DESIGN'S POTENTIAL IN EDUCATING THE LOVE OF FLORA TO PRESCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN(CASE STUDY: IN BANDUNG, INDONESIA)

• Main Author: Dinda Ciptaviana, Anastasia
• Format: Theses
• Language: Indonesia
• Online Access: https://digilib.itb.ac.id/gdl/view/70013
• Institution: Institut Teknologi Bandung

This thesis examines design’s potential in educating the love of flora to preschoolaged children by conducting a case study in Bandung, Indonesia. This topic was chosen based on the current alpha generation’s lack of routine and quality interactions with nature which call for new ways to train naturalistic intelligence. Two research methods were utilized to reach that goal: (1) qualitative hermeneutic phenomenology on the phenomenon of "biophilia in preschoolers" and "designing with inspiration from nature" through interviews and observations and (2) case studies of flora-themed educational toys. Using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) themes in data were grouped into MoMaFES: Motivation, Material, Fantasy, Education, and Symbolic. These theme groups served as the basis for recommendations in educational toy design, which are to: (1) give meaning and identity to native flora, (2) give a sense of incremental achievement, (3) realize that comparisons between natural and synthetic materials are like comparing apples v. oranges, (4) train the ability to interpret sensory stimulation, (5) empathize with preschool-aged children, (6) view fantasy as affordance, (7) use native flora specimens, (8) embrace local culture, (9) involve mentors, and (10) use symbols that suit children’s symbolic thinking. These research recommendations are not to be used as an absolute measure of product quality, but as a tool for reflection towards good design. It is hoped that future researchers and design practitioners will be able to adapt, test, narrow, or develop findings from this research according to their respective goals.