Improving Digital Literacy and Computer-Based Exam Simulations in Preparing TKA for Package A Students at PKBM Muara Sungai

Abstract

The implementation of the Academic Competency Test (TKA) based on national competency standards and digital literacy poses a major challenge for equivalency education institutions, particularly in the Package A program. PKBM Muara Sungai faces unique dynamics such as limited ICT infrastructure, a geographical location prone to internet signal disruptions, and adult learners' characteristics who face limited study time due to work demands. To address these issues, this community service activity aims to map the actual readiness condition of the institution, design appropriate intervention programs, and formulate operational strategies to enhance students' academic and technical readiness in facing TKA. The implementation method employed a descriptive quantitative approach integrated with SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) through Likert-scale questionnaires distributed to 20 respondents (17 Package A students and 3 tutors), field observations, and documentation studies. Data were evaluated using Internal Factor Evaluation (IFE) and External Factor Evaluation (EFE) matrices. The analysis results indicate that PKBM Muara Sungai possesses a strong internal foundation (IFE score of 2.91) driven by high tutor dedication and is highly responsive to external opportunities (EFE score of 3.11). Positioned in Quadrant I (Aggressive) with coordinate points at (1.45; 1.09), this community service program recommends an aggressive operational strategy as a form of concrete intervention. The formulated implementable steps include conducting focused computer literacy crash courses to bridge the students' ICT gap, modifying the internal curriculum by increasing numeracy practice sessions (try-outs), providing offline question banks to mitigate signal issues, and drafting MoUs with local companies to secure exam time permits for the learners