Yogyakarta, July 2024 — In its continued commitment to advancing the quality of higher education, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has once again launched the Basic Instructional Techniques Training Program (PEKERTI) 2024, one of the flagship initiatives of the Professional Development Program (PDP) under the Directorate of Human Resources (DSDM). Organized in collaboration with the Directorate of Academic Innovation and Studies (DKIA), this program is strategically designed to enhance the professional competencies of lecturers, particularly in pedagogy.
PEKERTI focuses on equipping educators with essential instructional skills, including effective teaching design, classroom management, evaluation strategies, and the integration of relevant educational technologies. The ultimate goal is to empower lecturers to create impactful and engaging learning experiences for students, fostering a culture of excellence in education.
A Hybrid Learning Approach for Maximum Flexibility
The PEKERTI Training 2024 adopts a hybrid learning format to accommodate the dynamic needs of participants. The program unfolds in three phases:
- Asynchronous Sessions through UGM’s MOOC e-learning platform, held from July 17–18, 2024, providing participants with foundational knowledge at their own pace.
- Synchronous Sessions via Zoom from July 19–25, 2024, focusing on interactive discussions and real-time feedback.
- On-Site Microteaching Practice on July 26, 2024, allowing participants to apply their newfound skills in a hands-on teaching environment.
This comprehensive structure ensures that lecturers gain both theoretical insights and practical experience, enabling them to address the evolving challenges of the education sector.
Building a Network of 77 Academic Professionals
The 2024 PEKERTI program attracted 77 participants, comprising 68 lecturers from UGM and 9 external participants representing various academic institutions across Indonesia. This diverse group underscores the program’s broad appeal and relevance in fostering pedagogical excellence nationwide.
For UGM participants, the training aligns with the university’s mission to continually improve teaching quality. Meanwhile, external participants are expected to apply the knowledge gained to enhance their own institutions and contribute to strengthening collaborations among Indonesian higher education institutions.
Empowering Lecturers for Career and Professional Growth
The training program also emphasizes career development opportunities for lecturers. By refining their teaching methodologies and gaining proficiency in modern pedagogical tools, participants enhance their qualifications for academic promotions and professional growth. The program also serves as a platform for expanding professional networks, facilitating knowledge exchange, and fostering partnerships among academics.
Remarks from Program Leaders
In the opening session, a representative from DSDM emphasized the critical role of effective teaching in achieving educational excellence. “PEKERTI is not merely a training program; it is an investment in the future of education. By empowering lecturers with advanced instructional skills, we ensure that they can inspire and lead students in navigating an increasingly complex world,” they remarked.
The training’s final session, a microteaching exercise, allowed participants to demonstrate their understanding by presenting mock lessons. These sessions were evaluated by experienced faculty members, providing constructive feedback to refine teaching approaches further.
A Commitment to Excellence in Education
As UGM continues to lead educational innovation in Indonesia, programs like PEKERTI exemplify its dedication to nurturing world-class educators. By bridging theory and practice, fostering collaboration, and embracing modern teaching techniques, UGM equips its lecturers—and those from partner institutions—with the tools needed to thrive in a rapidly changing academic landscape.
PEKERTI 2024 concludes with high expectations for its participants to apply their skills effectively, not only in their classrooms but also as contributors to the broader academic community. This program is another testament to UGM’s vision of advancing knowledge and fostering innovation for the betterment of society. (DSDM/Rista)
