Vocational Education Innovation: RPG Game-Based Learning Media

Vocational education continues to transform in line with digital technology developments. One of the latest breakthroughs comes from SMK Bina Mandiri Tangerang, where teachers have begun adopting role-playing game (RPG) technology as a learning medium in the classroom. This initiative aims to create a more interactive and relevant learning atmosphere for Generation Z.

During July 2026, a group of teachers at the school took part in intensive training under a Community Service Programme (PKM) titled ‘RPG Game-Based Learning Technology Training to Improve Teaching Quality for Teachers of SMK Bina Mandiri Tangerang’. The programme was organised by a team of lecturers and students from the Bina Sarana Global Institute of Technology and Business (ITB).

This activity was not merely ordinary training, but part of a Community Service Grant scheme funded by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Kemdiktisaintek) for the 2026 fiscal year. The funding is focused on addressing real challenges in the field, namely the lack of learning media capable of stimulating student interest amid the onslaught of digital distractions.

Through the RPG approach, subject matter that is usually considered difficult or boring is packaged into storylines, quests, and challenges that students must complete. This allows students to learn actively while playing roles in specific scenarios relevant to their vocational competencies at the school.

Once the learning game application has been completed by the teachers, the next stage is direct testing with students of SMK Bina Mandiri Tangerang. This trial is crucial for measuring the effectiveness and level of student acceptance of the new medium.

High enthusiasm was shown by the training participants. The teachers admitted to gaining a new perspective that game technology does not always have a negative impact, but can actually be a powerful pedagogical tool if designed properly.

With this training, it is hoped that teachers of SMK Bina Mandiri Tangerang will not only provide theory, but will be able to create an interactive, innovative, and enjoyable learning ecosystem. This transformation is expected to improve the quality of vocational graduates so that they are better prepared to face industry challenges with a creative mindset and adaptability to technology.