Utilization of Smart Eco Farming for Outdoor Learning at SDN Ledoknongko

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An innovation in education is once again present through the Smart Eco Farming program implemented at SD Negeri Ledoknongko, Sleman Regency, Yogyakarta. This program is part of the Community Service activities initiated by the research team from the University of ‘Aisyiyah (UNISA) Yogyakarta. Using hydroponic-based outdoor learning methods, the program aims to improve students’ cognition and reduce post-pandemic academic stress.

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought huge challenges to the education system, especially for elementary school students who have to adapt to online learning methods. As a result, many students have experienced a decrease in learning motivation and difficulty in adapting back to face-to-face learning. Seeing this phenomenon, the research team from UNISA Yogyakarta initiated the Smart Eco Farming program as a more interactive and fun learning solution.

Smart Eco Farming is a technology-based farming method combined with environmental sustainability principles. In this program, students of SDN Ledoknongko are invited to learn firsthand about hydroponic techniques, from seed sowing, plant care, to harvesting. The hydroponic system was chosen due to its ease of application and its benefits in teaching students about modern agriculture.

The program began with an in-class education session on the basics of hydroponics. Furthermore, students are given the opportunity to directly practice planting and caring for plants in hydroponic installations that have been prepared in the school area. Not only improving academic understanding, this activity also aims to hone students’ social, motor and emotional skills.

The evaluation results showed an increase in students’ understanding of hydroponics as well as a positive impact on their psychological well-being. Based on surveys conducted before and after the program, students who participated in this activity experienced an increase in learning motivation and a decrease in academic stress levels.

“We see very positive changes in the children. They are more enthusiastic about learning and better understand the concept of modern agriculture. In addition, they are also more active and confident,” said Ika Afifah Nugraheni, S.P., M.Biotech, Head of the Community Service Team from UNISA Yogyakarta.

This activity also received appreciation from the school and parents. Head of SDN Ledoknongko, Anik Hendrawati, S.Pd. M.Pd in her statement, expressed her hope that similar programs can continue to be developed in other schools as a form of innovation in learning methods.

The success of this program shows that hands-on learning methods such as Smart Eco Farming can be an effective solution in improving the quality of education at the primary school level. With support from various parties, it is hoped that this program can continue and become a model for other schools in developing more innovative and environmentally friendly learning methods.