Asian Journal of Applied Education (AJAE) https://journal.formosapublisher.org/index.php/ajae <p><strong>Asian Journal of Applied Education (AJAE)</strong> is a scholarly, peer-reviewed journal published by Formosa Publisher that provides a platform for unpublished articles on contemporary educational issues. It encourages debate, both theoretical and practical, on a wide range of topics representing various interdisciplinary, cross-disciplinary, and trans-disciplinary interests. <strong>AJAE</strong> is interested in attracting submissions that exhibit innovative diverse research paradigms, methods, and approaches. The Journal seeks to arouse readers’ interest and stimulate debate on education and transformation with respect to education in its broadest sense, and to be accessible to the wide readership of the education community. <strong>AJAE</strong> publishes articles quarterly in January, April, July, and October.</p> PT FORMOSA CENDEKIA GLOBAL en-US Asian Journal of Applied Education (AJAE) 2963-5241 The Development of Problem-Based Learning-Based Student Worksheets Integrated with Riau Malay Culture on Geometry Transformation Materials https://journal.formosapublisher.org/index.php/ajae/article/view/16485 <p>This study aims to develop a Problem-Based Learning (PBL)–based Student Worksheet (LKPD) on the topic of Geometric Transformation as instructional material to facilitate ninth-grade junior high school students’ mathematical critical thinking skills. The development employed the ADDIE model, which includes the stages of needs analysis, design of content and layout, product development, implementation through small- and large-group trials, and evaluation. The research was conducted in stages involving subject-matter experts, media experts, teachers, and students. Data were collected through validation questionnaires, observations, student response questionnaires, and posttest assessments. The results indicate that the LKPD is highly valid (0.90), highly practical with percentages of 92.20% in the small-group trial and 92.32% in the large-group trial, and effective in improving learning outcomes, making it suitable for use in mathematics instruction.</p> Aisyah Arni Putri Simanjuntak Zulkifli Muhammad Nuh Copyright (c) 2026 Aisyah Arni Putri Simanjuntak, Zulkifli Muhammad Nuh https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2026-05-05 2026-05-05 5 2 391 398 10.55927/ajae.v5i2.16485 Challenges of Teachers in Instructional Practices and Job Performance https://journal.formosapublisher.org/index.php/ajae/article/view/16276 <p>This study aimed to explore the challenges of teachers in instructional practices and their job performance. The results of the study are as follows: there were three (6) major themes identified regarding the challenges encountered by teachers in performing their job-related tasks in schools, (a) recognizing the challenge, (b) experiencing challenges of instructional practice, (c) encountering the most challenging experience, (d) categorizing the nature of instructional practices challenges, (e) mitigation strategies to address challenges, and (f) recognizing the challenges. Based on the findings, it is recommended that teachers may devote more time and give ample assessment recommendations to locate the least learning competencies of the learners, basis for remediation and intervention. Furthermore, their full and strict implementation of the department’s call to concentrate and focus on the pedagogical approaches of teaching specified in the instructional design of curriculum and to continue contextualize the curriculum based on the needs and locality of the learner.</p> Edward Jimenez Raymund Cruz Sonny N. De Guzman Copyright (c) 2026 Edward Jimenez, Raymund Cruz, Sonny N. De Guzman https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2026-05-02 2026-05-02 5 2 275 290 10.55927/ajae.v5i2.16276 The Effect of Digital Competence and Psychological Well-Being on Career Choices through Self-Efficacy among MPLB Students https://journal.formosapublisher.org/index.php/ajae/article/view/16471 <p>This study analyzes the influence of digital competence and psychological well-being on career choices through self-efficacy among students in the Office Management and Business Services (MPLB) program. A quantitative explanatory approach forms the basis of this research. From a population of 148 students, the Slovin formula and proportional stratified random sampling determined a sample of 108 respondents. Data collection utilized a Likert-scale questionnaire, and analysis employed the PLS-SEM method with SmartPLS. The results indicate that digital competence and psychological well-being positively and significantly affect self-efficacy and career choice. Self-efficacy also plays a significant mediating role in these relationships, with psychological well-being emerging as the most dominant factor.</p> Almeida Rohma Safitri Triesninda Pahlevi Copyright (c) 2026 Almeida Rohma Safitri, Triesninda Pahlevi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2026-05-02 2026-05-02 5 2 359 372 10.55927/ajae.v5i2.16471 Analysis of Factors Contributing to the Lack of Social Care Attitudes Among Children Aged 5–6 Years at Tiberias Kindergarten, Tuak Daun Merah (TDM), Kupang City https://journal.formosapublisher.org/index.php/ajae/article/view/16464 <p>This study focuses on identifying the reasons behind the lack of social awareness among children aged 5 to 6 years at Tiberias Kindergarten in Tuak Daun Merah, Kupang City. A descriptive qualitative method was applied, involving semi-structured interviews with five parents and two teachers who were purposively selected and recruited through referrals. The data were analyzed using the interactive model proposed by Miles and Huberman, along with source triangulation. The findings show that low social awareness is influenced by children’s internal characteristics (such as stubbornness and emotional reactivity), family influences (including authoritarian parenting styles and physical punishment), and social environmental factors (such as aggressive interactions with peers). Although the school environment provides some positive effects, it has not yet been fully effective, highlighting the need for collaboration among all stakeholders.</p> Yohanes Argedius Siki Gokma Nafita Tampubolon Angelikus Nama Koten Copyright (c) 2026 Yohanes Argedius Siki, Gokma Nafita Tampubolon, Angelikus Nama Koten https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2026-05-02 2026-05-02 5 2 335 344 10.55927/ajae.v5i2.16464 The Controversy Surrounding Artificial Intelligence Regulation in Higher Education in Indonesia https://journal.formosapublisher.org/index.php/ajae/article/view/16392 <p>This study examines the controversy surrounding the regulation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Indonesian higher education and its implications for academic ethics and adaptive governance in the digital era. The research employs a qualitative approach through interviews, observations, and document analysis to explore the integration of AI in academic practices. The findings indicate three main issues: the increasing integration of AI and digital learning systems in teaching and learning processes, the growing number of research and innovation initiatives related to AI within universities, and the lack of clear national regulations governing AI usage in higher education. These findings highlight the need for adaptive governance frameworks and policy guidelines to ensure that AI technologies are utilized responsibly while maintaining academic integrity and supporting sustainable educational transformation.</p> Abriadi Muhara Hasmawaty Sitti Nurhidayah Ilyas Bonita Mahmud Copyright (c) 2026 Abriadi Muhara, Hasmawaty, Sitti Nurhidayah Ilyas, Bonita Mahmud https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2026-05-02 2026-05-02 5 2 219 308 10.55927/ajae.v5i2.16392 Comparative Analysis of Temperature Coefficients and Thermal Performance Degradation of 50 WP Monocrystalline and Polycrystalline Solar Panels using Artificial Radiation Simulation https://journal.formosapublisher.org/index.php/ajae/article/view/16492 <p>Solar panel performance is strongly influenced by thermal conditions during the energy conversion process, especially in high-temperature environments such as tropical regions. An increase in photovoltaic module surface temperature can reduce output voltage and directly affect power output and system efficiency. This study aims to compare the temperature coefficient and thermal degradation characteristics of 50 WP monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels through an experimental approach using artificial radiation simulation. The research method used two photovoltaic modules, namely monocrystalline and polycrystalline types, connected to a Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) charge controller system. A 1000 W halogen lamp was used as an artificial radiation source to simulate solar exposure and increase the panel surface temperature. Electrical parameters, including voltage and current, were collected in real time using Modbus RS485 communication and monitored through computer software. Panel surface temperature was measured using an RS485-based temperature sensor integrated into the data acquisition system. The analysis included calculation of output power, power variation with temperature, and determination of the temperature coefficient based on experimental data. The results showed that both panel types experienced performance reduction as temperature increased, but with different degradation characteristics. In contrast, the polycrystalline panel showed more stable thermal behavior. These findings indicate that temperature has an important role in photovoltaic system performance and should be considered when selecting solar panels for high-temperature environments. This study also demonstrates that artificial radiation simulation can be used as an alternative method for thermal characterization, although it has limitations compared to standard solar radiation conditions.</p> Asep mula Kurnia Copyright (c) 2026 Asep mula Kurnia https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2026-05-05 2026-05-05 5 2 415 426 10.55927/ajae.v5i2.16492 Transformative Pedagogy and Deep Learning Approach in Addressing 21st-Century Educational Challenges https://journal.formosapublisher.org/index.php/ajae/article/view/16311 <p>This study aims to analyze the implementation of transformative pedagogy and the deep learning approach in addressing the challenges of 21st-century education in higher education institutions in Papua, Indonesia. The study employed a qualitative descriptive approach involving lecturers and students as research informants. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, classroom observations, and academic documentation. Data analysis was conducted through data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing systematically. The findings reveal a novel contribution in learning practices, particularly the integration of critical reflection, collaborative discussion, and deep conceptual understanding that enhances student engagement and critical thinking skills. These findings contribute to the development of innovative learning strategies to improve the quality of higher education in Papua.</p> Yuni Misrahayu Nyoman Dantes I Made Tegeh Copyright (c) 2026 Yuni Misrahayu, Nyoman Dantes, I Made Tegeh https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2026-05-02 2026-05-02 5 2 253 266 10.55927/ajae.v5i2.16311 Students’ use of Internet-Based Payment Applications: An Extension of the Technology Acceptance Model Theory https://journal.formosapublisher.org/index.php/ajae/article/view/16472 <p>The main objective of this study is to identify and examine whether perceived organizational innovation (POI) moderates the relationship between perceived trust (PT), perceived risk (PR), social influence (SI), perceived ease of use (PEU), and perceived usefulness (PU) with the use of internet-based payment applications by students (IPA). The analysis is grounded in the Resource-Based Theory (RBT) as an extension of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). Data were collected using a survey method through questionnaires distributed to students who use internet-based payment systems. A total of 468 student respondents were obtained using a non-probability sampling method, specifically convenience (accidental) sampling. SPSS 25 was used to conduct descriptive statistical analysis and regression testing for all hypotheses. The results indicate that four factors—PT, SI, PEU, and PU—have a significant positive effect on the use of internet-based payment systems, while PR has a significant negative effect. Another finding shows that perceived organizational innovation (POI) significantly strengthens the relationship between all independent variables (PT, PR, SI, PEU, and PU) and the dependent variable (IPA).</p> Muchamad Syafruddin Copyright (c) 2026 Muchamad Syafruddin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2026-05-02 2026-05-02 5 2 373 390 10.55927/ajae.v5i2.16472 The Relationship of Masculine Ideology with Father Involvement in Fathers Who Have a Business at Home in Bukittinggi City https://journal.formosapublisher.org/index.php/ajae/article/view/16469 <p>The role of fathers in childcare is an important factor in cognitive, emotional, and social development, but paternal involvement is still low due to the influence of patriarchal culture and the increasing phenomenon of fatherlessness. This condition shows a gap between the potential involvement of fathers and parenting practices, including in fathers who have a home business that theoretically has higher time flexibility. This study aims to analyze the relationship between masculine ideology and father involvement in fathers who have a business at home in Bukittinggi City. The study used a quantitative approach with a correlational descriptive design, involving 97 respondents selected through purposive sampling, with data collection using questionnaires and analyzed using Pearson Product Moment correlation. The results showed a significant negative relationship between masculine ideology and father involvement (r = -0.380; p &lt; 0.001), meaning that the higher the traditional masculine ideology, the lower the father's involvement in parenting. In conclusion, masculine ideology plays an important role in determining the quality of father's involvement, so a change in the perspective of masculinity that is more flexible is needed to improve the quality of childcare.</p> Viola Alya Zahra. S Zulian Fikry Yuninda Tria Ningsih Maya Yasmin Copyright (c) 2026 Viola Alya Zahra. S, Zulian Fikry, Yuninda Tria Ningsih, Maya Yasmin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2026-05-02 2026-05-02 5 2 345 358 10.55927/ajae.v5i2.16469 Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) Concentration and Shade use at Different Levels on Dominant Weed and Green Lettuce (Lactuca Sativa L.) Yield https://journal.formosapublisher.org/index.php/ajae/article/view/16419 <p>Horticultural crop cultivation has great potential in Indonesia due to its tropical climate, but there are many obstacles in the process of cultivating horticultural crops. Obstacles in the cultivation of horticultural crops are the emergence of weeds on the land, the absorption of nutrients that are less than optimal, and also the intensity of sunlight, and temperature. This research was conducted on green lettuce (Lactuca sativa L) cultivation land in Kediri Regency, East Java. The research design carried out was Divided Plots Design (RPT) with 2 independent variables, namely the percentage of shading and PGPR concentration. The observation variable is the type of dominant weed and the yield of green lettuce plants, the observation data were then analysed using ANOVA with BNJ 5%. Based on the results of data analysis that has been done, it is known that the weeds that dominate green lettuce cultivation land in 0% and 25% shade treatment are broadleaf weeds, namely purslane and Euphorbia, while the dominant weed in 50% shade treatment is teki. The teki weed that dominates in the 50% shade treatment causes the yield of green lettuce plants, namely the fresh weight of consumption, to be lower than the 25% shade treatment. The second observation variable is the yield of green lettuce plants, in this case the fresh weight of consumption. The largest fresh weight of consumption is in the 25% shade treatment. This is because the 25% shade treatment has an optimal microclimate (temperature, sunlight intensity, and humidity) for green lettuce growth. In addition, the weeds found in the 25% shade treatment were more dominant from the broadleaf weed family which did not have as much allelopathy as the teki tuber..</p> Santi Kusuma Fajarwati Fenna Debora Dewi Ratih Rizki Damaiyanti Frelyta Ainuz Zahro Copyright (c) 2026 Santi Kusuma Fajarwati, Fenna Debora, Dewi Ratih Rizki Damaiyanti, Frelyta Ainuz Zahro https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2026-05-02 2026-05-02 5 2 309 316 10.55927/ajae.v5i2.16419 The Relationship Between Students' Perception of the Implementation of the Independent Curriculum and their Interest in Learning at Madrasah Aliyah East Jakarta https://journal.formosapublisher.org/index.php/ajae/article/view/16505 <p>This study aims to analyze the relationship between students’ perceptions of the implementation of the independent Curriculum and their learning interest at Madrasah Aliyah Jakarta Timur. This research employs a quantitative method with a correlational approach. Data were obtained from 108 students using a questionnaire that had been tested for validity and reliability. The results showed that students' perceptions of the Independent Curriculum had an average score of 120.51, with the highest score of 164 and the lowest score of 69, while students' learning interest had an average score of 72.78, with the highest score of 100 and the lowest score of 42. Spearman correlation analysis indicated a significant positive relationship between the two variables (r = 0.757, p &lt; 0.01). Simple regression analiysis showed that students’ perceptions of the Independent Curriculum contributed 64% to learning interest, while 36% was influenced by other factors. The conclusion of this study is that the more positive students’ perceptions of the Independent Curriculum, the higher their learning interest.</p> Talina Muqtashidah Ahmad Sofyan Copyright (c) 2026 Talina Muqtashidah, Ahmad Sofyan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2026-05-05 2026-05-05 5 2 415 426 10.55927/ajae.v5i2.16505 The Effect of Ice Breaking and Rewards on Chemistry Students' Learning Outcomes in Basic Chemistry Courses https://journal.formosapublisher.org/index.php/ajae/article/view/16346 <p>Chemistry learning in higher education often encounters low student participation and boredom, affecting learning outcomes. This study examines the effect of ice breaking and rewards on student achievement in Basic Chemistry courses. A quantitative quasi-experimental design was applied, with purposive sampling to form experimental and control groups. The intervention, consisting of ice breaking and rewards as motivational reinforcement, was conducted over eight meetings. Data were collected using valid and reliable written tests and analyzed inferentially. Results indicate that the experimental group achieved a higher mean score (79.74) than the control group (73.03), with a significant difference t(33)= 4.854; p &lt; 0.001 and a large effect size (1.41), confirming the effectiveness of the strategy.</p> Zuhrah Adminira Ruslan Copyright (c) 2026 Zuhrah Adminira Ruslan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2026-05-02 2026-05-02 5 2 267 274 10.55927/ajae.v5i2.16346