INNOVATION Journal of Education and Learning

Purpose: to examine the effectiveness of numeracy-based think-pair-share (TPS) in improving grade V students’ learning motivation in IPAS compared with conventional instruction. Method: this study used a quasi-experimental design with 20 grade V students in experimental and control groups. Data were collected through pretest and posttest motivation questionnaires and analyzed using N-Gain. Findings: showed that numeracy-based TPS improved students’ learning motivation, with a mean increase of 21.39 points and an N-Gain of 0.68, compared with 10.12 points and an N-Gain of 0.32 in the control group. These findings suggest that numeracy-based TPS is a promising approach to enhancing motivation in elementary IPAS learning. Implications: this study highlights the potential of numeracy-based TPS as an innovative instructional strategy to enhance student motivation through active participation, peer collaboration, and meaningful numeracy activities in elementary IPAS learning. Originality: lies in integrating numeracy literacy with the think-pair-share (TPS) model to enhance students’ learning motivation in elementary IPAS, an approach that remains limited in previous research.

Purpose: to explore the use of nature-based loose parts in supporting young children’s creativity through material exploration, independent choice, experimentation, and open-ended play at PAUD Kiddy Kid Center, Banda Aceh. Method: this study employed a qualitative descriptive approach at PAUD Kiddy Kid Center, Banda Aceh. Participants included four young children and their teacher, selected purposively. Data were collected through observation, semi-structured interviews, and documentation, then analyzed using the interactive model of Miles, comprising data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. Findings: nature-based loose parts provided opportunities for children to express creativity through material exploration, independent selection, experimentation, material combination, imagination, and the development of diverse creations. All four observed children demonstrated the identified creative behaviors, although their participation pace varied. Teachers facilitated these processes through careful material preparation, safety supervision, and open-ended guidance. Despite challenges in material storage and hygiene, nature-based loose parts offered an accessible and flexible learning resource that supported creative engagement beyond the final product. Implications: PAUD educators can use accessible natural materials to create open-ended learning activities that encourage children’s creativity, independence, and exploration. Originality: lies in its process-oriented examination of how children explore, select, combine, and transform nature-based loose parts, emphasizing creative processes rather than finished products.