Aproaches to Training People with Disability in Mainstream Vocational Training Centers

Abstract

—In Indonesia, Vocational Training Center consists of government institutions under the Ministry of Manpower (MoM) and private training institutions as the training providers. However, only a few Vocational Training Centers have tried pilot projects involving people with disabilities in inclusive vocational training. This study investigates approaches and methods employed by instructors in conducting inclusive vocational training. We present findings from a qualitative study based on virtual focus group discussions involving eight instructors with different skill and competency backgrounds from the garment apparel, hospitality, information technology, and management business vocational departments at Vocational Training Centers under the Ministry of Manpower (MoM). The data was transcribed manually and coded using NVIVO software. The result showed that due to requirements for persons with disabilities entering vocational training, the training participants were still dominated by persons with physical and sensory disabilities. Thus, instructors tend to apply approaches and methods depending on participants with disabilities they handle. Instructors attempted using adaptive training aids and materials such as using training machines or software that are accessible to individuals with different disabilities. Physical environment and special need teacher are necessary to support inclusive training performance.