The Influence of Early Childhood Teachers’ Exemplary Behavior on Students’ Learning Motivation at PAUD Haleluya Pematang Siantar
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Abstract
Early childhood education forms the foundation for cognitive, social, emotional, and moral development, with the teacher’s exemplary behavior emerging as a critical factor influencing students’ learning motivation. This study examines how early childhood teachers’ conduct at PAUD Haleluya Pematang Siantar, a Christian-based institution, affects preschoolers’ enthusiasm, engagement, and persistence in learning activities. Employing a quantitative descriptive design, data were collected from five teachers and fifty students using observation checklists, motivation rating scales, and semi-structured interviews. Teacher behavior indicators included moral consistency, empathy, patience, enthusiasm, and fairness, while student motivation was assessed in terms of autonomy, competence, and relatedness, following Deci and Ryan’s Self-Determination Theory. Quantitative analysis revealed a strong positive correlation (r = 0.74, p < .05) between teachers’ exemplary behavior and students’ motivation, with teacher behavior explaining 54% of the variance in motivation. Observational and interview data further demonstrated that teachers’ modeling of patience, persistence, and compassionate interactions not only increased engagement but also influenced peer behavior, creating a cooperative and empathetic classroom climate. Within the Christian educational framework, teacher exemplarity integrates spiritual practices such as prayer, gratitude, and reflection, reinforcing moral formation alongside intellectual growth. The findings underscore the dual pedagogical and spiritual role of teachers: serving as both instructors and living examples of Christ-like character. The study concludes that fostering exemplary teacher behavior is essential for promoting intrinsic motivation, moral development, and holistic learning in early childhood Christian education, positioning the teacher’s life as the most enduring “textbook” for shaping young minds and hearts.
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