Non-Verbal Reasoning Profile in the Holistic Model School (PHMS) of Character-Based Holistic Education (CBHE) by Indonesia Heritage Foundation (IHF) Depok

The Character-Based Holistic Education (CBHE) model is an educational framework developed by the Indonesia Heritage Foundation (IHF) to align with the cultural structures and values of Indonesian society. It is implemented in IHF’s model schools, including Character Kindergarten and Character Elementary School in Depok, serving as a laboratory for teachers, education practitioners, and government agencies to observe and learn its practical applications. IHF reports that 6,607 teachers and schools have adopted this model, with 5,856 at the early childhood level and 751 at the primary level. The CBHE model emphasizes character as a core value while integrating Higher-Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) into the learning process. This study investigates whether classroom practices meet these core values by assessing non-verbal reasoning skills as an indicator of HOTS. Using the Nijmeegse Schoolbekwaamheids Test (NST), the study examined 121 children, comprising 83 from Character Kindergarten and 38 from Non-Character Kindergarten. Results indicate that 12% of Character Kindergarten children achieved a "good" category in non-verbal reasoning, while none of the Non-Character Kindergarten children reached this level. These findings highlight the effectiveness of the CBHE model in promoting higher-order cognitive skills.