AI-ASSISTED PROJECT-BASED LEARNING: DEVELOPING DIGITAL ENTREPRENEURIAL MINDSET AMONG VOCATIONAL STUDENTS IN SMK NEGERI 1 PANTAI CERMIN Ronald Hervin Haloho
Universitas Negeri Medan
Abstract
The transformation of entrepreneurship education in vocational schools is increasingly urgent as many graduates of vocational high schools (SMK) remain oriented toward job seeking rather than job creation, while the demands of the digital economy require students to develop entrepreneurial adaptability and innovation. This study aims to explore how AI-assisted Project-Based Learning (PjBL) transforms entrepreneurship education in developing students^ digital entrepreneurial mindset at SMK Negeri 1 Pantai Cermin. Using a qualitative case study design, data were collected through in-depth interviews, classroom observations, focus group discussions, and document analysis involving the principal, vice principal of curriculum, entrepreneurship teachers, productive subject teachers, students, and alumni entrepreneurs. Data were analyzed by Nvivo. The findings reveal that AI-assisted PjBL strengthens entrepreneurial learning management by promoting authentic business projects, improving students^ opportunity recognition, creativity, digital marketing skills, and entrepreneurial self-efficacy. School leadership support, teacher innovation, and digital infrastructure were identified as key success factors, while limited AI literacy and resource constraints remained major challenges. The study concludes that AI-assisted PjBL serves as a strategic model for transforming entrepreneurship education toward sustainable digital entrepreneurship development in vocational education.
