Optimizing Educational Laboratories for Institutional Development in Indonesia.

Abstract

The use of educational laboratories in the higher education learning process plays a crucial role in facilitating practical understanding of complex concepts. Factors such as equipment availability, faculty lecturers' expertise, and technology have influenced the effectiveness of educational laboratories. For educational institutions to improve their laboratory effectiveness, it's crucial to have well-coordinated planning in alignment with the curriculum. This study aims to develop the concept of optimizing educational laboratories at the Faculty of Education Sciences, State University of Surabaya, Indonesia. This study used descriptive qualitative research with a case study approach. Data were collected through observations, interviews, and document analysis and analyzed using qualitative descriptive analysis techniques. The research results show that the facilities and infrastructure of the laboratories at the Faculty of Education, State University of Surabaya, are adequate, with quality supervision and maintenance. The development of laboratory products, including usage guidelines, standard operating procedures (SOP), and training instrument packages, has provided practical guidance and enhanced students' learning experiences. All of these products play a crucial role in improving the efficiency, effectiveness, and quality of educational laboratory utilization. Thus, the development of educational laboratories at the Faculty of Education Sciences, State University of Surabaya, Indonesia, has positively contributed to the enhancement of higher education quality in Indonesia and has prepared students to face real-world challenges.