Singaraja – Special School (SLB) Negeri 1 Buleleng serves students with special needs accross categories such as A (visually impaired), B (deaf), C (intellectually disabled), and D (physically disabled). The school accommodates students from elementary to high school levels. However, based on an interview with the school principal, Drs. Made Winarsa, several challenges in the learning process hinder optimal teaching outcomes. One critical issue identified was the lack of appropriate learning media tailored to the needs of deaf students. To address this, the Undiksha Pillar Team collaborated with the school to conduct a training program focused on creating Augmented Reality (AR) Media to Improve the quality of learning media.
Deaf students primarily rely on visual media in their learning process due to hearing impairments. They process information from their environment through their sense of sight.. Therefore, designing learning materials that align with these characteristics is crucial. Recognizing this, the Undiksha Pillar Team provided training to 20 teachers at SLB Negeri 1 Buleleng on developing augmented reality media using web-based tools and the Assemblr Studio application.
Led by Ni Wayan Deantari with team members I Made Agus Suarbawa, Ni Kadek Candra Swandewi, Ni Luh Mita Sari, and I Putu Dandy Juniawan, with guidance from their supervisor, Jean Nihana Mulya Putri Manulu, S.P., M.Si., the team secured funding through the PKM AMLI (Indonesia MIPA LPTK Association) under the PKM-PM category (Community Service). The program spanned three months, from August 2024 until October 2024 and included early surveys, program socialization, training sessions, ongoing mentoring. The program successfully enhanced the teachers abilities and skills in developing learning media. It also improved students’ learning outcomes as they engaged with teacher-created AR media during lessons. The initiative was funded by Ganesha University of Education, ensuring smooth implementation. The training program aims to contribute to the production of innovative and sustainable learning media, fostering improved educational experiences for students with special needs. This effort showcases Undiksha’s commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by educators and students in inclusive education settings.