Implementation of Electrical Engineering Curriculum in the Era of Industry 4.0 in Indonesia: Stakeholder Participants Qualitative Interviews

Abstract

The rapid development of science and technology has led to fundamental changes in terms of qualifications, competencies, and requirements to enter the industrial world. This has led to the adjustment of the effectiveness of collaboration between industry and higher engineering education, thus necessitating further consideration of engineering higher education curricula that are oriented towards the industrial revolution. The aim of this study is to examine how the electrical engineering curriculum can be adjusted and improved to be more relevant to the technological advancements and industrial demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution era in Indonesia. This qualitative descriptive study utilizes the Focus Group Discussion (FGD) method and semi-structured online interviews. Stakeholder participants including the heads of Electrical Engineering programs in the top twenty universities in Indonesia have been involved in this study. We explore perspectives on the implementation of the electrical engineering curriculum, its rationale, objectives, methods, and challenges in its execution. Herewith, curriculum revisions are deemed necessary while still adhering to the fundamental principles based on accreditation institution guidelines. The findings highlight that incorporating the latest technologies with a focus on practical skills relevant to the development of Industry 4.0 is essential. The latest technology supporting practical skills for electrical engineering students needs to be improved. Active involvement from all parties in the curriculum implementation is the key to producing competent graduates prepared to face global challenges in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.