Teachers' Effective Strategies to Promote Friendship between Students with Special Needs and Regular Students in Primary Schools

Authors

  • Y Yeni Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta
    Indonesia
  • I Inas Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta
    Indonesia
  • Nur Fauziah Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta
    Indonesia
  • M Minsih Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta
    Indonesia
  • Siti Marpuah Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia
    Malaysia

Keywords:

Teacher Strategies, friendship, Children With Special Needs

Abstract

This study aims to identify the strategies used by teachers in fostering friendships between students with special needs and regular students at SDN Nayu Barat 1. The main issue addressed is the limited positive social interaction between both student groups. This research employed a qualitative approach with a case study design. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and documentation. The findings show that peer tutoring and collaborative learning strategies effectively promote social interaction, confidence, and empathy in students with special needs. Teachers also created a supportive classroom environment through heterogeneous grouping, buddy systems, and emotional support. However, challenges such as lack of parental support and difficulties in managing tantrum behaviors remain. The study concludes that teacher strategies play a significant role in establishing inclusive social relationships and supporting the success of inclusive education in elementary schools.

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Submitted

2025-08-26

Published

2025-03-25

How to Cite

Yeni, Y., Inas, I., Fauziah, N., Minsih, M., & Marpuah, S. (2025). Teachers’ Effective Strategies to Promote Friendship between Students with Special Needs and Regular Students in Primary Schools. InclusivEdu: Journal of Inclusion, Diversity & Disability in Education, 1(1), 25–30. Retrieved from https://journals2.ums.ac.id/InclusivEdu/article/view/12618

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