Dr. Ichsan Anshory AM, M.PD (Photo: Special) |
The Praja muda karana (scout) has been making history in education in Indonesia since it was inaugurated through Presidential Decree Number 238 of 1961. Then, it was revised through Law Number 12 of 2010. Its existence is an important element in building the character and morals of students. Currently, Scouting has become an extracurricular activity that must be attended, especially by elementary school students.
As a lecturer in Elementary School Teacher Education (ESTE) at the University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM), Dr. Ichsan Anshory AM, M.PD emphasized Scouts must be attended due to the clear legalities. It is also due to the fact that this activity can enrich the value of education. It provides a new dimension where the learning process is not only fixated on material and classrooms.
"Through Scout activities, the students are taught to be confident, independent, responsible, and caring. This is to support students in facing real life," said Ichsan.
He continued, in the context of education in elementary school, Scouts use a game-based learning method. It aims to create a learning atmosphere that is more fun, practical, interesting, healthy, and directed. He emphasized that Scout education in elementary schools is designed by considering children's developmental characteristics, combining educational elements with positive activities.
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Among the exciting aspects taught in Scout activities is togetherness. Through activities such as singing chants or games, children are taught to care about others and share experiences with their friends.
"Scouts is not only an organization but also a place to form an inclusive personality and care for the surrounding community," he explained.
The importance of teaching Scouts in elementary school can be seen in developing new skills, such as First Aid in Accidents. The students are taught how to respond to accidents individually and in groups. They are also taught how to set up a tent through Persami activities.
Scouts allow students to develop their ability to socialize with the surrounding environment. Group activities such as community service, conflict resolution through deliberation, and recognizing nonverbal cues are integral to this learning. All activities are conducted in an engaging atmosphere involving people with various backgrounds, creating an interactive learning experience for the participants.
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"It is important to develop the spirit of leadership. Scouts also act as a regeneration forum in developing ideal leaders who have a patriotic spirit, good personality, and uphold the nation's noble values," added the lecturer, who is originally from Madura.
Teaching Scouts in primary schools is also crucial since this activity is an integral part of the curriculum—a positive step in preparing the younger generation to face the challenges of life in the future. " Scouts becomes a fun educational adventure. It takes children beyond academic knowledge, as it provides a solid foundation for building positive character and caring attitudes throughout life," he concluded. (*lai/wil/put)