STRENGTHENING DIGITAL COMPETENCIES THROUGH INTERNET OF THINGS (IOT) AND PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC CONTROL (PLC) CERTIFICATION FOR ELECTRONICS STUDENTS

Abstract

Increasing digital competence among students is essentialin facing the challenges of Industry 4.0, especially with the development of the Internet of Things (IoT) and Programmable Logic Control (PLC) technology. This activity discusses the IoT and PLC certification program, which aims to strengthen students' electronics skills. This program uses learning methods that include theory, hands-on practice, independent projects, and competent mentor assistance. Students also take certification exams and develop IoT and PLC technology-based projects that are relevant to the real world.The program implementation results showed that most students experienced significant improvements in technical knowledge and skills, with a high certification pass rate (100%). In addition, student-generated independent projects demonstrated the ability to apply technology to solvepractical problems, such as IoT-based automatic irrigation systems and factory automation control using PLCs. In conclusion, this certification program successfully prepares students to face the world of work with relevant skills in line with the needs of today's digital industry. Further development of this program, including improvement of training materials andexpansion of cooperation with industry, can further strengthen students' competencies in facing future technological challenges