Learning Station Method in Special Education Programs for Students with Learning Disabilities

This study is to determine the effectiveness of the Learning Station Method (LSM) in the Special Education Programme for students with learning disabilities. LSM is a teaching and learning method equipped with effective teaching materials that emphasise ‘hands-on experience’ and learning through play. This method is an alternative method to the traditional teaching and learning method that is currently being implemented in Special Education Programmes in Malaysia as it provides students with opportunities for experiential learning and is also conducted according to students’ individual ability and interests. The objective of this study is to determine the effectiveness of LSM in increasing students’ interest in learning, mastery of the skills taught and changes in students’ behaviour. This study is quasi-experimental with control and treatment groups, using pre- and post-tests. Sixteen students who were diagnosed with developmental delay were recruited for this study. They were from the Special Education Learning Disabilities Programme in Astana Primary School, Kuching. Data were analysed with SPSS. Research findings showed that LSM was successful in increasing students’ interest, mastery of skills taught and positive behaviour. Therefore, this study will help the Ministry of Education and special education teachers to plan and implement better the Learning Station Method to make it more effective in developing the mental, physical and social skills of students with special needs.