Development of Interactive Learning Video for Pet Recognition to Improve Basic Skills, Eye Contact, in Children with Autism

Children with autism spectrum disorders generally experience difficulties in basic skills, such as eye contact, attention span, and the ability to follow instructions. One effort that can be made to help improve these skills is through the use of engaging and interactive learning media. This study aims to develop an interactive learning video for pet recognition and determine its feasibility and effectiveness in improving basic skills, eye contact, focus, and instruction in children with autism. The research method used was Research and Development (R&D), with stages of needs analysis, design, development, validation, and product trials. The study subjects were children with mild to moderate levels of functioning with autism. Data collection techniques included observation, expert validation questionnaires, and skills tests before and after media use. Product validation was conducted by media experts and material experts. The practicality and effectiveness of the learning video were tested through a field trial involving autistic students at the Children with Special Needs Service Unit. The results showed that the developed interactive learning video was deemed highly feasible by media experts and material experts, with validation scores reaching 100% and 95% for material transfer, respectively. This learning video was also assessed by practitioners with a practicality score of 86% based on teacher feedback. The effectiveness of the learning video was tested through pre- and post-tests, which showed a significant improvement in pet recognition skills in students with autism, with an average post-test score of 70.63, higher than the pre-test average score of 48.38. Thus, the interactive learning video on pet recognition can be used as an effective learning medium to support the learning process of children with autism.