Improving Teacher Competence in Plant Identification and Preservation through Training on Google Lens and Herbarium Techniques for Elementary School Teachers

Abstract

Background: Plant diversity material is one of the biology materials studied with the aim that students are able to identify, distinguish, and communicate the characteristics of the plant world division. However, students are often faced with challenges in recognizing and distinguishing different types of plants due to the complexity and variation of plant morphological characteristics so that the material is found difficult by most students in school. The solution to this problem is the use of learning media such as Google Lens and plant preservation.

Purpose of the Study: This activity aims to increase teachers' knowledge and ability to use plant identification applications (Google Lens) and plant preservation for learning plant diversity.

Methods: The method of the activity includes pre-tests, material enrichment, mentoring, post-test, and evaluation. This community service activity was attended by 46 MIS teachers in Sleman Regency.

Results: Pre-test results showed 84.78% of participants in the Less criteria, which decreased to 50% in the post-test. As many as 10.87% - 50% of participants obtained a post score that was in the criteria of Sufficient (C) to Good (B). As many as 97.83% of participants were able to use the application well and 52% were in the Good (B) criteria for the preparation of LKPD. The results of the questionnaire showed that 63.64% of teachers strongly agreed that this community service activity can increase knowledge and competence in the effective and efficient use of learning media and 72.73% were motivated to develop LKPD (Student Worksheets) that can improve students' abilities in learning.