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 Education in vocational high schools (SMKs) requires effective data management to improve students’ academic achievement and discipline. At SMK Islam Secang, students’ academic scores and attendance data have so far functioned merely as administrative archives, making it difficult to identify patterns of student performance. This study aims to classify students based on academic achievement and discipline by applying the K-Means Clustering algorithm using RapidMiner. The data used in this study consist of scores from six subjects and attendance records of 35 students from the Light Vehicle Engineering (TKR) department over two semesters. The data were obtained from original school records, compiled using Microsoft Excel, and processed in RapidMiner. The clustering process employed four clusters for academic achievement and two clusters for discipline, with Euclidean Distance used as the similarity measure. The results show that in the first semester, students were grouped into four academic achievement clusters: high achievement (6 students), moderate achievement (7 students), potentially problematic (14 students), and problematic (8 students). In the second semester, the distribution changed to high achievement (19 students), moderate achievement (14 students), potentially problematic (4 students), and problematic (1 student). Meanwhile, student discipline was divided into two clusters: disciplined (31 students) and undisciplined (4 students). These results demonstrate that K-Means Clustering is effective in mapping student conditions, revealing patterns in academic performance and attendance, and supporting educational evaluation, learning planning, and early detection of students who require academic or disciplinary intervention. Keywords: Data Mining, K-Means Clustering, Academic Achievement, Discipline, RapidMiner, Vocational High School (SMK)

This research focuses on the vocational interest and readiness to enter the workforce of students in the Light Automotive Engineering (TKRO) program at SMK Negeri 2 Sungai Penuh. The purpose of this study is to determine the relationship between students' vocational interest and their readiness to enter the workforce. This type of research is a descriptive study with a correlational approach. The study involved 64 students enrolled in Light Automotive Engineering (TKRO). The sample size taken for this research was 39 students, selected through stratified random sampling using the Taro Yamane formula. Questionnaires that have been declared valid and reliable were utilized to collect data regarding the students' vocational interest and their readiness to enter the workforce. The data analysis was conducted using the Product Moment correlation formula. The results of the data analysis indicate a positive and significant relationship between vocational interest and the readiness to enter the workforce among Light Automotive Engineering (TKRO) students at SMK Negeri 2 Sungai Penuh, with a correlation coefficient of 0.442 (greater than 0.316) and a significance coefficient of 2.9982 (greater than 2.02269) at a 5% significance level.

Students of vocational high schools are required to write an internship report as a form of accountability for completing their industrial training. However, various language errors are still found in students’ PKL reports. This study aims to describe and analyze morphological errors in the PKL reports of vocational high school students majoring in Electronics Engineering. The study employed a descriptive qualitative approach using document analysis. A total of 223 PKL reports were written by all students of SMK Negeri 3 Yogyakarta in 2025. The research data consisted of 25 PKL reports from students of the Electronics Engineering major selected through purposive sampling. Data analysis was carried out through the stages of identification, classification, description, quantification, and interpretation of morphological errors, with data validity ensured through theoretical triangulation. The results show that 286 morphological errors were identified, consisting of prefix errors (96), suffix errors (52), confix errors (41), reduplication errors (28), compound word errors (34), and base-form errors (35). Prefix errors were the most dominant type, accounting for 33.6% of all errors. These findings indicate that students still experience difficulties in applying affixation rules and forming standard words in formal written language. Such errors are influenced by interference from spoken language and the technical language used in the workplace. This study highlights the importance of structured and contextual morphology instruction to improve the quality of vocational students’ PKL report writing.

This study aims to determine the effect of implementing the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) model on student learning outcomes in the Ignition System competency at SMKN 1 Katapang. The background of this study stems from the low understanding of students regarding the ignition system material due to the dominant use of the Teacher-Centered Learning (TCL) model, which tends to make students passive and only memorize concepts without understanding the overall working process. PBL is considered more relevant because it emphasizes real problem-solving, critical thinking, collaboration, and analysis according to constructivist theory. The method used is a quasi-experiment with a Nonequivalent Control Group Design. The research subjects consist of two classes of 11th-grade Light Vehicle Engineering students: an experimental group using the PBL model and a control group using TCL, with a total population of 70 students. Data collection was done through pretests and posttests using a validated multiple-choice objective test instrument. Data analysis includes comparing the learning outcome improvements of both groups to determine the effectiveness of PBL. The results show a more significant improvement in learning outcomes in the class using the PBL model compared to the TCL class. This proves that the implementation of PBL is effective in improving analysis skills and diagnostic skills in the ignition system. Therefore, PBL is recommended as a more suitable teaching model for practice-based subjects in vocational schools, especially in automotive electrical competencies.

This study aims to develop Google Site-based learning media on Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) System Maintenance material for class XI students of Automotive Light Vehicle Engineering (TKRO) at SMK Negeri 1 Padang. The background of this study is based on the problems of learning that is still monotonous, less than optimal use of digital technology in the teaching and learning process, and low motivation and independence of student learning. This study uses the Research and Development (R&D) method with a 4-D development model that includes the Define, Design, Develop, and Disseminate stages. The research subjects consisted of two experts, namely media experts and material experts, two subject teachers, and 31 class XI TKRO students. Data collection techniques were carried out through validation questionnaires and practicality questionnaires. The results of the study showed that Google Site-based learning media has a very high level of validity based on the assessment of media experts by 93.33% and material experts by 90.00%. In addition, this media was considered very practical by teachers with a percentage of 94.25% and practical by students with a percentage of 78.2%. Thus, Google Site-based learning media is declared suitable for use as a learning tool to increase learning motivation, student independence, and learning effectiveness in the EFI System Maintenance material in vocational schools.  

This study aims to determine the relationship between learning motivation and learning outcomes in SMAW welding engineering among eleventh-grade students at SMKN 2 Solok. This research employed a quantitative method with a correlational approach. The population consisted of all students from classes XI TPM 1 and XI TPM 2, totaling 51 students, using a total sampling technique. Learning motivation data were collected through a validated and reliable questionnaire, while learning outcome data were obtained from post-test scores in the SMAW welding subject. Data were analyzed using the Pearson Product Moment correlation test with the assistance of SPSS software. The results showed a correlation coefficient of r = 0.783 with a significance value of 0.000 < 0.01, indicating a strong, positive, and statistically significant relationship between learning motivation and students’ learning outcomes. These findings suggest that higher learning motivation leads to better learning outcomes in SMAW welding engineering. Therefore, learning motivation plays an important role in improving students’ academic performance. This study is expected to provide useful insights for teachers and schools in developing instructional strategies that enhance students’ motivation and learning outcomes.

Vocational education requires a practice-based learning process supported by complete facilities so that students can master work competencies optimally. However, the condition of the Motorcycle Engineering workshop at Noemuti State Vocational High School shows that the completeness of the disc brake system practice facilities does not meet the ideal ratio standards, which affects the effectiveness of learning. This incompleteness has an impact on the low achievement of students' practical learning outcomes that have not reached the KKM. This study aims to describe the level of completeness of workshop facilities and the results of the disc brake system practice learning, and to determine whether there is a relationship between the two. The research approach uses a quantitative correlational method with a total sampling of 26 students. Data were obtained through observation, questionnaires, and documentation, then analyzed using descriptive statistics, normality tests, linearity tests, Pearson correlations, and coefficients of determination using SPSS 27. The results showed that the average completeness of workshop facilities was 42.27 and the results of practical learning were 42.81, both of which were in the good category. The Pearson correlation test produced a value of r = 0.960 with a significance of 0.000 (<0.05), indicating a very strong and significant relationship. The coefficient of determination (R² = 0.92) shows that 92% of the variation in practical learning outcomes is influenced by the completeness of workshop facilities. The more complete the workshop facilities, the higher the students' practical learning outcomes.

The purpose of this scientific paper is to design and implement a knowledge-based expert system to assist students in determining their major specializations at Vocational High Schools (SMK) more objectively and accurately. A major problem frequently faced by SMK students is the mismatch in department selection caused by a lack of understanding regarding their own potential and the specific criteria of each competency. To address this issue, the system was developed using the Forward Chaining method as the inference engine. This method operates in a data-driven manner, beginning with the collection of facts such as interests, academic abilities, and psychological aspects, which are then matched against a Knowledge Base consisting of IF-THEN logical rules. Based on system testing results, the inference engine is capable of processing the list of facts to generate a specialization diagnosis for SMK students and provide the most relevant departmental recommendations, such as Computer and Network Engineering (TKJ), Accounting, Office Automation and Governance (OTKP), or Marketing. The research results indicate that the implementation of the Forward Chaining method is effective in accelerating the decision-making process and minimizing placement errors. This expert system is expected to serve as a tool for Guidance and Counseling (BK) teachers in providing appropriate career direction for students based on structured empirical data.

Rapid advances in Information Technology (IT) in the 21st century have significantly transformed educational practices, particularly in vocational high schools (SMK) specializing in Software Engineering (RPL). Traditional learning media, such as textbooks, static slides, and lectures, often fail to provide an interactive learning experience, limiting students’ engagement and reducing the effectiveness of knowledge retention. To overcome this challenge, this study focuses on developing and validating an interactive quiz application called VOCANETIC, designed as an innovative learning aid for SMK RPL students. The research uses a Research and Development (R&D) approach, emphasizing the stages of product development, expert validation, and feasibility assessment. VOCANETIC is developed using VB.NET in the Microsoft Visual Studio environment, and MySQL is employed for efficient data management and storage. The application features interactive quizzes, real-time feedback, and user-friendly interfaces to enhance student engagement and motivation. Based on evaluation and analysis by expert validators, VOCANETIC meets the “Proper” feasibility criteria, demonstrating usability, interactivity, and educational effectiveness. The results indicate that VOCANETIC is capable of supporting active learning, improving students’ understanding of software engineering concepts, and providing an effective platform for self-assessment and practice. In conclusion, the VOCANETIC application is proven to be a valid, reliable, and practical tool that can be implemented as an interactive learning medium in SMK RPL, offering an innovative approach to facilitate student learning and engagement in the digital era.                                                              

This community service activity aimed to enhance English pronunciation skills and establish a consistent speaking habit among students of SMKN 3 Palangka Raya. Thirty-six students of class X TKJ (Computer and Network Engineering) participated in a one-month program using thematic sentence templates, repetitive pronunciation drills, and self-reflection through voice recording feedback. The implementation employed a participatory and descriptive-qualitative approach, involving active collaboration between facilitators, teachers, and students throughout all stages. Weekly themes included self-introduction, daily activities, hobbies, and opinions to create a contextual and meaningful learning situation relevant to students’ daily lives. The results showed noticeable improvement in pronunciation clarity, increased awareness of pronunciation errors, and higher confidence in speaking English during classroom activities. However, aspects such as fluency and vocabulary variation remained limited due to the short duration of the program. Overall, the pronunciation habituation strategy proved effective in fostering awareness, comfort, and sustainable speaking habits when applied consistently over a longer period.

This study aims to examine the role of self-efficacy as a mediator in the influence of achievement and learning interest on the practical ability of engine tune-up in eleventh grade students of the Light Vehicle Engineering Expertise Program at Muhammadiyah Seputih Raman Vocational High School. This study used an ex post facto method with a population of all students totaling eighty-four students and the sampling technique was carried out saturated. The research instrument was prepared in the form of a questionnaire, then tested for validity with product moment correlation and reliability using the Cronbach's Alpha coefficient so that the instrument is suitable for use in obtaining data. The results showed that learning achievement has a positive influence on practical ability, as well as learning interest is proven to have a positive influence. Simultaneously, both variables contribute significantly to the practical ability of engine tune-up, while self-efficacy plays an important role in strengthening the relationship between learning achievement and learning interest with students' practical ability, so that the higher the self-efficacy, the more optimal the practical ability achieved..

The Student Creativity Program (PKM) aims to introduce Cablink network technology to students of Vocational High School (SMK) X as a form of strengthening competency in the field of Computer and Network Engineering. This activity includes the delivery of materials, installation, and hands-on practice in installing Cablink networks. The implementation method uses a participatory approach that allows students to be more active in understanding the material presented. With this approach, it is hoped that students can gain a deeper and more applicable understanding of developing network technology. During the activity, students are not only given theoretical explanations about Cablink networks, but also given the opportunity to be directly involved in the installation process, which provides very useful practical experience. The results of this activity show an increase in students' understanding of basic network concepts and technical skills in installing Cablink networks. This improvement is not only limited to the theoretical aspect, but also includes practical skills that can be directly applied in the world of work. This program is expected to be a bridge between the needs of the modern network industry and the readiness of SMK graduates to compete in the world of work. With the skills acquired through this activity, students are expected to be better prepared to face the challenges of rapidly developing technology in the fields of computers and networks. Furthermore, this activity also serves to introduce students to technologies relevant to industry needs, so they are better prepared to enter the professional world upon graduation. This program is expected to contribute to improving the quality of education at SMK X and provide significant benefits for developing students' skills in Computer and Network Engineering.

This study aims to analyze the impact of recruiting Vocational High School (SMK) Mechanical Engineering graduates on the quality of education at the Naval Academy (AAL) Technical Corps. Using a mixed methods approach with quasi-experimental design, the research involved 160 Naval Academy cadets consisting of 80 cadets with SMK Mechanical Engineering background and 80 cadets with Senior High School Science background as control. Data were collected over 4 semesters through academic achievement instruments, technical competency tests, academic adaptation scales, and in-depth interviews. Results showed that although SMK cadets experienced initial academic adaptation challenges with lower GPA in the first semester (3.12 vs 3.28), this gap narrowed over time and even showed positive trends in the final semester (3.41 vs 3.38). SMK cadets demonstrated significant superiority in technical subjects such as Ship Propulsion Systems (85.2 vs 78.9) and Auxiliary Machinery (83.7 vs 76.4), particularly in practical components. In terms of social adaptation, the SMK group consistently showed higher scores throughout the research period. Learning style analysis revealed dominance of kinesthetic (47%) and visual (31%) preferences in the SMK group, different from the SHS group which preferred read/write (38%) and auditory (29%). These findings indicate that recruiting SMK Mechanical Engineering graduates has a positive impact on the quality of AAL education, particularly in applied technical competencies and social adaptation abilities. Educational background diversity can become a strategic strength if managed through appropriate bridging programs and diversification of learning methods that accommodate the diversity of cadet learning styles.

SMK TPI Gedangan Sidoarjo is one of the private high schools in Sidoarjo that offers 3 expertise programs, namely Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Light Vehicle Engineering, and Software Engineering (RPL). These programs are designed to equip students with practical skills that are in accordance with the needs of industry and the world of work. With the vision of the school is to produce middle-class workers who are ready to enter society, industry, and become independent entrepreneurs, have a global perspective, have noble character, and can apply themselves. On the other hand, many vocational schools have not provided systematic guidance or practical curriculum on the use of various types of social media for business promotion purposes. In order to improve the quality of students, 28 students were sent to learn about how to promote MSME products through social media. This training aims to explore how vocational schools can effectively utilize social media to promote their MSME products by recognizing the differences in characteristics and functions of each platform. With this approach, patterns of social media usage that are right on target can be found as well as training or mentoring strategies that are in accordance with student needs. The results of this training can be a reference for developing relevant and applicable digital marketing learning modules in the vocational high school environment. The results of participant feedback at the end of the training showed that 91% of students could understand the material provided and the trainer could provide effective UMKM product promotion solutions according to the current needs of students.

This study aims to reveal how symbolic interaction between principals and teachers is interpreted as a social strategy in improving the employability of vocational high school students, especially in the Mechanical Engineering Expertise Competence. Using a qualitative case study approach, the research population was conducted at the Center of Excellence Vocational High Schools in Pasuruan Regency/City, while the sample was 4 vocational high schools that have mechanical engineering expertise competencies. Data collection techniques include in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and documentation studies. The results of the study indicate that the symbolic interaction that occurs is not only verbal communication, but also reflects shared values, expectations, and visions in preparing graduates who are adaptive to the world of work. The principal builds meaning through symbols of consistent leadership actions, such as involving teachers in strategic decision-making and instilling an industrial work culture. Teachers, on the other hand, respond to these symbols with more contextual and work-oriented learning practices. This interaction forms a productive school habitus that is the basis for improving student employability

Social and emotional learning (SEL) is an engaging and enjoyable method within the teaching and learning process. This approach is based on the understanding that academic success alone is insufficient to support students’ holistic development. One of the factors contributing to low learning motivation among students is the lack of implementation of social-emotional learning strategies in the classroom. This study aims to examine how the application of social-emotional learning in Catholic Religious Education influences student learning motivation. The research employed a quantitative method using a quasi-experimental design. The subjects were Grade 10 students at St. Joseph Catholic Vocational High School (SMK Katolik St. Yosef Nenuk). A total of 15 students from the Automotive Engineering class formed the experimental group, while another 15 students from the Building Construction and Computer Networking classes were assigned to the control group. The sample was selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected through questionnaires and documentation, then analyzed using an independent two-sample t-test to test the hypothesis. The results showed a significant difference in student motivation between those taught with SEL and those taught with conventional methods. This is evidenced by a t-test significance value of 0.000, which is less than 0.05. In other words, the null hypothesis (H0) is rejected, and the alternative hypothesis (Ha) is accepted. These findings reinforce that social-emotional learning is more effective than conventional teaching methods in increasing student motivation, particularly in Catholic Religious Education

This study uses a qualitative approach that describes the object studied through the process of exploring facts and data on objects in the field as they are, to achieve these objectives, data is needed that is excavated from an in-depth observation process with the principal, vice principal, head of the welding and metal fabrication engineering expertise program and teachers of productive subjects. Data collection techniques using in-depth interviews with, participant observation, and documentation. Data analysis techniques using data reduction, data presentation and drawing conclusions or verification. Checking the validity of the data using triangulation methods. The results of the study indicate that the suitability of students' technical and non-technical competencies with industry needs greatly determines the success rate of graduates in the workforce. Relevant competencies, such as mastery of modern welding technology and soft skills such as communication and teamwork, are key factors. In addition, it was found that aligning the curriculum with industry standards and the active involvement of industry partners through internship programs contributed significantly to improving the quality of graduates. This study recommends strengthening cooperation between vocational schools and the industrial world and developing training programs based on labor market needs.

This study aims to determine the effect of Internship and self-efficacy in shaping student career decisions, partially or simultaneously. The method used in this research is a quantitative method with a correlational approach. The research was conducted on 150 students at SMK Kota and Pasuruan Regency in the competence of mechanical engineering expertise. Data collection techniques using a closed questionnaire. Data were analyzed using simple and multiple linear regression tests. The results showed that there is a significant positive relationship between Internship and career decision making with a correlation value (

Hikayat as a classic work is often not widely understood by vocational school (Vocational High School) students who are related to various aspects such as language, culture and the historical context contained in the saga. Therefore, the researcher wants to solve the problem by researching directly into a class which also carries out teaching assistance activities in accordance with the requirements for completing semester 7. The subject of this research uses classroom action research. The subjects in this research were class X-I Computer Network Engineering (TKJ) students at Bina Jaya Vocational School. This research aims to find out how the use of saga as the level of knowledge of class (Computer Network Engineering), and how after carrying out the Contextual Teaching and Learning (CTL) learning model in analyzing the values contained in the saga text. This research uses a qualitative approach with descriptive methods. The data obtained was carried out through three cycles used in the pre-test-post phase of this research. Cycle I includes planning and implementation (acting), observation (observing), and evaluating (evaluating) learning activities as well as reflection (reflecting).

The increasing demand for skilled human resources in the field of automation by the workforce has encouraged vocational education institutions to align their graduates' competencies with industry needs. Students must be equipped with up-to-date skills in line with technological advancements. Currently, the availability of technical expertise programs in vocational high schools (SMK) that include industrial automation curricula is very limited. This situation does not align with the growing industrial demand for SMK graduates with automation competencies, such as wiring and PLC programming skills. Based on these circumstances, this automation system training based on PLC was conducted as part of a community service program. The activity aimed to enhance the skillsets of vocational high school students, particularly in the machining engineering department. The training utilized PLC-based automation systems with Omron CP1E E30-DR-A controllers. The PLC logic programming was performed using CX-Programmer software. The results of the program showed that most participants could grasp the material well. Moreover, all participants gained new insights and skills in industrial automation systems, which serve as valuable support when entering the workforce.