“From Farm To Table” : The Agro-Business Module For Students with Special Educational Needs

Abstract

This study aims to identify the elements required for the development of the Agro-Business Module “From Farm to Table” and validate the Agro-Business Module “From Farm to Table” based on hydroponic crop cultivation to support teacher’s instruction for Students with Special Educational Needs (SEN). The development of this module was undertaken to meet the needs of practical learning, systematic, and entrepreneurship-oriented vocational skills teaching in line with the basic agricultural Vocational Skills Curriculum Document (DKKV). The module adopts a hands-on approach covering the entire “From Farm to Table” process, from seed germination and hydroponic cultivation to harvesting, processing, and marketing. The research design adopted a module development study approach involving three main phases: needs analysis, module design and development, and evaluation. Data for the need analysis phase were collected through interviews with two lecturers from the Faculty of Technical and Vocational Education and three special education teachers with experience in agriculture and SEN instruction. Findings from the needs analysis indicate that hydroponic cultivation activities are highly suitable for the SEN context due to their short cultivation period, ease of management, safety, and ability to enhance students’ understanding through hands-on learning. Expert validation results revealed that the developed module achieved its objectives, was appropriate, and presented information clearly for special education teaching. The module was also found to be effective in assisting teachers to plan and implement instruction in a more structured manner, while increasing active engagement among SEN students in learning activities. In conclusion, the Agro-Business Module “From Farm to Table” has the potential to serve as a practical and relevant instructional support material for special education teachers and to contribute holistically to the development of vocational and entrepreneurial skills among SEN students.