Teacher Assistance Program for Early Childhood Education in Literacy Instruction Using the Candaria Model (Integrative Storytelling and Creative Activities) in Pangalengan District, Bandung Regency
Helmi Aziz, Dinar Nur Inten, Dewi Mulyani, Zahra Dinda Purnama, Amelia Listianti Putri

Universitas Islam Bandung

Abstract

The development of pedagogical competence for early childhood education (PAUD) teachers in literacy learning is crucial in the Industry 4.0 era, where educators are expected to be adaptive, creative, and innovative. This Community Service Program aimed to enhance the competencies of PAUD teachers in Pangalengan District, Bandung Regency, through the implementation of the Candaria Model (Storytelling while Creating), a literacy learning method based on Qur^anic stories integrated with creative activities such as drawing, crafting, and dramatization. The model was developed based on a preliminary needs assessment and implemented through a structured program involving intensive training, sustained mentoring, and ongoing monitoring of its classroom application.

A total of 36 PAUD teachers participated in the program and were divided into two groups: the experimental group received the Candaria Model intervention, while the control group continued using conventional learning methods. The program^s effectiveness was evaluated using a quasi-experimental design with a pretest-posttest control group format. Statistical analysis revealed a significant improvement (p < 0.05) in the experimental group^s knowledge, instructional skills, and pedagogical attitudes regarding Qur^anic-based literacy instruction.

The results indicate that the Candaria Model is effective in strengthening PAUD teachers^ pedagogical competence and enriching literacy learning experiences for early childhood students. This model offers a promising approach for future training initiatives, particularly in promoting contextually relevant and engaging literacy education aligned with spiritual and moral values.

Keywords: Candaria storytelling-based model- Creative learning activities- Early childhood literacy education- Islamic values in education- Literacy teaching innovation- Teacher professional development-

Topic: Islamic Education