The animal clinic center: A constructivist learning model for developing naturalistic intelligence in early childhood to support SDG 4 and SDG 15

¹ Graduate Program of Early Childhood Education (Master’s and Doctoral), Faculty of Education, Universitas Negeri Surabaya, Indonesia
² Department of Early Childhood Teacher Education, Faculty of Education, Universitas PGRI Kanjuruhan Malang, Indonesia
³ Department of Early Childhood Education, Faculty of Education, Universitas Negeri Surabaya
⁴ Uzbekistan State World language university

^* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract

This study develops a constructivist learning model themed Animal Clinic Center to enhance young children’s naturalistic intelligence and empathy toward animals, supporting Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 15 (Life on Land). Using Fenrich’s instructional development cycle, the model integrates experiential and nature-oriented activities that promote meaningful engagement, cognitive development, and affective growth in early childhood. Simulated animal-care practices foster environmental awareness and responsible attitudes toward living beings. The findings provide practical guidance for early childhood educators in implementing developmentally appropriate, context-based learning that strengthens environmental literacy as part of sustainable education.