Project-Based Learning through Animal Collage Activities in Early Childhood Education: A Case Study

Akhmad  Makhrus Ali; Ayu Rahmawati; Nihayatul Mahsuda

Authors

Akhmad Makhrus Ali Universitas Islam Lamongan, Indonesia
Ayu Rahmawati Universitas Trunodjoyo Madura, Indonesia
Nihayatul Mahsuda Universitas Trunodjoyo Madura, Indonesia

Keywords:

Project-based learning, Creativity, Active engagement, Early childhood education, Art-based learning

Abstract

Purpose – This study aims to examine the implementation of project-based learning (PjBL) through animal collage activities and explore its contribution to children’s creativity and active engagement in early childhood education.

Design/methods/approach – This study employed a descriptive qualitative approach with a field study design at RA Bakti Telang. The participants consisted of one teacher and ten children aged 5–6 years in Group B. Data were collected through classroom observations, teacher interviews, and documentation of animal collage activities conducted across three learning sessions. Data were analyzed through data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing.

Findings – The findings indicate that PjBL was implemented through five main stages: project planning, activity implementation, material exploration, artwork creation, and reflection. The teacher functioned primarily as a facilitator by providing children with opportunities to select animals, choose natural and recycled materials, and organize the collage-making process individually or collaboratively. The activities generated high levels of children’s enthusiasm and active participation while supporting collaboration, fine motor development, imagination, creativity, and responsibility. The hands-on project also enabled children to express their ideas visually and develop an understanding of animal characteristics through direct experience.

Conclusion – Project-based learning through animal collage activities provides a meaningful, contextual, and child-centered learning experience in early childhood education. The approach enables children to actively participate in learning while providing opportunities to develop creativity, fine motor skills, collaboration, imagination, and responsibility.

Contribution – This study contributes to the early childhood education literature by demonstrating how simple art-based projects using natural and recycled materials can be integrated into PjBL to create meaningful learning experiences. The findings highlight the potential of animal collage projects as an accessible pedagogical strategy for promoting children’s creativity and active engagement while connecting learning with hands-on exploration and environmental materials.

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