Digital Transformation in Ranca Bali: AI and Informatics for 21st Century Teachers
Indragiri Village in Ranca Bali District became a witness to Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia’s concrete steps in delivering education that is relevant to the challenges of the times. Through collaboration between the Computer Science Education Study Program, the Computer Science Study Program of FPMIPA UPI, and BEM KEMAKOM, a workshop for elementary and junior high school teachers was held on August 15, 2025. This activity was not merely about sharing materials but also about opening new insights on how artificial intelligence (AI) and informatics can serve as essential tools for teachers in educating the twenty first century generation.
From the beginning, the workshop was designed to be interactive. Enjun Junaeti, M.Si. engaged participants in activities involving symbols, shapes, and even assembling mini parcels as simple ways to understand logical and creative thinking. Herbert, M.T. used a different approach by asking a light question about how to water a mango tree which led to a critical discussion on reflective thinking. From this, teachers were guided to realize that informatics and AI are not just tools but ways of thinking that foster creativity and the courage to experiment.
The presence of technologies such as Generative AI from ChatGPT to TeachableMachine was also demonstrated directly. Teachers learned that these technologies can help them design more adaptive, contextual, and engaging learning strategies for students. At the same time, students will become accustomed to tasks that challenge critical thinking rather than simply memorizing definitions. In this context, AI is positioned as a partner for teachers to enrich the learning process, not to replace it.
More than just a training session, this activity instilled new confidence in teachers at Indragiri. They returned with practical skills as well as the belief that digital transformation is not something to be feared but an opportunity to create learning that is more relevant and meaningful. This initiative stands as a real contribution of FPMIPA UPI in supporting the goals of sustainable development which are quality, innovative, and collaborative education for a more competitive future of the nation.