Track: Case Studies

Abstract

This study aimed to describe the importance of instilling noble characters and nationalism to the children with special needs to grow their awareness and foster their characters and nationalism through the appreciation of diversity in their environment. Since many cases of bullying against children with special needs happened at school, the teaching of characters and nationalism was considered urgent to grow the values of tolerance, mutual respect, and patriotism. The idea could be implemented through simple activities, including by introducing the country, culture, and regional customs. This research was performed at four schools in Semarang City, Indonesia; in which the institutions admitted special needs children. It utilized a qualitative method through a case study approach. The findings revealed that the cultivation of character building and nationalism to the children with special needs was mainstreamed with the normal children. A couple of aspects were emphasized, especially regarding characters and nationalism according to their needs, such as responsibility and care to their peers. The cooperation among parents together with the institutions could develop support system in implementing the character building and nationalism values to the children with special needs. Teachers who are not used to work with the children with special needs might experience hindrance. So, they should enhance their openness, knowledge, and attitude to optimally adjust the education needs of those children.