Development of a Financial Education Model for Children: A Comparative Approach Between Gamification and Conventional Teaching

Pengembangan Model Edukasi Keuangan Anak Melalui Pendekatan Perbandingan Gamifikasi dan Pengajaran Konvesional

Abstract

This study aims to develop and evaluate a financial education model for elementary school children through a comparative approach between gamification-based learning and conventional teaching methods. Financial literacy is a crucial competency for children's future, yet traditional pedagogical approaches often fail to bridge the gap between abstract financial concepts and children's cognitive development. This community service program implemented two distinct learning approaches at two different elementary schools SD Bintang, which utilized the "FINOPOLY" gamification method, and SDN 002 North Bontang, which employed conventional teaching methods. The gamification approach incorporated an interactive board game simulation designed to teach financial concepts including saving, budgeting, emergency funds, asset management, and risk mitigation. The conventional approach delivered the same material through lecture-based instruction and worksheets. Pre-test and post-test assessments were administered to measure knowledge improvement. Results indicate that the gamification approach demonstrated superior engagement and knowledge retention compared to conventional methods. The FINOPOLY game successfully transformed abstract financial concepts into concrete, experiential learning, fostering intrinsic motivation and social-emotional skills. This study provides evidence that gamification-based financial education offers a more effective and engaging alternative to conventional teaching for elementary school children. The findings contribute to the development of innovative financial literacy programs in primary education settings.