IMPROVING STUDENTS' FUTURE CAREER PLANNING MATURITY THROUGH GROUP GUIDANCE SERVICES USING PROBLEM SOLVING TECHNIQUES AT STATE SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 10 PALEMBAN

Abstract

This study aims to enhance the maturity of students' career choices through group guidance services incorporating problem-solving techniques at SMA Negeri 10 Palembang. The background of this study is based on the low understanding of students in determining career choices that are in accordance with their potential and interests, which has an impact on confusion in making decisions after graduation. This study is a Classroom Action Research (PTK-BK) project, carried out in three cycles, each comprising the planning, implementation, observation, evaluation, and reflection stages. Problem-solving techniques are applied in the implementation of group guidance to help students explore themselves, understand the world of work, and build self-confidence and responsibility in making career decisions. The results of the study showed a significant increase in five aspects of career choice maturity, namely confidence in career choices, the ability to find and choose relevant activities, seriousness in carrying out these activities, responsibility for career decisions, and consistency of career interests. The percentage of researcher activities and student participation also increased from the sufficient category to very good in cycle III. Thus, group guidance services with problem solving techniques have proven effective in improving the maturity of students' career choices.

Keywords: Career Selection Maturity, Group Guidance, Problem Solving, High School Students