This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Educational Applications for Enhancing Learning Effectiveness in Early Childhood
Corresponding Author(s) : Kursih Sulastriningsih
Jurnal MENTARI: Manajemen, Pendidikan dan Teknologi Informasi,
Vol. 5 No. 1 (2026): September
Abstract
The rapid advancement of digital technology has transformed educational practices, including early childhood education, through the integration of educational applications that support interactive and engaging learning experiences. However, empirical evidence regarding the contribution of these applications to learning effectiveness among young learners remains limited. Therefore, this study aims to examine the role of educational applications in enhancing learning effectiveness by investigating their relationship with learning engagement and outcomes. This study employed a quantitative approach using a survey method involving 188 early childhood education teachers who actively utilize educational applications in classroom learning. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to evaluate the measurement and structural models. The findings indicate that the use of educational applications significantly enhances learning effectiveness by increasing student engagement, supporting interactive learning activities, and facilitating more efficient instructional delivery. Educational applications also positively influence children’s motivation and participation, which contribute to improved learning outcomes and classroom experiences. These findings suggest that technology-supported learning environments can effectively complement conventional teaching approaches in early childhood education. In conclusion, educational applications represent valuable instructional tools for improving learning effectiveness and supporting the quality of early childhood education. The findings provide practical implications for educators, school administrators, and policymakers in promoting effective educational technology integration to create engaging and sustainable learning environments for young children
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- H. Annuar, E. Solihatin et al., “Enhancing early childhood cognitive development via mobile game-based learning applications: Insights and practical experiences.” International Journal of Interactive Mobile Technologies, vol. 19, no. 4, 2025.
- H. J. Bang, L. Li, and K. Flynn, “Efficacy of an adaptive game-based math learning app to support personalized learning and improve early elementary school students’ learning,” Early Childhood Education Journal, vol. 51, no. 4, pp. 717–732, 2023.
- U. R. Firdaus and S. Prasetyo, “Effectiveness of using interactive multimedia for early childhood learning,” Jurnal Anak Usia Dini Holistik Integratif (AUDHI), vol. 7, no. 2, pp. 102–112, 2025.
- M. Meyer, J. M. Zosh, C. McLaren, M. Robb, H. McCaffery, R. M. Golinkoff, K. Hirsh-Pasek, and J. Radesky, “How educational are “educational” apps for young children? app store content analysis using the four pillars of learning framework,” Journal of children and media, vol. 15, no. 4, pp. 526–548, 2021.
- A. Maduwinarti, I. A. Mahendra, D. Cahyono, and C. Gusmao, “Technopreneurial strategies using digitalization and innovation to strengthen student loyalty,” Aptisi Transactions on Technopreneurship (ATT), vol. 8, no. 2, pp. 391–404, 2026.
- C. Liu and G.-J. Hwang, “Roles and research trends of touchscreen mobile devices in early childhood education: Review of journal publications from 2010 to 2019 based on the technology-enhanced learning model,” Interactive learning environments, vol. 31, no. 3, pp. 1683–1702, 2023.
- M. S. Alotaibi, “Game-based learning in early childhood education: a systematic review and meta-analysis,” Frontiers in psychology, vol. 15, p. 1307881, 2024.
- Y. Honghu, L. Ting, and L. Gongjin, “The key artificial intelligence technologies in early childhood education: a review,” arXiv preprint arXiv:2401.05403, 2023.
- J. Su and W. Yang, “Artificial intelligence in early childhood education: A scoping review,” Computers and Education: Artificial Intelligence, vol. 3, p. 100049, 2022.
- J. Vaiopoulou, S. Papadakis, E. Sifaki, M. Kalogiannakis, and D. Stamovlasis, “Classification and evaluation of educational apps for early childhood: Security matters,” Education and Information Technologies, vol. 28, no. 3, pp. 2547–2578, 2023.
- Kementerian Pendidikan Dasar dan Menengah. (2026) Materi sumber belajar jenjang pendidikan anak usia dini (paud). [Online]. Available: https://pusatinformasi.rumahpendidikan.kemendikdasmen.go.id/hc/id/articles/52341540917401-Materi-Sumber-Belajar Jenjang-Pendidikan-Anak-Usia-Dini-PAUD
- U. Rahardja, Q. Aini, R. Supriati, and M. A. Al Hafiz, “Optimizing digital promotional graphic design strategies using the aida model,” ADI Journal on Recent Innovation (AJRI), vol. 7, no. 2, pp. 220–230, 2026.
- E. Gkintoni, H. Antonopoulou, A. Sortwell, and C. Halkiopoulos, “Challenging cognitive load theory: The role of educational neuroscience and artificial intelligence in redefining learning efficacy,” Brain sciences, vol. 15, no. 2, p. 203, 2025.
- Y. Zhao, W. Gao, and S. Ku, “Optimization of the game improvement and data analysis model for the early childhood education major via deep learning,” Scientific reports, vol. 13, no. 1, p. 20273, 2023.
- M. R. Lepper and T. W. Malone, “Intrinsic motivation and instructional effectiveness in computer-based education,” in Aptitude, learning, and instruction. Routledge, 2021, pp. 255–286.
- S. Qing, “Design and application of preschool education system based on mobile application,” Mathematical Problems in Engineering, vol. 2022, no. 1, p. 8556824, 2022.
- G. I. Sari, S. Winasis, I. Pratiwi, U. W. Nuryanto et al., “Strengthening digital literacy in indonesia: Collaboration, innovation, and sustainability education,” Social Sciences & Humanities Open, vol. 10, p. 101100, 2024.
- D. Abbas, K. Siahaan, and M. Yusup, “Design thinking as a business model for empowering creative entrepreneurs in the digital era,” Startupreneur Business Digital (SABDA Journal), vol. 4, no. 2, pp. 124–133, 2025.
- S. R. Rocque, “Evaluating the effectiveness of mobile applications in enhancing learning and development,” International Journal of Innovative Technologies in Social Science, vol. 3, no. 35, pp. 1–8, 2022.
- M. A. S. Khasawneh and Y. J. A. Khasawneh, “Analyzing the effectiveness of mobile devices and apps in supporting learning,” Migration Letters, vol. 20, no. 1, pp. 901–10, 2023.
- C. O. Amaefule, J. Breitwieser, D. Biedermann, L. Nobbe, H. Drachsler, and G. Brod, “Fostering children’s acceptance of educational apps: The importance of designing enjoyable learning activities,” British journal of educational technology, vol. 54, no. 5, pp. 1351–1372, 2023.
- Y. A. Alkhabra, U. M. Ibrahem, and S. A. Alkhabra, “Augmented reality technology in enhancing learning retention and critical thinking according to steam program,” Humanities and Social Sciences Communications, vol. 10, no. 1, p. 174, 2023.
- N. P. L. Santoso, A. Faturahman, and S. Setiawati, “Implementation of local seo on google maps for increasing footfall conversion in building store business,” ADI Pengabdian Kepada Masyarakat, vol. 6, no. 2, pp. 186–198, 2026.
- I. Muda, R. Sivaraman, S. I. S. Al-Hawary, U. Rahardja, R. S. Bader, D. Kadarsyah, and P. Chaudhary, “Hub location-allocation in computer-based networks under disruption using whale optimization algorithm,” Industrial Engineering & Management Systems, vol. 21, no. 3, pp. 503–515, 2022.
- S. Papadakis, M. Kalogiannakis, and N. Zaranis, “Teaching mathematics with mobile devices and the realistic mathematical education (rme) approach in kindergarten,” Advances in Mobile Learning Educational Research, vol. 1, no. 1, pp. 5–18, 2021.
- C. Wang, X. Chen, T. Yu, Y. Liu, and Y. Jing, “Education reform and change driven by digital technology: A bibliometric study from a global perspective,” Humanities and Social Sciences Communications, vol. 11, no. 1, pp. 1–17, 2024.
- O. Topsakal and E. Topsakal, “Framework for a foreign language teaching software for children utilizingar, voicebots and chatgpt (large language models),” The Journal of Cognitive Systems, vol. 7, no. 2, pp. 33–38, 2022.
- M. Zhang, H. Ding, M. Naumceska, and Y. Zhang, “Virtual reality technology as an educational and intervention tool for children with autism spectrum disorder: current perspectives and future directions,” Behavioral Sciences, vol. 12, no. 5, p. 138, 2022.
- M. M. Sari, U. Rahardja, N. Azizah, G. Fransiso, and J. Bagaskara, “Analysis of academic information system integration in improving the quality of higher education data reporting to pddikti,” International Transactions on Education Technology (ITEE), vol. 4, no. 2, pp. 172–186, 2026.
- Z. H. Wan, Y. Jiang, and Y. Zhan, “Stem education in early childhood: A review of empirical studies,” Early Education and Development, vol. 32, no. 7, pp. 940–962, 2021.
- C. A. Eden, O. N. Chisom, and I. S. Adeniyi, “Harnessing technology integration in education: Strategies for enhancing learning outcomes and equity,” World Journal of Advanced Engineering Technology and Sciences, vol. 11, no. 2, pp. 001–008, 2024.
- E. Yarımkaya and O. K. Esent¨urk, “Promoting physical activity for children with autism spectrum disorders during coronavirus outbreak: benefits, strategies, and examples,” International Journal of Developmental Disabilities, vol. 68, no. 4, pp. 430–435, 2022.
- E. Opara, A. Mfon-Ette Theresa, and T. C. Aduke, “Chatgpt for teaching, learning and research: Prospects and challenges,” Opara Emmanuel Chinonso, Adalikwu Mfon-Ette Theresa, Tolorunleke Caroline Aduke (2023). ChatGPT for Teaching, Learning and Research: Prospects and Challenges. Glob Acad J Humanit Soc Sci, vol. 5, 2023.
- M. D. T. P. Nasution, Y. Rossanty, R. Harahap, A. R. Tanjung, and T. A. M. Nasution, “Technology-driven resource utilization and integration to enhance firm performance,” Aptisi Transactions on Technopreneurship (ATT), vol. 8, no. 1, pp. 268–283, 2026.
- T. G. Ford, K.-A. Kwon, and J. D. Tsotsoros, “Early childhood distance learning in the us during the covid pandemic: Challenges and opportunities,” Children and Youth Services Review, vol. 131, p. 106297, 2021.
- S. Y. Cheung and K. Y. Ng, “Application of the educational game to enhance student learning,” in Frontiers in Education, vol. 6. Frontiers Media SA, 2021, p. 623793.
- M. Hardini, M. Yusup, Y. M. Kareem, E. D. Astuti et al., “The implementation of digital storytelling to enhance early childhood learning experiences,” Jurnal MENTARI: Manajemen, Pendidikan dan Teknologi Informasi, vol. 4, no. 2, pp. 165–175, 2026.
- A. Alam, “Improving learning outcomes through predictive analytics: Enhancing teaching and learning with educational data mining,” in 2023 7th International Conference on Intelligent Computing and Control Systems (ICICCS). IEEE, 2023, pp. 249–257.
- P. D. Barua, J. Vicnesh, R. Gururajan, S. L. Oh, E. Palmer, M. M. Azizan, N. A. Kadri, and U. R. Acharya, “Artificial intelligence enabled personalised assistive tools to enhance education of children with neurodevelopmental disorders—a review,” International journal of environmental research and public health, vol. 19, no. 3, p. 1192, 2022.
- P. A. Sunarya, U. Rahardja, S. C. Chen, Y.-M. Lic, and M. Hardini, “Deciphering digital social dynamics: A comparative study of logistic regression and random forest in predicting e-commerce customer behavior,” Journal of Applied Data Sciences, vol. 5, no. 1, pp. 100–113, 2024.
- H. Lin and Q. Chen, “Artificial intelligence (ai)-integrated educational applications and college students’ creativity and academic emotions: students and teachers’ perceptions and attitudes,” BMC psychology, vol. 12, no. 1, p. 487, 2024.
References
H. Annuar, E. Solihatin et al., “Enhancing early childhood cognitive development via mobile game-based learning applications: Insights and practical experiences.” International Journal of Interactive Mobile Technologies, vol. 19, no. 4, 2025.
H. J. Bang, L. Li, and K. Flynn, “Efficacy of an adaptive game-based math learning app to support personalized learning and improve early elementary school students’ learning,” Early Childhood Education Journal, vol. 51, no. 4, pp. 717–732, 2023.
U. R. Firdaus and S. Prasetyo, “Effectiveness of using interactive multimedia for early childhood learning,” Jurnal Anak Usia Dini Holistik Integratif (AUDHI), vol. 7, no. 2, pp. 102–112, 2025.
M. Meyer, J. M. Zosh, C. McLaren, M. Robb, H. McCaffery, R. M. Golinkoff, K. Hirsh-Pasek, and J. Radesky, “How educational are “educational” apps for young children? app store content analysis using the four pillars of learning framework,” Journal of children and media, vol. 15, no. 4, pp. 526–548, 2021.
A. Maduwinarti, I. A. Mahendra, D. Cahyono, and C. Gusmao, “Technopreneurial strategies using digitalization and innovation to strengthen student loyalty,” Aptisi Transactions on Technopreneurship (ATT), vol. 8, no. 2, pp. 391–404, 2026.
C. Liu and G.-J. Hwang, “Roles and research trends of touchscreen mobile devices in early childhood education: Review of journal publications from 2010 to 2019 based on the technology-enhanced learning model,” Interactive learning environments, vol. 31, no. 3, pp. 1683–1702, 2023.
M. S. Alotaibi, “Game-based learning in early childhood education: a systematic review and meta-analysis,” Frontiers in psychology, vol. 15, p. 1307881, 2024.
Y. Honghu, L. Ting, and L. Gongjin, “The key artificial intelligence technologies in early childhood education: a review,” arXiv preprint arXiv:2401.05403, 2023.
J. Su and W. Yang, “Artificial intelligence in early childhood education: A scoping review,” Computers and Education: Artificial Intelligence, vol. 3, p. 100049, 2022.
J. Vaiopoulou, S. Papadakis, E. Sifaki, M. Kalogiannakis, and D. Stamovlasis, “Classification and evaluation of educational apps for early childhood: Security matters,” Education and Information Technologies, vol. 28, no. 3, pp. 2547–2578, 2023.
Kementerian Pendidikan Dasar dan Menengah. (2026) Materi sumber belajar jenjang pendidikan anak usia dini (paud). [Online]. Available: https://pusatinformasi.rumahpendidikan.kemendikdasmen.go.id/hc/id/articles/52341540917401-Materi-Sumber-Belajar Jenjang-Pendidikan-Anak-Usia-Dini-PAUD
U. Rahardja, Q. Aini, R. Supriati, and M. A. Al Hafiz, “Optimizing digital promotional graphic design strategies using the aida model,” ADI Journal on Recent Innovation (AJRI), vol. 7, no. 2, pp. 220–230, 2026.
E. Gkintoni, H. Antonopoulou, A. Sortwell, and C. Halkiopoulos, “Challenging cognitive load theory: The role of educational neuroscience and artificial intelligence in redefining learning efficacy,” Brain sciences, vol. 15, no. 2, p. 203, 2025.
Y. Zhao, W. Gao, and S. Ku, “Optimization of the game improvement and data analysis model for the early childhood education major via deep learning,” Scientific reports, vol. 13, no. 1, p. 20273, 2023.
M. R. Lepper and T. W. Malone, “Intrinsic motivation and instructional effectiveness in computer-based education,” in Aptitude, learning, and instruction. Routledge, 2021, pp. 255–286.
S. Qing, “Design and application of preschool education system based on mobile application,” Mathematical Problems in Engineering, vol. 2022, no. 1, p. 8556824, 2022.
G. I. Sari, S. Winasis, I. Pratiwi, U. W. Nuryanto et al., “Strengthening digital literacy in indonesia: Collaboration, innovation, and sustainability education,” Social Sciences & Humanities Open, vol. 10, p. 101100, 2024.
D. Abbas, K. Siahaan, and M. Yusup, “Design thinking as a business model for empowering creative entrepreneurs in the digital era,” Startupreneur Business Digital (SABDA Journal), vol. 4, no. 2, pp. 124–133, 2025.
S. R. Rocque, “Evaluating the effectiveness of mobile applications in enhancing learning and development,” International Journal of Innovative Technologies in Social Science, vol. 3, no. 35, pp. 1–8, 2022.
M. A. S. Khasawneh and Y. J. A. Khasawneh, “Analyzing the effectiveness of mobile devices and apps in supporting learning,” Migration Letters, vol. 20, no. 1, pp. 901–10, 2023.
C. O. Amaefule, J. Breitwieser, D. Biedermann, L. Nobbe, H. Drachsler, and G. Brod, “Fostering children’s acceptance of educational apps: The importance of designing enjoyable learning activities,” British journal of educational technology, vol. 54, no. 5, pp. 1351–1372, 2023.
Y. A. Alkhabra, U. M. Ibrahem, and S. A. Alkhabra, “Augmented reality technology in enhancing learning retention and critical thinking according to steam program,” Humanities and Social Sciences Communications, vol. 10, no. 1, p. 174, 2023.
N. P. L. Santoso, A. Faturahman, and S. Setiawati, “Implementation of local seo on google maps for increasing footfall conversion in building store business,” ADI Pengabdian Kepada Masyarakat, vol. 6, no. 2, pp. 186–198, 2026.
I. Muda, R. Sivaraman, S. I. S. Al-Hawary, U. Rahardja, R. S. Bader, D. Kadarsyah, and P. Chaudhary, “Hub location-allocation in computer-based networks under disruption using whale optimization algorithm,” Industrial Engineering & Management Systems, vol. 21, no. 3, pp. 503–515, 2022.
S. Papadakis, M. Kalogiannakis, and N. Zaranis, “Teaching mathematics with mobile devices and the realistic mathematical education (rme) approach in kindergarten,” Advances in Mobile Learning Educational Research, vol. 1, no. 1, pp. 5–18, 2021.
C. Wang, X. Chen, T. Yu, Y. Liu, and Y. Jing, “Education reform and change driven by digital technology: A bibliometric study from a global perspective,” Humanities and Social Sciences Communications, vol. 11, no. 1, pp. 1–17, 2024.
O. Topsakal and E. Topsakal, “Framework for a foreign language teaching software for children utilizingar, voicebots and chatgpt (large language models),” The Journal of Cognitive Systems, vol. 7, no. 2, pp. 33–38, 2022.
M. Zhang, H. Ding, M. Naumceska, and Y. Zhang, “Virtual reality technology as an educational and intervention tool for children with autism spectrum disorder: current perspectives and future directions,” Behavioral Sciences, vol. 12, no. 5, p. 138, 2022.
M. M. Sari, U. Rahardja, N. Azizah, G. Fransiso, and J. Bagaskara, “Analysis of academic information system integration in improving the quality of higher education data reporting to pddikti,” International Transactions on Education Technology (ITEE), vol. 4, no. 2, pp. 172–186, 2026.
Z. H. Wan, Y. Jiang, and Y. Zhan, “Stem education in early childhood: A review of empirical studies,” Early Education and Development, vol. 32, no. 7, pp. 940–962, 2021.
C. A. Eden, O. N. Chisom, and I. S. Adeniyi, “Harnessing technology integration in education: Strategies for enhancing learning outcomes and equity,” World Journal of Advanced Engineering Technology and Sciences, vol. 11, no. 2, pp. 001–008, 2024.
E. Yarımkaya and O. K. Esent¨urk, “Promoting physical activity for children with autism spectrum disorders during coronavirus outbreak: benefits, strategies, and examples,” International Journal of Developmental Disabilities, vol. 68, no. 4, pp. 430–435, 2022.
E. Opara, A. Mfon-Ette Theresa, and T. C. Aduke, “Chatgpt for teaching, learning and research: Prospects and challenges,” Opara Emmanuel Chinonso, Adalikwu Mfon-Ette Theresa, Tolorunleke Caroline Aduke (2023). ChatGPT for Teaching, Learning and Research: Prospects and Challenges. Glob Acad J Humanit Soc Sci, vol. 5, 2023.
M. D. T. P. Nasution, Y. Rossanty, R. Harahap, A. R. Tanjung, and T. A. M. Nasution, “Technology-driven resource utilization and integration to enhance firm performance,” Aptisi Transactions on Technopreneurship (ATT), vol. 8, no. 1, pp. 268–283, 2026.
T. G. Ford, K.-A. Kwon, and J. D. Tsotsoros, “Early childhood distance learning in the us during the covid pandemic: Challenges and opportunities,” Children and Youth Services Review, vol. 131, p. 106297, 2021.
S. Y. Cheung and K. Y. Ng, “Application of the educational game to enhance student learning,” in Frontiers in Education, vol. 6. Frontiers Media SA, 2021, p. 623793.
M. Hardini, M. Yusup, Y. M. Kareem, E. D. Astuti et al., “The implementation of digital storytelling to enhance early childhood learning experiences,” Jurnal MENTARI: Manajemen, Pendidikan dan Teknologi Informasi, vol. 4, no. 2, pp. 165–175, 2026.
A. Alam, “Improving learning outcomes through predictive analytics: Enhancing teaching and learning with educational data mining,” in 2023 7th International Conference on Intelligent Computing and Control Systems (ICICCS). IEEE, 2023, pp. 249–257.
P. D. Barua, J. Vicnesh, R. Gururajan, S. L. Oh, E. Palmer, M. M. Azizan, N. A. Kadri, and U. R. Acharya, “Artificial intelligence enabled personalised assistive tools to enhance education of children with neurodevelopmental disorders—a review,” International journal of environmental research and public health, vol. 19, no. 3, p. 1192, 2022.
P. A. Sunarya, U. Rahardja, S. C. Chen, Y.-M. Lic, and M. Hardini, “Deciphering digital social dynamics: A comparative study of logistic regression and random forest in predicting e-commerce customer behavior,” Journal of Applied Data Sciences, vol. 5, no. 1, pp. 100–113, 2024.
H. Lin and Q. Chen, “Artificial intelligence (ai)-integrated educational applications and college students’ creativity and academic emotions: students and teachers’ perceptions and attitudes,” BMC psychology, vol. 12, no. 1, p. 487, 2024.