Math is seen as the most difficult subject for most students. This is because of the presence of math formulas that are considered complicated.
On the other hand, math teaching tends to be monotonus which is rather uninteresting for children so their memory of formulas is lacking. Research shows that the ability to remember is stronger when it engages the senses that can maximise the brain performance in remembering the object.
"This fact has prompted us to create a solution in the form of toys that can help children’s memory memorise math formulas. The toy is named as Uncle Tiko, Math Puzzle,” said Afiffah Nuur Mila Husniana, student of Faculty of Math and Natural Sciences UGM on Monday (19/7).
Along with Hanif Hatta Mustofa, Yuda Saputra, and Ramadhani Abdan Syakuro from Faculty of Engineering as well as and Mifta Lutfiani (Faculty of Math and Natural Sciences), they developed the Uncle Tiko puzzle in the Student Creativity Program for Entrepreneurship. They chose the puzzle because in a preliminary survey, it was found out that this was the one that attracted children’s attention the most.
"Using the type of media that is liked by children, math contents in the toy can be more easily accepted by them. Besides, puzzles enable the team to offer various math materials according to children’s needs,” Affifah added.
According to Affifah, Uncle Tiko puzzle is a toy for children to learn as well as play. Uncle Tiko puts forth the educative, creative, innovative, and attractive concept. The selected design of the puzzle has been matched with interesting drawings that can spark a child’s imagination.
"Hopefully, Uncle Tiko puzzle can optimise the child’s ability in learning math,” said Affifah.