Background

SMA Dharma Suci, located in North Jakarta, is one of the secondary educational institutions that may have varying levels of readiness when it comes to educational technology, including machine learning and robotics. A situational analysis begins with an assessment of the existing infrastructure at the school. This includes the availability of information technology facilities, such as the availability of computers, supporting hardware and software, as well as access to a stable internet connection. This infrastructure is crucial for the implementation of machine learning introduction programs, which require adequate hardware and software.

An evaluation of the existing curriculum and learning materials at SMA Dharma Suci was also conducted to determine whether the school already offered information technology or computer-related subjects that included aspects of machine learning.. Evaluasi ini penting untuk menentukan bagaimana program pengenalan machine learning dapat diintegrasikan ke dalam kurikulum yang ada atau apakah diperlukan penyesuaian untuk mencakup topik-topik tersebut. Aspek lain yang perlu diperhatikan adalah tingkat pemahaman dan kesiapan siswa dan guru terhadap teknologi machine learning. Survei atau wawancara dengan guru dan siswa dapat memberikan wawasan tentang pengetahuan yang sudah ada, ketertarikan, dan kebutuhan pelatihan lebih lanjut. Ini termasuk mengevaluasi seberapa familiar mereka dengan konsep-konsep dasar machine learning dan robotika, serta identifikasi keterampilan tambahan yang mungkin diperlukan untuk mendukung implementasi program ini.

The social and cultural environment of the school is also an important factor in the situational analysis. Understanding students’ backgrounds and the needs of the school community can help in designing programs that are both relevant and engaging. For example, consideration should be given to how machine learning and robotics can be applied within a local context or connected to students’ interests and aspirations. By conducting a comprehensive analysis of infrastructure, curriculum, levels of understanding, and the social context at SMA Dharma Suci, the machine learning introduction program for robotics can be tailored to the school’s specific needs, ensuring that the initiative is well-received and provides maximum benefits for the entire school community. One significant challenge is the limited technological infrastructure available at the school. Many existing facilities may not adequately support the hardware and software required to run machine learning applications effectively. This includes the need for computers with sufficient specifications as well as fast and reliable internet access.

In addition, the current curriculum at SMA Dharma Suci may not yet include in-depth machine learning content. This creates challenges in integrating the technology into the learning process, as existing materials have not been adapted to incorporate machine learning and robotics topics. Limited understanding of these technologies among teachers also presents an obstacle, as educators require additional training to effectively deliver the material to students. To address these challenges, several solutions have been proposed, including upgrading the school’s technological facilities by providing more advanced computers and improving internet connectivity. Furthermore, curriculum revisions are needed to incorporate machine learning and robotics modules, accompanied by intensive teacher training programs to ensure educators are prepared to teach these subjects. The implementation of these solutions will enable SMA Dharma Suci to overcome existing limitations and introduce machine learning effectively, allowing students to acquire skills that are highly relevant for the future.

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE ACTIVITY

The implementation of the machine learning for robotics introduction program at SMA Dharma Suci began with the development of presentation slides designed to deliver the material comprehensively and engagingly. This process involved preparing relevant content and organizing information into a format that was easy for students to understand. After the slides were completed (see Figure 1), a review session was conducted with Mr. Yohanes Calvinus to ensure the quality and accuracy of the presentation materials. Subsequently, communication was established with Ms. Minani to discuss and finalize the details of the activity. These discussions covered scheduling, venue arrangements, and logistical requirements to ensure the smooth execution of the program. Preparations were also carried out for student assistants, ensuring they understood their responsibilities in supporting the event. Their roles included assisting with technical arrangements and providing support during the presentation.

The highlight of the program was the presentation held on Thursday (19/12/2023) in a classroom at SMA Dharma Suci (see Figure 2). The event was attended by 43 students and one guidance and counseling teacher. The presentation was designed to provide an in-depth understanding of machine learning and its applications in robotics while motivating students through practical and interactive examples. The activity aimed to introduce emerging technologies and equip students with skills relevant to future developments.

Figure 1. Presentation Cover Slide

Figure 2. Activity Implementation

The implementation method for the machine learning for robotics introduction program at SMA Dharma Suci was designed to ensure effectiveness and active participant engagement. The method consisted of several key stages:

1. Planning and Preparation: The process began with detailed planning of the presentation materials and activity format. The development team prepared presentation slides covering an introduction to machine learning, fundamental concepts, robotics applications, and practical examples. The slides were designed to ensure that information was delivered clearly and attractively. Once completed, the materials were reviewed with Mr. Yohanes Calvinus to assess content quality and ensure alignment with the objectives of the program.
2. Coordination and Communication: The next step involved coordinating with Ms. Minani, the activity coordinator at SMA Dharma Suci, to ensure that all logistical and administrative aspects were properly organized. Discussions included scheduling, venue arrangements, and technical requirements such as presentation equipment.
3. Preparation of Student Assistants: Student assistants were trained to support the activity through brief orientation sessions regarding their responsibilities. These tasks included assisting with equipment setup, facilitating interactive discussions, and addressing participants’ questions. They were also provided with guidance on effective communication and interaction with students.
4. Presentation Implementation: On Thursday (19/12/2023), the presentation was conducted in a classroom at SMA Dharma Suci. The session began with an introduction to machine learning, followed by explanations of its fundamental concepts and applications in robotics. Practical examples and a question-and-answer session were incorporated to encourage student engagement. The activity was attended by 43 students and one guidance and counseling teacher, all of whom were given opportunities to participate in discussions and further explore the topics presented.
5. Evaluation and Feedback: Following the presentation, an evaluation was conducted to assess the effectiveness of the program. Feedback from participants, along with observations gathered during the event, was used to identify strengths and areas for improvement in future implementations.

This structured approach ensured that the introduction of machine learning to SMA Dharma Suci students was conducted systematically and comprehensively, with the primary objective of providing a meaningful and practical understanding of the technology.

CONCLUSION

Introducing advanced technologies such as machine learning and robotics at SMA Dharma Suci represents a strategic step toward preparing students for future challenges. Although significant challenges remain, particularly regarding technological infrastructure and curriculum readiness, the proposed solutions—including facility upgrades, curriculum enhancement, and intensive teacher training—can provide a strong foundation for successful implementation. With the commitment and support of all stakeholders, SMA Dharma Suci can not only overcome existing obstacles but also become a pioneer in technology education in North Jakarta. Such initiatives will create new opportunities for students to develop relevant skills and compete effectively in the digital era, ensuring they are better prepared for a future increasingly shaped by technological innovation.

Volume 5 | No. 4 | Editor: Hetty Tunjungsari

Authors:
Joni Fat | Secretary of the Electrical Engineering Study Program, Untar
Akhmad Sabillah | Faculty of Engineering, Untar