Generation Alpha Speaks: Empowerment Strategy for Elementary School Children in Semi-Rural Area of ​-​-West Bandung Nabilla Anasty Fahzaria, Alexandria Cempaka Harum, Ferra Martian, Izni Nur Indrawati Maulani, Kenie Eishadianti, Muhammad Nur Alief Fathansyah
Universitas Islam Bandung
Abstract
Generation Alpha, born after 2010, has limited communication skills due to high use of digital devices, requiring the development of public speaking skills and self-confidence. The Community Service Program (PkM) at SDN 10 Lembang, West Bandung Regency, targets students in semi-rural areas with low living costs, adequate access to services, and proximity to nature. Situational analysis revealed challenges such as minimal soft skills training, limited human resource teachers, and a less supportive socio-economic environment. The ^Generation Alpha in Semi-Rural Area Development^ program aims to improve communication skills, self-confidence, and support SDGs number 4 (Quality Education). The Participatory Action Research (PAR) method is used with the stages of observation, reflection, planning strategy, action, and evaluation, involving the community collaboratively with PkM activities including interactive workshops, roleplaying, and storytelling. The results show that the public speaking skills of Generation Alpha in semi-rural areas are influenced by environmental factors, local culture, family background, and limited facilities and training. The test results showed significant improvements in students^ knowledge and skills, supported by a creative approach, a safe learning environment, and constructive feedback from the facilitator. Storytelling and roleplaying methods have proven effective in increasing students^ self-confidence, imagination, cooperation, and courage to speak in public. This program is the foundation for developing Generation Alpha^s soft skills, preparing them to become communicative, confident individuals who are ready to face global challenges and are expected to enrich basic education literature and become a reference in developing effective communication strategies for Generation Alpha in semi-rural areas.
Keywords: Public Speaking- Confidence- Generation Alpha- Semi-Rural Education- SDGs.
