Batang, Central Java – Universitas Negeri Semarang (UNNES), through the Mathematics Education Study Program of the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA), continues to promote creative and engaging learning innovations. One of them is the “Math Snakes and Ladders” game media developed by Jihan Nurul Karimah, a Mathematics Education student, as part of the GIAT 13 UNNES Programme implemented in Ngaliyan Village, Limpung Subdistrict, Batang Regency.
The game-based learning media is designed to help Primary School (SD) and Madrasah Ibtidaiyah (MI) students understand fraction material in an enjoyable and interactive way. Through the concept of game-based learning, Jihan aims to offer a different learning experience from conventional methods, while fostering collaboration and healthy competition among students.
The “Math Snakes and Ladders” game is played in four groups, each led by a team leader. Each group takes turns rolling the dice and moving their pawn according to the number shown. When a pawn lands on a question-card square, the group must answer a fraction-related question that has been prepared beforehand.
The game runs for approximately 30 minutes. The group that first reaches square number 100—or occupies the highest position when time is up—is declared the winner. This simple mechanism turns the learning process into an exciting game without reducing its educational value.
According to Jihan, using game-based media not only increases students’ active participation but also provides a joyful and meaningful evaluation experience. Students can practice solving problems collaboratively while building self-confidence and critical thinking skills.
“I designed this innovation so that children feel that learning mathematics can be fun. They are not only working on exercises, but also learning through play, working together, and reflecting on the process of the game,” Jihan explained.
This activity serves as concrete evidence of UNNES students’ commitment to delivering creative learning that is relevant to the characteristics of today’s young generation. Through innovations such as the “Math Snakes and Ladders” game, the GIAT 13 UNNES Programme continues to contribute to improving the quality of education in the community.
This initiative is also aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, by promoting inclusive, engaging, and student-centred learning approaches that strengthen foundational numeracy skills and support lifelong learning from an early age.
