Sidoarjo — Limited access to additional educational support outside school remains a challenge for many elementary students. This issue encouraged Nensy Megawati Simanjuntak, Imayah, Victor MTL Tobing, and Sumartono from Dr. Soetomo University to launch the Learning Together Movement, a free community-based tutoring initiative in Tambak Rejo, Waru, Sidoarjo. Published in 2026 in the Jurnal Pengabdian Masyarakat Formosa, the program shows that simple educational assistance within neighborhood communities can strengthen children’s reading, arithmetic, and self-confidence. The findings are important because literacy and numeracy are key foundations for children’s future academic success.
Educational inequality remains a visible issue in Indonesia, especially for children who depend only on formal school instruction. Many students lack access to additional learning support due to economic limitations or the absence of educational resources in their surroundings. This is especially critical for lower-grade elementary students who are in the crucial phase of building reading comprehension and basic mathematical skills.
Through the Learning Together Movement, the research team introduced a community-centered learning model involving five second- and third-grade students living in Tambak Rejo. The tutoring sessions were conducted once a month in a relaxed, interactive setting tailored to each student’s needs.
Unlike formal classrooms that are often limited by time and class size, this community model created a more personal learning environment. Children not only practiced reading and mathematics but also engaged in educational games, storytelling, vocabulary exercises, and simple discussions.
Nensy Megawati Simanjuntak from Dr. Soetomo University explained that the program was designed to make children feel comfortable and motivated. Learning in their own neighborhood created a safe environment where students felt more confident asking questions and participating actively.
During the program, significant changes were observed. In Indonesian language sessions, students who initially struggled with reading fluency gradually improved. They became more confident in retelling stories and answering comprehension questions. Their vocabulary also expanded, especially when lessons were connected to daily life experiences.
In mathematics sessions, students who previously found basic operations difficult showed steady improvement. They understood concepts faster when lessons were delivered through games and visual tools. This approach made mathematics feel less intimidating and more enjoyable.
Meanwhile, in English lessons, students who were initially shy became more confident in pronouncing new vocabulary. Picture-based learning, songs, and simple games helped them memorize and practice new words more effectively. Peer interaction also encouraged them to participate more actively.
Interestingly, the impact extended beyond academics. Students demonstrated stronger motivation, higher confidence, and better social interaction. They became more willing to ask questions, discuss ideas, and support each other during tutoring sessions.
According to Nensy Megawati Simanjuntak and the team from Dr. Soetomo University, the success of the program highlights the important role of community participation in education. Learning does not have to be limited to classrooms. Neighborhood environments can also become effective educational spaces when supported by consistent mentoring.
Although the program only involved five students and was conducted once a month, the impact was considered meaningful. The researchers noted that increasing the frequency of sessions and involving more participants could generate even stronger educational outcomes.
The study demonstrates that educational solutions do not always need to be large-scale or institution-based. Small, community-centered initiatives can become important bridges in reducing learning gaps, especially in the early stages of children’s education.
At a time when literacy remains a national concern, models like the Learning Together Movement could inspire similar initiatives across Indonesia. With low costs, open access, and child-friendly approaches, the program offers a practical way to help build a stronger educational foundation for future generations.
0 Komentar