Innovation in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineering Teaching Materials at Makassar Aviation Polytechnic

Abstract

The objective of the research to develop and standardize teaching materials for refrigeration and air conditioning engineering courses to enhance the quality of learning and competency development among cadets. In vocational education—particularly within the aviation sector—standardized and industry-relevant instructional content is essential to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for success. The growing complexity of aviation technologies further emphasizes the need for immediate improvements in educational resources. Using a qualitative research approach, data were collected through observation and questionnaires to conduct a comprehensive needs analysis. Cadet feedback highlighted gaps in the adequacy, accessibility, and effectiveness of current teaching materials. In response, the research followed key stages: identifying cadet learning needs, developing targeted instructional modules, and testing the materials to ensure alignment with educational and industry standards. The evaluation results indicated that the developed teaching modules are highly feasible for classroom use. The material content received an average score of 3.73, reflecting strong alignment with curriculum objectives. The instructional media scored 3.60, indicating effective visual and design elements, while user evaluations averaged 3.55, confirming practical usability and clarity. This study contributes significantly to vocational education in refrigeration and air conditioning engineering by providing high-quality, standardized teaching materials. These resources support cadets in developing the competencies needed to meet the evolving demands of the aviation industry. The outcomes offer valuable insights for educators, curriculum designers, and policymakers working to improve technical training programs in similarly specialized fields