Implementation of the Market Fun Learning Program to Improve Social Skills, Independence, and Academic Skills of Children with Mental Disabilities at Tunas Kasih Special Needs School

Implementasi Program Market Fun Learning untuk Meningkatkan Keterampilan Sosial, Kemandirian, dan Akademik Anak Tunagrahita di SLB Tunas Kasih

Abstract

This study aims to improve the social skills and independence of children with intellectual

disabilities through a context-based learning program. Using a descriptive qualitative approach,

data were collected through observations and interviews with one sixth-grade student with

intellectual disabilities and one accompanying teacher at the Tunas Kasih Special Needs School in

Surabaya.The findings of this study resulted in the design of the "Market Fun Learning" program,

which emphasizes three main elements: social interaction, independent learning (life skills), and

academic fundamentals (multiplication). This program implements intervention strategies

involving peers, role-playing, and the Concrete–Representational–Abstract (CRA) approach to

create interactive and meaningful learning experiences. It is hoped that this program will strengthen

the social skills, independence, and academic knowledge of children with intellectual disabilities

comprehensively and serve as a simple learning model for teachers and parents to implement.

Keywords: Intellectual disability, Social skills, Independence, Context-based learning, Market

Fun Learning.