Optimization of Hybrid Learning Approach for Power Electronics Course Using Virtual Laboratory to Prepare Teachers in Industry 4.0

Abstract

Many challenges need to be addressed in facing the Industry 4.0 (I4.0), especially for teachers in schools or colleges. One of them is how to adapt a learning process with I4.0 where computers and technologies play an important role. A hybrid learning approach using a virtual laboratory could be the answer to this problem. Hybrid learning combines face-to-face learning, e-learning, virtual laboratory and practice in a laboratory. It could optimize the advantages of all methods and introduce educational technology to students. Furthermore, it will prepare the vocational teacher candidates in facing the I4.0. This paper focuses on developing, implementing and optimizing a power electronic course for vocational students with a hybrid learning approach using a virtual laboratory in Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The hybrid learning approach is validated by experts from electrical engineering education using an assessment method and analyzed by means statistically. The result shows that the hybrid learning approach by using virtual laboratory can be adopted for improving the analytical thinking skills in solving power electronics problems for students as a vocational teacher candidate.