Value added of teaching factory learning in services production unit to prepare graduate work readiness

Abstract

Teaching Factory Learning (TEFA) is a bridge to train students' skills to have work qualifications according to industry needs. The study examined the perspectives of students on TEFA learning in service production units in vocational schools to prepare the graduate work readiness (GWR). Research informants were students of Vocational Schools in the Special Region of Yogyakarta. The research was a qualitative descriptive approach. The data collection techniques were interviews and observations. Then, the collected data were validated using source triangulation. The research showed that students' perspectives on TEFA learning provided added values in 3 domains: 1) knowledge, 2) skills, and 3) Attitudes. Moreover, TEFA learning was able to prepare students to have competencies according to the needs of performance criteria in the industrial world, increase self-confidence and learning motivation, and foster a mental attitude of independence, responsibility, and industrial work culture.