Challenges Faced by Teachers in Teaching Literacy and Numeracy for Slow Learners

The current study explored pedagogical strategies carried out by teachers to support special need children in improving their level of literacy and numeracy. The current study utilized qualitative research design where classroom observations were carried out to explore teaching activities used by teachers in teaching language and mathematics. It was then followed by a focus group discussion to identify problems faced by children in numeracy and literacy. This research was carried out in one of the elementary schools in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Data collected was analyzed manually by focusing on the main aspects. Results demonstrated that 27 activities were frequently used by teachers in teaching language and mathematics. Those activities are the common teaching practice for slow learners. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of those practices, a focus group discussion with a group of students was carried out. Results revealed that most students have problems in literacy (spelling, reading complex words, and write long words) and numeracy (counting, subtraction, multiplication and divide). As the common teaching practice was found to have minimal effect on children’s literacy and numeracy, the current study suggests rethinking of a new pedagogical approach for improving literacy and numeracy for slow learners.