Using Coping Strategies of Informal Sector Traders amid COVID-19 in Indonesia for Social Studies Teaching Materials on Realizing SDGs

Abstract

The objectives of this study are first, to analyze the coping strategies of informal sector traders amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic; and second, to take the results of this research as social studies teaching materials in realizing sustainable development goals (SDGs). This study uses a qualitative approach with a case study method. The data collection techniques are in-depth interviews, observations, and documents of micro business actors, especially street food and food stalls. The two groups are some of the micro-entrepreneurs affected by social distancing policies. The results of the study show that there are various strategies carried out by food stall businesses and food street vendors, including online trading, storage and conversion into frozen food, and finding strategic locations. Online food application features are a mainstay for expanding marketing. Meanwhile, moving to a trading location becomes a rational choice when there are additional rules because of the COVID-19 transmission prevention policy, such as limiting business time, and not being allowed to accept food orders on the spot. To reduce losses due to the fluctuating purchasing power of customers, they process their food into frozen food and sell it via social network. The ability to adapt to this pandemic situation is material for teaching students, especially junior high schools, about adaptive economic activities. Moreover, human efforts in overcoming economic problems, so as not to increase the poverty level as expected in the SDG's are required; this can take the form of efforts to minimize poverty and develop sustainable production and consumption.