Improving Students’ Machining Competence by Applying Peer Tutoring Methods

The aims of this study were analyzing the improvement of student competence in attitudes, knowledge, and skills by applying peer tutoring in machining practice learning. The research method uses classroom action research with cycle stages: planning, action, observation, and reflection. The action research cycle was carried out three times, preceded by a pre-cycle. The action taken is the application of peer tutoring with the following steps: (1) Selecting a tutor, (2) Forming groups, (3) Discussing practical assignments, (4) Tutors guiding other friends to work on assignments, and (5) Observing and monitoring learning activities for each student. The subjects of this study were 32 students who took the lathe machining technique at SMKN 2 Depok Sleman Yogyakarta. The implementation of research was carried out in a machining engineering workshop. As a learning tool, there are eight manual lathes and additional tools for operating the lathe. Methods of collecting data were observation, knowledge test, skill test, and documentation. Analysis of the data used is descriptive statistical analysis. The study results: The application of peer tutoring can improve student competence. Improvements in attitudes, knowledge, and skills competencies occur gradually during the implementation of peer tutoring. Achievement of the minimum competency criteria can be achieved in practicum learning and improving students’ skills in operating machine tools.