KEBERMAKNAAN PENDIDIKAN BAGI ANAK JALANAN (STUDI FENOMENOLOGI PADA SEKELOMPOK ANAK JALANAN DI JOGJAKARTA)

Abstract

This study aims to gain an in-depth understanding of the meaning of education for street children in Yogyakarta. The primary focus is on their subjective interpretations of the schooling process, the multifaceted obstacles they face daily, and the future projections they construct through academic pursuits. A qualitative approach utilizing phenomenology was employed to explore the subjects' lived experiences. The study involved three street children of school age who were actively pursuing formal education. Data collection was conducted through in-depth interviews, field observations, and confirmatory interviews (triangulation) with the subjects' close friends or mentors. The findings reveal that street children encounter structural and psychological challenges, such as limited study time due to the burden of earning a living, transportation difficulties, feelings of inferiority within the school environment, and unstable home emotional conditions. Nevertheless, they perceive education as a vital instrument for transforming their destinies, breaking the cycle of poverty, and fostering moral character integrity. The continuity of their education is significantly bolstered by emotional support from parents and the presence of informal learning communities serving as alternative academic support systems.