Managing Teaching Factory Programs to Develop Student Character and Work Readiness in Vocational High Schools

I Iwan; Emay Mastiani

doi:10.58905/jse.v7i1.763

Authors

I Iwan Nusantara Islamic University, Bandung, Indonesia
Emay Mastiani Nusantara Islamic University, Bandung, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.58905/jse.v7i1.763

Keywords:

teaching factory, vocational education management, production-based learning, student character development, vocational high school

Abstract

This study examines the management of Teaching Factory (TeFa) programs in developing student character and vocational skills in vocational high schools. The research is motivated by the need to improve the relevance of vocational education to industry demands while fostering professional attitudes and work readiness among students. Teaching Factory is viewed as a production-based learning model that requires effective management to achieve sustainable educational outcomes. The study employed a qualitative approach with a descriptive case study design. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participant observations, and document analysis involving school principals, Teaching Factory managers, vocational teachers, students, and industry partners at SMK Sinar Prahiangan, Kabupaten Cianjur, and SMK Negeri 1 Kota Sukabumi. Data were analyzed using the interactive model of Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña, while data trustworthiness was ensured through triangulation, member checking, and audit trails. The findings reveal that Teaching Factory management is implemented through four interrelated functions: planning, organizing, implementation, and evaluation. Planning aligns curriculum and industry standards with character education goals; organizing structures human resources, facilities, and workflows to simulate real industrial environments; implementation engages students in authentic production-based learning; and evaluation ensures quality assurance through performance assessment and industry feedback. The study concludes that systematic Teaching Factory management effectively enhances students’ vocational competencies and professional character, contributing to improved work readiness and industry relevance

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