MYP 4-5 Service as Action:
Engaging and Learning Together at Yayasan Karya Murni
By Ms. Imelda Hutabarat, Service as Action Coordinator
As part of their Service as Action experience, the MYP 4-5 students visited Pendidikan SLB B Karya Murni, a school supporting students with hearing impairments. The visit was a memorable experience that allowed the students to learn beyond the classroom and develop a deeper understanding of empathy, inclusion, and respect for others.
During the visit, the Karya Murni team gave an informative presentation about how the school supports its students, their daily lives, and their learning experiences. The MYP 4-5 students found the presentation very interesting and meaningful, as it broadened their understanding of the different ways people communicate, learn and experience the world.
One of the highlights of the visit was seeing the MYP 4-5 students excitedly introduce themselves using basic sign language they had learned before the visit. Another highlight was the performance by the Karya Murni students, who presented two incredible dances. Their teacher explained that the students learned the dances by responding to vibration and rhythm, which made the performance even more special to experience.
The visit continued with fun and meaningful activities, including canvas painting and the Lip-Reading Whisper Game. Students from both schools had the opportunity to interact, have fun, and learn from one another. They communicated using basic sign language, gestures, and expressions, while teachers supported them with interpretation when needed.
Throughout the visit, the MYP 4-5 students showed respect, care, and open-mindedness. They genuinely enjoyed every moment and participated actively in the activities. The laughter, interactions, and collaboration reminded us that inclusion begins when we are willing to understand and engage with one another. The experience also aligned closely with Sustainable Development Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities, giving the students an opportunity to experience how everyone can participate and contribute in their own way..
After the visit, the MYP 4-5 students wrote reflections about how grateful they were for the opportunity to meet the students at Karya Murni and learn with them. They reflected on how the experience helped them develop ATL skills, particularly communication, collaboration, and social skills.
Overall, the visit to Karya Murni was a truly meaningful experience. The MYP 4-5 students made happy memories, and came away with new perspectives and a greater appreciation of the importance of inclusion and respect.
