UTILIZING VISUAL MEDIA TO ENHANCE INDONESIAN VOCABULARY ACQUISITION IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION (KINDERGARTEN)
Sintia Wati Dewi- Juanda

1 Pendidikan Bahasa dan Sastra Indonesia, Fakultas Keguruan dan Ilmu Pendidikan, Universitas Terbuka, Tanggerang, Indonesia

2 Pendidikan Bahasa dan Sastra Indonesia, Fakultas Keguruan dan Ilmu Pendidikan, Universitas Samawa, Sumbawa, Indonesia

Abstract

This study aims to provide a comprehensive description of the utilization of picture media and to analyze its impact on enhancing Indonesian vocabulary acquisition among early childhood learners at TK Al-Barokah. The study is grounded in the pedagogical need to bridge the gap between abstract linguistic concepts and young learners^ predominantly concrete modes of thinking through the integration of visual learning strategies. A descriptive qualitative approach was employed to capture the naturalistic dynamics of classroom interaction and learning processes. Data were collected through methodological triangulation, including in-depth interviews with the Group B classroom teacher, participatory observations, and visual documentation of learning activities, particularly collage-based tasks. The research subjects consisted of one classroom teacher and a group of early childhood learners. The findings reveal that the use of picture media was systematically implemented and functioned as an effective visual scaffold, transforming vocabulary instruction into a more engaging, interactive, and developmentally appropriate learning experience aligned with children^s pre-operational cognitive stage. The integration of visual stimuli not only facilitated comprehension but also significantly improved the qualitative aspects of vocabulary mastery. This improvement was evidenced by increased learner attention, heightened motivation, and enhanced ability to recall and apply new vocabulary in meaningful contexts. Furthermore, the activation of visual memory and the incorporation of hands-on activities, such as collage-making, contributed to deeper cognitive processing and retention. Despite certain challenges, particularly in managing classroom dynamics in a relatively large group setting, the study concludes that picture media serve as an effective mediating tool in early childhood language learning. Therefore, it is recommended that educators strengthen their pedagogical competencies, especially in classroom management and the creative diversification of instructional media, in order to maximize the potential of visual-based learning in early childhood education.

Keywords: early childhood, Indonesian vocabulary, picture media

Topic: Ethonopedagogy (Local Wisdom, Socio Culture)