Beyond Fun and Games: Cultivating Socio-Emotional Abilities Through Cooperative Learning with Traditional Games

Abstract

This study investigated the integration of traditional Indonesian games and cooperative learning strategies to cultivate socio-emotional abilities in junior high school students, challenging the notion that games are solely physical activities. Recognizing the inherent social aspects of traditional games, the research explored whether a structured cooperative learning approach could amplify their impact on crucial socio-emotional skills. Specifically, the study examined how cooperative learning elements—positive interdependence, individual accountability, and collaborative skills—were incorporated into the playing of Gobak Sodor and Bentengan to foster empathy, communication, conflict resolution, and self-regulation. Thirty junior high school students participated in a four-week experiment, totaling eight learning hours (360 minutes). Socio-emotional abilities were assessed using the Socio-emotional Questionnaire in Bahasa Indonesia (SEC-Q-INA) administered before and after the intervention. Contrary to expectations, the results indicated a statistically significant decrease in socio-emotional abilities from pre-test (60.03±6.04) to post-test (56.10±9.45) (p<0.05). This unexpected finding prompted a reflection on the research administration, suggesting that adverse factors experienced by students during the post-test may have influenced the results. Despite this anomaly, the study offers valuable insights into critical factors requiring careful consideration to mitigate bias in experimental research. Future research is recommended to investigate the long-term effects and optimal implementation of this integrated approach across diverse educational contexts, particularly with a focus on the limitations of self-report questionnaires.