On Tuesday, December 19 2023, at the D10 Mathematics Building, Semarang State University, a very special event was held, namely “Inclusive Mathematics Education Learning Media Work Title”. This event is the culmination of collaboration carried out by 127 students of the Mathematics Education Study Program who have succeeded in producing 25 innovative learning media products to help children with special needs learn mathematics.
Inclusive mathematics learning is the main focus of these students. They are determined to create learning media that provides equal learning opportunities for all children, including children with special needs. The accompanying lecturer for this activity is Dr. Drs. Sugiman, M.Sc. and Dr. Dra. Emi Pujiastuti, M.Pd., who always provides guidance and inspiration to students.
This event was opened and officiated directly by Dr. Mulyono, M.Si., Mathematics Lecturer and Coordinator of the FMIPA Mathematics Cluster, Semarang State University. In an atmosphere of joy and enthusiasm, Dr. Mulyono symbolically cut the ribbon marking the start of the exhibition of works on inclusive mathematics learning media.
The students involved in this activity have produced various innovative products for mathematics learning media, which are specifically designed for children with special needs. Through the use of technology and their creativity, these products include various forms, such as interactive game applications, video tutorials, and learning aids that can help children with special needs understand and master mathematical concepts better.
The title of Inclusive Mathematics Education Learning Media Work is a concrete manifestation of the collaboration and dedication of students and accompanying lecturers in carrying out the mandate of inclusive education. In the development process, they continuously involve related parties, including teachers, parents, experts in the field of inclusive education, and also special schools (SLB). All parties share knowledge, experiences and views to achieve a common goal, namely providing equal educational rights for children with special needs.
In his speech, Dr. Mulyono expressed his pride in the enthusiasm and hard work of the students and accompanying lecturers in creating these innovative products. He also underlined the importance of developing inclusive education in an increasingly inclusive society. According to him, every child has the potential and right to receive equal and quality education, without exception.
This work title gives hope for equal access to education for all children in this country. Collaboration between academics, students, educational practitioners and other related parties will give birth to new findings and innovative learning methods. The hope is that through the continuation of this activity, more and more children with special needs will be able to learn and develop optimally, according to their potential.
In this series of events, students and accompanying lecturers also exhibited their work to the wider public. These innovative products were tested by children with special needs who were willing to become research subjects. Their response to the learning media presented was very encouraging, they reported increased interest and understanding of mathematics through the use of this inclusive learning media.
The title of Inclusive Mathematics Education Learning Media Work is not the end of this collaborative journey. The students and accompanying lecturers have formulated plans for further development and distribution of these products to more schools and educational institutions. They are committed to continuing to create inclusive learning media, as well as continuing to learn and adapt to suit the development of the educational needs of children with special needs in the future.
From this activity, we are reminded again how important inclusive education is in maintaining equal educational rights for children with special needs. Hopefully, steps like this will become an example for educational institutions and other related parties in building an inclusive society, where every child has the same opportunity to learn, develop and reach their best potential in the world of mathematics and education in general.
