In today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape, the integration of technology has become indispensable, especially in catering to the diverse needs of learners. A recent study conducted by I Gusti Ayu Agung Diatri Indradewi and Putu Yudia Pratiwi, lecturers in the Information System Study Program at Universitas Pendidikan Ganesha, sheds light on the pivotal role of learning media in the teaching-learning process, particularly within the context of Sekolah Luar Biasa (SLB) or Special Needs Schools. This research not only addresses the challenges faced by teachers but also underscores the Information System Department’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by supporting research endeavors that align with SDGs.
The study highlights the pressing need for teachers in SLBs to develop their creativity in crafting learning media that cater to the unique requirements of special needs children. However, a significant hurdle identified in this process is the lack of awareness among teachers regarding suitable tools for creating media and their limited technological proficiency. These challenges necessitated the design of activities aimed at enhancing teachers’ creativity in utilizing Canva, a user-friendly design platform, for creating learning media.
The structured activities included the presentation of material, hands-on practice with Canva, and presentation of the resultant learning media. The outcomes of these activities were encouraging, with teachers demonstrating a commendable grasp of Canva’s functionalities and successfully creating learning media that met the desired standards. The assessment of media design yielded an average score of 85.25, indicating a high level of competence in leveraging technology for educational purposes.
Moreover, the evaluation of the activities revealed a positive response from teachers, with a percentage score of 89.40% denoting their enthusiasm and receptiveness towards incorporating technology-enhanced learning experiences into their teaching practices. This not only enhances the quality of education but also fosters inclusivity by catering to the diverse learning needs of students in SLBs.
By supporting research endeavors such as this, the Information System Department at Universitas Pendidikan Ganesha reaffirms its commitment to the SDGs, particularly Goal 4: Quality Education, and Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities. Through initiatives aimed at empowering teachers with technological skills and promoting inclusive education practices, the department contributes significantly to creating a more equitable and accessible learning environment for all learners, including those with special needs.
In conclusion, this research underscores the transformative potential of technology in education and the pivotal role of academic institutions in driving positive change aligned with the SDGs. By fostering a culture of innovation and equipping educators with the necessary tools and knowledge, we can pave the way toward a more inclusive and sustainable future for education.
