A Self-Concept Participatory Learning Model for the Improvement of Literacy Skills of the Learners in Community Learning Centres

Illiteracy eradication manifests as an important and a common aspect in many countries' development agendas as well as in the United Nation's development initiatives. Indonesia is one of such countries. Based on the data of 2004, Indonesia has at least 28 regencies that still have high illiteracy rates. This condition hinders national growth and development of a country. With a Functional Literacy (FL) program designed and implemented to alleviate illiteracy in the country, this study investigates the effectiveness of a self-concept based participative learning model in improving literacy. The investigation is carried out in Cirebon Regency, on 40 Sub-districts and 125 Community Learning Centers (CLCs). Based on cluster sampling technique, two sub-districts are chosen as the sample for the study. A participative learning model is implemented in this study and an investigation is performed using a quantitative approach, complemented with a qualitative approach. The data is analyzed using three techniques: Descriptive statistical analysis, descriptive qualitative analysis and comparison analysis. Data validity, reliability and objectivity are tested to ensure that the research instruments used are appropriate. From the data analysis, it is concluded that the implemented model is effective in improving learners' literacy skills and it is proven by the difference in literacy skills of the experimental group and the control group. The improvement is also found to be statistically significant, as evidenced by a t_calc value higher than the t_table.