KKN ABMAS ITS 2024: ELECTICS ITS Delivers Data Analysis Training to Help High School Teachers in Magetan Embrace MBKM Era

The KKN Informatics Engineering Team and ICT Teachers of Magetan High School

The Department of Informatics, part of the Faculty of Intelligent Electrical and Informatics Technology (ELECTICS) at Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS), continues to demonstrate its commitment to community service through the KKN ABMAS (Community Service Learning Program) initiative. This year, the Algorithm and Programming Laboratory of the Informatics Department carried out a KKN program focused on empowering Information and Communication Technology (ICT) teachers in Magetan Regency. This program aims to assist teachers in understanding data analysis material, now a part of the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) curriculum in high schools.

Agus Budi Raharjo, the KKN ABMAS lead and an Informatics lecturer within the Algorithm and Programming Lab team, explained that many ICT teachers in the area find it challenging to master data analysis topics. “An ICT teacher acquaintance in Magetan expressed concerns about the curriculum updates under MBKM, especially with the addition of data analysis content. They requested training, and we responded by sending a team of lecturers and students to assist,” Agus shared.

Introducing E-Learning IT as a Learning Resource

The training was conducted in two formats: a synchronous session held on June 20, and asynchronous learning available through ITS’s e-learning platform. “We designed the asynchronous learning component to enable teachers and students to learn independently, with a total of 32 hours of content. They will receive a certificate upon completing the program,” Agus added.

During the training, ICT teachers were introduced to various data analysis materials, including Google Colab, Python, and a range of additional libraries. Other covered topics included basic data analysis, descriptive statistics, data processing, and exploratory data analysis. Agus noted that the curriculum was tailored to align with the MBKM curriculum requirements and the teachers’ guidebooks.

Data Analysis Learning Process at High Schools in Magetan

The planning and implementation of this program began in April. Faculty and students played active roles throughout, from preparation to evaluation. The KKN ABMAS team faced several challenges, such as the significant distance between Surabaya and Magetan and the fact that data analysis material was new for many teachers. Nevertheless, Agus and his team overcame these obstacles with thorough preparation and interactive teaching methods. “We presented the material creatively and included ice-breaking activities to keep participants engaged,” he added.

The program received a very positive response from the local community. Many teachers expressed hope that similar training could be held again in the future. “They mentioned wanting us to return with new topics or different participants next year,” Agus said. Looking ahead, the KKN ABMAS team plans to expand the program’s reach by establishing broader collaborations, including with UNICEF’s Digital Skills program in partnership with the East Java Department of Education. “We hope to reach more areas throughout East Java, not just one regency,” Agus revealed.

Agus concluded by expressing his hope that KKN ABMAS activities will continue to foster closer connections between lecturers, students, and the community. “This KKN provides ITS with an opportunity to build goodwill through valuable contributions, benefiting not only the institution but the wider community,” Agus shared. He emphasized the importance of students’ interaction with society, noting that experiences like these create lasting memories outside of formal academic pursuits.