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Stunting is a critical issue that can be addressed through various interventions, one of which involves the active participation of community cadres. This study aimed to assess the role of knowledge and motivation as mediating factors between the duration of service as a cadre and their performance in the stunting prevention program at the Tajinan and Wagir Health Centers. The research used an analytic observational study design with a cross-sectional approach. The study population consisted of 608 cadres across two health centers, and a sample of 125 cadres from each health center was selected using proportional cluster random sampling. To analyze the data, an Independent Sample T-Test was used to compare the duration of service as a cadre, knowledge, motivation, and performance between the two health centers. Path analysis was conducted to explore the impact of the duration of service as a cadre on performance, mediated by knowledge and motivation. The results indicated that there were significant differences in the knowledge and performance of the cadres, while the duration of service and motivation did not show significant differences between the two health centers. Path analysis revealed that knowledge and motivation were not significant mediators in the relationship between the duration of service and cadre performance. Furthermore, the length of time as a cadre did not significantly impact performance in either health center. However, motivation emerged as the most influential factor, with a substantial effect on the performance of the cadres in both health centers. Based on these findings, it is recommended that stunting prevention programs focus on enhancing the motivation of cadres to improve their performance, rather than solely relying on the duration of their service or their knowledge levels.

The development of critical thinking skills is essential for preparing future generations to effectively navigate the challenges posed by rapid technological and scientific advancements. This study examines the effectiveness of STEM-based learning (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) in enhancing critical thinking skills among elementary school students in Indonesia. Using a quasi-experimental method with a pre-test and post-test control group design, this research involved 120 students from three elementary schools in East Java. The experimental group was taught using an integrated STEM approach, while the control group continued with a traditional curriculum. The primary objective was to assess how STEM-based learning impacts students' critical thinking, particularly in areas such as problem-solving, reasoning, and analysis. The results revealed a significant improvement in the critical thinking abilities of students in the STEM group compared to the control group. Students in the experimental group demonstrated enhanced skills in problem-solving and reasoning, with notable improvements in their ability to analyze and evaluate information. Additionally, the STEM group exhibited higher levels of engagement, curiosity, and motivation in their learning, along with a greater ability to apply interdisciplinary knowledge to real-life contexts. These findings suggest that STEM-based learning can play a crucial role in developing critical thinking and other essential skills required in the 21st century. This research underscores the potential benefits of incorporating STEM education into elementary school curricula to foster critical thinking and prepare students for future challenges. The study recommends that policymakers and educators focus on providing the necessary training, resources, and support to effectively implement STEM-based learning in primary education. By doing so, we can ensure that students develop the skills needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving world.  

The development of critical thinking skills is essential for preparing future generations to effectively navigate the challenges posed by rapid technological and scientific advancements. This study examines the effectiveness of STEM-based learning (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) in enhancing critical thinking skills among elementary school students in Indonesia. Using a quasi-experimental method with a pre-test and post-test control group design, this research involved 120 students from three elementary schools in East Java. The experimental group was taught using an integrated STEM approach, while the control group continued with a traditional curriculum. The primary objective was to assess how STEM-based learning impacts students' critical thinking, particularly in areas such as problem-solving, reasoning, and analysis. The results revealed a significant improvement in the critical thinking abilities of students in the STEM group compared to the control group. Students in the experimental group demonstrated enhanced skills in problem-solving and reasoning, with notable improvements in their ability to analyze and evaluate information. Additionally, the STEM group exhibited higher levels of engagement, curiosity, and motivation in their learning, along with a greater ability to apply interdisciplinary knowledge to real-life contexts. These findings suggest that STEM-based learning can play a crucial role in developing critical thinking and other essential skills required in the 21st century. This research underscores the potential benefits of incorporating STEM education into elementary school curricula to foster critical thinking and prepare students for future challenges. The study recommends that policymakers and educators focus on providing the necessary training, resources, and support to effectively implement STEM-based learning in primary education. By doing so, we can ensure that students develop the skills needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving world.  

Low exclusive breastfeeding rates are often linked to the widespread use of formula milk in infants. Formula feeding cannot replace colostrum, the first milk produced after birth, which is crucial for providing infants with essential nutrients and immunity. Without colostrum, infants are at increased risk of developing diarrhea, septicemia, meningitis, and other serious health complications. Additionally, formula milk may lead to protein intolerance, which often results in allergies among infants. This study aims to identify the factors associated with formula feeding in infants aged 0-6 months. The study employed an analytic observational approach with a cross-sectional design, involving 55 mothers with infants aged 0-6 months. Participants were selected using accidental sampling. Data were analyzed using the Chi-square statistical test. The univariate analysis revealed that the majority of respondents (56.4%) had good knowledge of infant feeding practices, while 30.9% had a junior high school education. Most respondents (76.4%) were not employed, and 56.4% of mothers reported giving formula milk to their infants. The bivariate analysis showed a significant relationship between maternal knowledge and formula feeding practices, but no significant relationship was found between the mother's education level or employment status and the use of formula milk. Based on these findings, it is recommended that healthcare workers play a more active role in providing education, information, and motivation to mothers, helping them understand the benefits and advantages of exclusive breastfeeding. By increasing maternal knowledge and addressing misconceptions, healthcare workers can contribute to improving exclusive breastfeeding rates and reducing the unnecessary use of formula feeding.

Posyandu is a community-based health program managed by and for the community, aiming to strengthen local health systems and facilitate access to essential health services. The temporary disruption of Posyandu services during the COVID-19 pandemic has had adverse effects on vulnerable populations such as pregnant women and toddlers, highlighting the importance of resilient volunteer performance post-pandemic. This study aims to examine the correlation between post-pandemic competence and the implementation of the five main activities by Posyandu volunteers in Malang, Indonesia. Utilizing a quantitative correlational research design, the study involved a total sample of 123 Posyandu volunteers from two villages in Malang. Data collection was conducted over July to August 2023. The findings indicate a statistically significant but weak positive correlation between volunteer knowledge and motivation, with a p-value of 0.007 and a correlation coefficient of 0.242. This suggests that while increased knowledge is associated with higher motivation levels, the strength of this relationship is limited. Further analysis assessed the relationship between length of service and volunteer motivation, revealing no significant correlation (p = 0.675, r = -0.038). These results imply that the duration of volunteer service does not influence motivational levels among Posyandu volunteers. Given these findings, enhancing volunteers’ knowledge through regular training and refresher programs is essential to maintain motivation and improve service delivery. The study recommends continuous capacity-building efforts to empower Posyandu volunteers, thereby ensuring effective implementation of health activities post-pandemic. Future research should investigate additional factors that may affect volunteer motivation, such as social support, recognition, and workload. Understanding these dimensions can further strengthen Posyandu programs and support the vulnerable community members they serve.

Low exclusive breastfeeding rates are often linked to the widespread use of formula milk in infants. Formula feeding cannot replace colostrum, the first milk produced after birth, which is crucial for providing infants with essential nutrients and immunity. Without colostrum, infants are at increased risk of developing diarrhea, septicemia, meningitis, and other serious health complications. Additionally, formula milk may lead to protein intolerance, which often results in allergies among infants. This study aims to identify the factors associated with formula feeding in infants aged 0-6 months. The study employed an analytic observational approach with a cross-sectional design, involving 55 mothers with infants aged 0-6 months. Participants were selected using accidental sampling. Data were analyzed using the Chi-square statistical test. The univariate analysis revealed that the majority of respondents (56.4%) had good knowledge of infant feeding practices, while 30.9% had a junior high school education. Most respondents (76.4%) were not employed, and 56.4% of mothers reported giving formula milk to their infants. The bivariate analysis showed a significant relationship between maternal knowledge and formula feeding practices, but no significant relationship was found between the mother's education level or employment status and the use of formula milk. Based on these findings, it is recommended that healthcare workers play a more active role in providing education, information, and motivation to mothers, helping them understand the benefits and advantages of exclusive breastfeeding. By increasing maternal knowledge and addressing misconceptions, healthcare workers can contribute to improving exclusive breastfeeding rates and reducing the unnecessary use of formula feeding.

Posyandu is a community-based health program managed by and for the community, aiming to strengthen local health systems and facilitate access to essential health services. The temporary disruption of Posyandu services during the COVID-19 pandemic has had adverse effects on vulnerable populations such as pregnant women and toddlers, highlighting the importance of resilient volunteer performance post-pandemic. This study aims to examine the correlation between post-pandemic competence and the implementation of the five main activities by Posyandu volunteers in Malang, Indonesia. Utilizing a quantitative correlational research design, the study involved a total sample of 123 Posyandu volunteers from two villages in Malang. Data collection was conducted over July to August 2023. The findings indicate a statistically significant but weak positive correlation between volunteer knowledge and motivation, with a p-value of 0.007 and a correlation coefficient of 0.242. This suggests that while increased knowledge is associated with higher motivation levels, the strength of this relationship is limited. Further analysis assessed the relationship between length of service and volunteer motivation, revealing no significant correlation (p = 0.675, r = -0.038). These results imply that the duration of volunteer service does not influence motivational levels among Posyandu volunteers. Given these findings, enhancing volunteers’ knowledge through regular training and refresher programs is essential to maintain motivation and improve service delivery. The study recommends continuous capacity-building efforts to empower Posyandu volunteers, thereby ensuring effective implementation of health activities post-pandemic. Future research should investigate additional factors that may affect volunteer motivation, such as social support, recognition, and workload. Understanding these dimensions can further strengthen Posyandu programs and support the vulnerable community members they serve.

Anemia is a common condition among pregnant women, often caused by insufficient iron intake or poor absorption due to digestive issues. This condition can have serious implications for both maternal and fetal health. The primary objective of this study was to explore the relationship between pregnant women’s knowledge about iron tablets and their adherence to the prescribed regimen at Saritani Health Center. This study utilized a quantitative approach with a cross-sectional design. The population for this study consisted of all pregnant women visiting Saritani Health Center, with a sample size of 78 women selected through purposive sampling, based on predetermined inclusion criteria. The study’s findings indicated that the majority of respondents had a sufficient level of knowledge regarding the importance of iron tablets. A statistical analysis using the Spearman Rank test revealed a very strong correlation between the level of knowledge about iron tablets and adherence to their consumption, with a correlation coefficient of rs = 0.812 and a p-value of 0.000 (p < 0.05). This suggests that the higher the level of knowledge about iron tablets among pregnant women, the greater their compliance with taking these supplements. The study also found that while most respondents had sufficient knowledge about iron tablets, their compliance was moderate, which highlights the importance of ongoing education and support. The results of this study emphasize the critical role that knowledge plays in improving compliance with iron supplementation among pregnant women. Health education initiatives targeting pregnant women should focus on increasing awareness and understanding of the benefits of iron supplementation to prevent anemia and its associated risks. This study calls for enhanced counseling and educational efforts at the community health level to ensure better maternal health outcomes.

Complementary feeding is an important stage in infant growth and development. Lack of maternal knowledge regarding the appropriate timing and type of complementary feeding can have a negative impact on infant nutritional status, including the risk of malnutrition and stunting. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between breastfeeding mothers' knowledge and infants' complementary feeding practices. This study used a cross-sectional design with a sample size of 25 mothers selected using simple random sampling technique. Data were collected through a questionnaire that measured mothers' knowledge level about complementary feeding and their feeding practices. Data were analyzed using the Spearman Rank test using SPSS version 22, with a significance level of p < 0.05. The results showed that the majority of mothers were 20-35 years old (48%) and had primary education (68%). A total of 44% of mothers had a low level of knowledge about complementary feeding, and 55% of mothers gave complementary feeding before the baby was 6 months old. Spearman correlation analysis showed a weak association between mothers' knowledge level and complementary feeding practices (p = 0.078; r = 0.359). Although not statistically significant, the direction of the association suggests that the better the mothers' knowledge, the more likely they are to provide complementary foods as recommended. The conclusion of this study emphasizes the importance of educational interventions to improve mothers' understanding of complementary feeding to reduce inappropriate feeding practices. Community-based education programs can be an effective strategy to increase maternal awareness and ensure appropriate complementary feeding for infants.

Complementary foods, or MP-ASI (food for babies), play a crucial role in providing essential nutrients for infants and children to meet their growing nutritional needs. The knowledge and attitude of mothers are pivotal factors influencing children's nutrition, as a lack of understanding regarding complementary feeding often leads to malnutrition. One of the primary causes of malnutrition in infants is the improper timing of introducing complementary foods, either too early (before six months of age) or too late. This study aims to analyze the relationship between mothers' knowledge and attitudes regarding the provision of complementary feeding for infants aged 6-12 months at the Ribang Health Center, Muara Uya District, Tabalong Regency, South Kalimantan. The study utilized univariate, bivariate, and chi-square tests to analyze the data. A total of 20 respondents were surveyed, with results indicating that 8 respondents (46.7%) had sufficient knowledge and a good attitude, while 14 respondents (70%) demonstrated a good attitude. The chi-square test revealed a p-value of 0.000 (<0.05) at α = 0.05, supporting the hypothesis that maternal knowledge is significantly related to the provision of complementary feeding. However, the bivariate analysis showed a p-value of 0.163, indicating no significant effect between maternal attitudes and the provision of complementary feeding. In conclusion, while there is a significant relationship between maternal knowledge and complementary feeding, the study found no significant association between maternal attitudes and the timing of complementary feeding based on statistical analysis. This study highlights the importance of improving maternal knowledge in the provision of complementary feeding to ensure proper infant nutrition

Anemia is a common condition among pregnant women, often caused by insufficient iron intake or poor absorption due to digestive issues. This condition can have serious implications for both maternal and fetal health. The primary objective of this study was to explore the relationship between pregnant women’s knowledge about iron tablets and their adherence to the prescribed regimen at Saritani Health Center. This study utilized a quantitative approach with a cross-sectional design. The population for this study consisted of all pregnant women visiting Saritani Health Center, with a sample size of 78 women selected through purposive sampling, based on predetermined inclusion criteria. The study’s findings indicated that the majority of respondents had a sufficient level of knowledge regarding the importance of iron tablets. A statistical analysis using the Spearman Rank test revealed a very strong correlation between the level of knowledge about iron tablets and adherence to their consumption, with a correlation coefficient of rs = 0.812 and a p-value of 0.000 (p < 0.05). This suggests that the higher the level of knowledge about iron tablets among pregnant women, the greater their compliance with taking these supplements. The study also found that while most respondents had sufficient knowledge about iron tablets, their compliance was moderate, which highlights the importance of ongoing education and support. The results of this study emphasize the critical role that knowledge plays in improving compliance with iron supplementation among pregnant women. Health education initiatives targeting pregnant women should focus on increasing awareness and understanding of the benefits of iron supplementation to prevent anemia and its associated risks. This study calls for enhanced counseling and educational efforts at the community health level to ensure better maternal health outcomes.

Complementary feeding is an important stage in infant growth and development. Lack of maternal knowledge regarding the appropriate timing and type of complementary feeding can have a negative impact on infant nutritional status, including the risk of malnutrition and stunting. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between breastfeeding mothers' knowledge and infants' complementary feeding practices. This study used a cross-sectional design with a sample size of 25 mothers selected using simple random sampling technique. Data were collected through a questionnaire that measured mothers' knowledge level about complementary feeding and their feeding practices. Data were analyzed using the Spearman Rank test using SPSS version 22, with a significance level of p < 0.05. The results showed that the majority of mothers were 20-35 years old (48%) and had primary education (68%). A total of 44% of mothers had a low level of knowledge about complementary feeding, and 55% of mothers gave complementary feeding before the baby was 6 months old. Spearman correlation analysis showed a weak association between mothers' knowledge level and complementary feeding practices (p = 0.078; r = 0.359). Although not statistically significant, the direction of the association suggests that the better the mothers' knowledge, the more likely they are to provide complementary foods as recommended. The conclusion of this study emphasizes the importance of educational interventions to improve mothers' understanding of complementary feeding to reduce inappropriate feeding practices. Community-based education programs can be an effective strategy to increase maternal awareness and ensure appropriate complementary feeding for infants.

Stunting is a critical issue that can be addressed through various interventions, one of which involves the active participation of community cadres. This study aimed to assess the role of knowledge and motivation as mediating factors between the duration of service as a cadre and their performance in the stunting prevention program at the Tajinan and Wagir Health Centers. The research used an analytic observational study design with a cross-sectional approach. The study population consisted of 608 cadres across two health centers, and a sample of 125 cadres from each health center was selected using proportional cluster random sampling. To analyze the data, an Independent Sample T-Test was used to compare the duration of service as a cadre, knowledge, motivation, and performance between the two health centers. Path analysis was conducted to explore the impact of the duration of service as a cadre on performance, mediated by knowledge and motivation. The results indicated that there were significant differences in the knowledge and performance of the cadres, while the duration of service and motivation did not show significant differences between the two health centers. Path analysis revealed that knowledge and motivation were not significant mediators in the relationship between the duration of service and cadre performance. Furthermore, the length of time as a cadre did not significantly impact performance in either health center. However, motivation emerged as the most influential factor, with a substantial effect on the performance of the cadres in both health centers. Based on these findings, it is recommended that stunting prevention programs focus on enhancing the motivation of cadres to improve their performance, rather than solely relying on the duration of their service or their knowledge levels.

Complementary foods, or MP-ASI (food for babies), play a crucial role in providing essential nutrients for infants and children to meet their growing nutritional needs. The knowledge and attitude of mothers are pivotal factors influencing children's nutrition, as a lack of understanding regarding complementary feeding often leads to malnutrition. One of the primary causes of malnutrition in infants is the improper timing of introducing complementary foods, either too early (before six months of age) or too late. This study aims to analyze the relationship between mothers' knowledge and attitudes regarding the provision of complementary feeding for infants aged 6-12 months at the Ribang Health Center, Muara Uya District, Tabalong Regency, South Kalimantan. The study utilized univariate, bivariate, and chi-square tests to analyze the data. A total of 20 respondents were surveyed, with results indicating that 8 respondents (46.7%) had sufficient knowledge and a good attitude, while 14 respondents (70%) demonstrated a good attitude. The chi-square test revealed a p-value of 0.000 (<0.05) at α = 0.05, supporting the hypothesis that maternal knowledge is significantly related to the provision of complementary feeding. However, the bivariate analysis showed a p-value of 0.163, indicating no significant effect between maternal attitudes and the provision of complementary feeding. In conclusion, while there is a significant relationship between maternal knowledge and complementary feeding, the study found no significant association between maternal attitudes and the timing of complementary feeding based on statistical analysis. This study highlights the importance of improving maternal knowledge in the provision of complementary feeding to ensure proper infant nutrition

Various factors influence pregnant women's knowledge of pregnancy danger signs, including age, education level, occupation, previous pregnancy experience, socioeconomic status, and access to health information. Insufficient knowledge of these signs, often due to limited access to health services and information, increases the risk of delays in managing pregnancy complications, which can negatively impact both maternal and fetal health. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between maternal characteristics, specifically age, and awareness of pregnancy danger signs. This quantitative study employed a correlational approach, using a questionnaire as the data collection tool. The study was conducted at the Tapa Health Center in Bone Bolango Regency, from April to August 2024, with 40 participants included. The Spearman statistical test was used to assess the relationship between maternal characteristics based on age and the knowledge of pregnancy danger signs before and after an intervention. The results showed a significant change in the knowledge levels of pregnant women, with the p-value of 0.852 indicating no direct relationship between maternal age and awareness of pregnancy danger signs. Although a positive change was observed in the knowledge levels after the intervention, the study concluded that there was no significant relationship between maternal age and knowledge of pregnancy danger signs. The findings suggest that while interventions can improve awareness, age alone does not appear to be a significant factor influencing knowledge levels. This highlights the importance of focusing on other factors such as education, health access, and targeted health interventions to enhance maternal awareness of pregnancy risks. Further studies with larger sample sizes and additional variables are recommended to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the factors that influence pregnancy-related knowledge.

Various factors influence pregnant women's knowledge of pregnancy danger signs, including age, education level, occupation, previous pregnancy experience, socioeconomic status, and access to health information. Insufficient knowledge of these signs, often due to limited access to health services and information, increases the risk of delays in managing pregnancy complications, which can negatively impact both maternal and fetal health. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between maternal characteristics, specifically age, and awareness of pregnancy danger signs. This quantitative study employed a correlational approach, using a questionnaire as the data collection tool. The study was conducted at the Tapa Health Center in Bone Bolango Regency, from April to August 2024, with 40 participants included. The Spearman statistical test was used to assess the relationship between maternal characteristics based on age and the knowledge of pregnancy danger signs before and after an intervention. The results showed a significant change in the knowledge levels of pregnant women, with the p-value of 0.852 indicating no direct relationship between maternal age and awareness of pregnancy danger signs. Although a positive change was observed in the knowledge levels after the intervention, the study concluded that there was no significant relationship between maternal age and knowledge of pregnancy danger signs. The findings suggest that while interventions can improve awareness, age alone does not appear to be a significant factor influencing knowledge levels. This highlights the importance of focusing on other factors such as education, health access, and targeted health interventions to enhance maternal awareness of pregnancy risks. Further studies with larger sample sizes and additional variables are recommended to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the factors that influence pregnancy-related knowledge.

Gamification—the use of game mechanics in non-gaming contexts—has proven to be an effective tool for enhancing children's learning experiences. This paper examines how gamified learning platforms influence early childhood education by improving motivation, attention span, and knowledge retention. The study evaluates the effectiveness of various educational games and proposes best practices for implementing gamification in preschool and primary education.

Gamification—the use of game mechanics in non-gaming contexts—has proven to be an effective tool for enhancing children's learning experiences. This paper examines how gamified learning platforms influence early childhood education by improving motivation, attention span, and knowledge retention. The study evaluates the effectiveness of various educational games and proposes best practices for implementing gamification in preschool and primary education.

Hypertension is a condition that is often found in health services. Hypertension is a condition when blood pressure in the blood vessels chronically increases. Many risk factors can cause hypertension, including age, race, gender, lifestyle, sodium consumption, smoking, alcohol consumption, stress level, and education. The urgency of this research is the large number of hypertension patients at the Purwodiningratan Surakarta Health Center and it is increasing almost every year. From the initial survey at the Purwodiningratan Surakarta Community Health Center, data was obtained that the number of hypertension patients over the last five years has increased, decreased, then increased again. This is supported by data on the number of hypertension patients in 2019 as many as 311, in 2020 as many as 214, in 2021 as many as 319, in 2022 as many as 125 and in 2023 up to now there are 335. The objective problem in this research is the number of patients with the disease. Hypertension increases from year to year, so research is needed on the relationship between knowledge, attitudes and family support and efforts to control hypertension. The importance of this research is as an effort to control hypertension which continues to increase from year to year by means of interviews and distributing leaflets with the aim of approaching the community. The aim of this research is to analyze how much impact the hypertension control program using the walet method (interviews and leaflets) has on the community. The achievement stages in this research are for the approach used in this research, namely cross sectional. The sample in this study was employees of the Purwodiningratan Health Center, totaling 41 respondents. The sampling technique uses the accidental sampling method based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. The statistical test used is the T test followed by a linear regression test at a significance level of 0.05. 

Hypertension is a condition that is often found in health services. Hypertension is a condition when blood pressure in the blood vessels chronically increases. Many risk factors can cause hypertension, including age, race, gender, lifestyle, sodium consumption, smoking, alcohol consumption, stress level, and education. The urgency of this research is the large number of hypertension patients at the Purwodiningratan Surakarta Health Center and it is increasing almost every year. From the initial survey at the Purwodiningratan Surakarta Community Health Center, data was obtained that the number of hypertension patients over the last five years has increased, decreased, then increased again. This is supported by data on the number of hypertension patients in 2019 as many as 311, in 2020 as many as 214, in 2021 as many as 319, in 2022 as many as 125 and in 2023 up to now there are 335. The objective problem in this research is the number of patients with the disease. Hypertension increases from year to year, so research is needed on the relationship between knowledge, attitudes and family support and efforts to control hypertension. The importance of this research is as an effort to control hypertension which continues to increase from year to year by means of interviews and distributing leaflets with the aim of approaching the community. The aim of this research is to analyze how much impact the hypertension control program using the walet method (interviews and leaflets) has on the community. The achievement stages in this research are for the approach used in this research, namely cross sectional. The sample in this study was employees of the Purwodiningratan Health Center, totaling 41 respondents. The sampling technique uses the accidental sampling method based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. The statistical test used is the T test followed by a linear regression test at a significance level of 0.05.