The Effect of Classroom Design on The Learning Comfort Level of Visually Impaired Students

Abstract

The classroom environment is essential in creating a conducive learning environment. Learning comfort, especially for visually impaired students, will be better if the learning environment is set according to their ability level. This study aims to identify the influence of classroom design on the learning comfort level of visually impaired students. This study involved 52 respondents from the PISMP program specializing in Special Education for Visual Impairment at IPGKIK. The research instrument included a questionnaire analyzed with descriptive statistics using frequency, percentage, and mean methods. Meanwhile, inferential statistical data was tested using Pearson's correlation to determine the influence of classroom design on the learning comfort level of visually impaired students. The study's findings show the appropriateness of the design elements of the visually impaired students' classrooms, namely space and layout elements and lighting elements, were at a high level (mean = 3.56). In addition, the learning comfort level
of visually impaired students, from cognitive and socio-emotional aspects, orientation, and mobility, was also high (mean = 3.93). The findings show a  significant relationship between classroom design and the level of learning comfort of visually impaired students (N = 52, r = 0.415, p = 0.01). Therefore, the classroom design for visually impaired students needs to be planned carefully because the appropriate environment can affect the satisfaction of the learning environment and student behavior.