MEMBANGUN KARAKTER ANAK USIA DINI: TELAAH PENDIDIKAN PIAUD DALAM PANDANGAN THOMAS LICKONA

Abstract

This study explores character education implementation in early childhood education at RA Diponegoro 2 Penaruban, located in Bukateja District, Purbalingga Regency. The purpose of this research is to examine how character values are integrated into learning activities based on Thomas Lickona’s perspective on moral development, focusing on moral knowing, moral feeling, and moral action. The research employs a qualitative approach with descriptive methods, involving observations, interviews with teachers, and document analysis to collect data. The findings reveal that character education is carried out through daily routines, thematic learning, and teacher role modeling, emphasizing values such as responsibility, honesty, politeness, and cooperation. The educational environment and parental involvement also support character development effectively. The study concludes that RA Diponegoro 2 Penaruban successfully implements comprehensive character education, fostering moral growth in young children. Recommendations include continuous teacher training and further research on parental roles and quantitative measurement of character growth. This research contributes to understanding practical approaches to early childhood character education in Islamic-based institutions.