Bridging Awareness and Adoption: Empowering Bantul Educators to Integrate AI Learning Platforms in Classroom Practice

Abstract

This study describes a community engagement initiative aimed at empowering teachers at SMP Negeri 3 Imogiri Bantul to integrate AI-powered learning media into classroom instruction. The program addressed challenges of limited confidence and minimal prior experience with platforms such as Eduaide and Magic School. Using a four-stage participatory approach, preparation, training, implementation, and evaluation, educators were guided through defining learning objectives, developing digital materials, and reflecting on their progress. Pre-test assessments showed that 87.5% of teachers had never used AI tools, and only 12.5% felt very confident in creating digital resources. Following the intervention, all participants successfully produced AI-assisted learning materials, and 37.5% reported feeling very confident. Teachers demonstrated high engagement and expressed enthusiasm for exploring additional tools like Gimkit, underscoring the importance of flexible, responsive facilitation. The findings highlight that structured, hands-on training combined with collaborative mentoring can effectively bridge the gap between awareness and adoption of innovative technologies. This approach not only increased practical skills but also fostered a sense of ownership and readiness to sustain change. The outcomes offer valuable insights for scaling similar programs to advance inclusive, high-quality education aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 4.