Children with disabilities are often seen as different, which can make them targets for bullying. An ethnopedagogical approach to a more inclusive education can be achieved through wayang. Ethnopedagogy is an approach to education that promotes the use of culture in the educational process, which can be more effective, especially in transmitting values.

Wayang is a traditional puppet shadow show or theatrical dance from Java, Indonesia, that is still a highly important part of Javanese and Balinese culture. Wayang performances serve not only as entertainment, but also as a means to transmit cultural values. Some wayang characters have disabilities, such as Batara Guru who rides on an ox due to his paralyzed leg, or Semar who is hunchbacked. These characters are often portrayed as wise and powerful people who play an important role in society.

These disabled wayang characters can help students see that disability does not mean weakness or inferiority. Instead, they portray resilience, courage, and wisdom. By exposing students to wayang characters with disabilities, educators can help them develop a more positive understanding of disability, and thus create more inclusive learning environments.

This paper presents a qualitative method using literature research with a narrative approach to the subject.

Authors:
Esther Idayanti, STT International Harvest, Indonesia
Herman Poroe, STT International Harvest, Indonesia
Evinta Hotmarlina, STT International Harvest, Indonesia

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Esther Idayanti is currently the Head of Research and Community Service, and a faculty member at Harvest International Theological Seminary (STT Internasional Harvest) in Tangerang, Indonesia. Her interests are in education and theology.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Saturday Schedule

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