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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.

The background of this research is the importance of pursuing knowledge based on good morals. The formation of Islamic character based on good morals is an important aspect that needs to be emphasized in students' lives, both in the school environment and in society. This is because good character is a reflection of the success of education, especially education based on Islamic values. However, at SMP Ma'arif NU 2 Kemranjen, several student behavioral problems were still found that indicate the suboptimal formation of Islamic character. Some students appeared unprepared when submitting memorization targets (deposits), were still outside the classroom when learning began, and arrived late to participate in the 0-hour habituation program. These problems indicate the importance of evaluating the effectiveness of the 0-hour habituation program that has been implemented by the school as an effort to form Islamic character. Therefore, this study aims to determine whether there is an effect of the 0-hour habituation program on the formation of students' Islamic character. This study used a quantitative approach with a descriptive survey method. The population in this study were all 107 eighth-grade students of SMP Ma'arif NU 2 Kemranjen from three classes. Data collection techniques were conducted through documentation of the 0-hour habituation program scores given by teachers and the Islamic character formation questionnaire completed by students. The data analysis technique used was descriptive statistics, with the calculation of averages, percentages, and data categorization. The results of the study indicate that the 0-hour habituation program did not have a significant impact on the formation of students' Islamic character. Nevertheless, this program is still being implemented because it is believed to have various benefits that can support the long-term character education process. This research contributes to schools in evaluating and developing more effective strategies for forming students' Islamic character.

The process of seeking knowledge does not merely involve intellectual intelligence but also requires emotional and spiritual strength, one of which is cultivated through patience. In fact, in today's fast-paced, instant era, many knowledge seekers often overlook the aspect of patience. Therefore, this research aims to explore the meaning and urgency of patience in seeking knowledge based on Q.S. Al-Kahfi verses 65-70, which focus on the story of Prophet Musa and Khidr. The method used in this research is a literature review with a qualitative approach, analyzing the relevant verses as well as classical and contemporary interpretations that serve as primary sources. The analysis of this article demonstrates that patience in seeking knowledge is a prerequisite for attaining true knowledge, functioning as an inner strength to overcome obstacles, maintain consistency in learning, and shape the character of a genuine learner who is not only intellectually intelligent but also spiritually mature. These findings are relevant to the integration of manners, ethics, and spirituality in contemporary Islamic education.