational stage
Abstract
Purpose: At the age of 2-7 years, based on Piaget's theory, children are in the pre-operational stage. At this stage, children have the ability to understand mathematical concepts concretely through sensory and interactive experiences. Strategies are needed to improve the children's cognitive abilities. This research aims to provide an overview of early childhood cognitive development at the pre-operational stage in the introduction of geometric shapes.
Method: Researchers used a descriptive qualitative approach to interpret and explain patterns of behavior of children who are in the pre-operational stage. Data collection techniques included structured interviews and observations with checklists based on Jean Piaget’s cognitive theory. Respondents in this study were selected using a purposive sampling technique. The respondents consisted of five children aged 6-7 years from the Islamic Kindergarten 'Aqila who were not familiar with geometric shapes.
Result: The results of this study indicate that children who are the subjects of the study exhibit behavior patterns consistent with Piaget's theory in the pre-operational stage, Children are able to recognize shapes through interactive learning experiences.
Conclusion: Based on the results, it is necessary for parents and teachers to pay attention to the child's cognitive development stage when teaching geometric concepts.
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References
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