Inclusive Education Through Adaptive Communication Training for Volunteers and Community Educators Children with Special Needs

Abstract

Inclusive education requires the readiness of all elements of society, especially volunteers and teachers directly involved in supporting children with special needs (ABK). In practice, many challenges remain, particularly in communication. Adaptive communication training is a crucial strategy for improving interpersonal competency in interacting with children with special needs. This community service activity aims to provide adaptive communication training to volunteers and teachers in non-formal communities working in inclusive education. The training is based on Vygotsky's interactional communication theory and a neurodiversity approach, which emphasizes the importance of understanding children's cognitive and social diversity. The method used is participatory training with an andragogical approach. Evaluation was conducted through pre- and post-tests using a communication scenario-based assessment instrument. The results showed a significant increase in understanding and communication skills among the training participants. This activity makes a real contribution to building a more adaptive and humane inclusive education ecosystem. The conclusions of this activity indicate that adaptive communication training is highly relevant and effective in supporting the quality of inclusive education interactions.