Workshop on Creating Mathematics Learning Media Based on Recycled Materials for Elementary School Teachers

Abstract

Basic education is the primary foundation for developing students' logical, critical, and creative thinking skills. However, limited resources in special needs areas (DBK) remain a significant challenge, particularly in providing contextual and economical learning media. This community service initiative was motivated by the need for elementary school teachers in the DBK area to improve their skills in designing engaging, applicable, and recyclable mathematics learning media. The program aimed to increase teachers' capacity in developing creative learning media utilizing recyclable materials readily available in the surrounding environment. This program employed a participatory approach through training workshops, discussions, and hands-on practice. The theories underlying this program included constructivist theory in mathematics learning (Piaget, 1973; Vygotsky, 1978) and a contextual education approach (Johnson, 2002). Evaluation results showed a significant increase in teachers' understanding and skills after the training. The program had a positive impact on teachers' readiness to present mathematics materials creatively and environmentally friendly. The conclusions of this activity indicate that training in creating recyclable media is an effective strategy for improving the quality of mathematics learning in the DBK area.