Utilization of Science Laboratories in Junior High Schools in Bulakamba District Brebes Regency

Abstract

The presence of a Science Laboratory is highly important to support the implementation of education in order to achieve educational objectives. The research aims to determine the utilization of Science Laboratories in junior high schools (SMP/MTs) in Bulakamba Sub-District, Brebes Regency. The research employs a qualitative approach with a phenomenological research design, combining descriptive exploratory methods and steps. The samples in this research consist of 1 Public Junior High School, 1 Independent  Junior High School, and 1 Islamic Junior High School (MTs) in Bulakamba Sub-District, Brebes Regency. The research findings regarding the utilization of Science Laboratories reveal several aspects; (1) Availability of Science Laboratory equipment in SMP/MTs in Bulakamba Sub-District, Brebes Regency, falls under the complete category with a score of 69.33%, (2) The design of Science Laboratories in SMP/MTs  in Bulakamba Sub-District, Brebes Regency, falls under the highly complete category with a score of 96.67%, (3) Administration of Science Laboratories in SMP/MTs in Bulakamba Sub-District, Brebes Regency, scores 79.27%, categorized as good, (4) Management of practicum implementation in SMP/MTs in Bulakamba Sub-District, Brebes Regency, falls under the highly proficient category with a score of 89.08%. The utilization of Science Laboratories in SMP/MTs in Bulakamba Sub-District, Brebes Regency, is already good; however, some obstacles are also identified in the utilization of Science Laboratories. These include the absence of laboratory assistants, inadequate facilities, and the integration of practical sessions with theory classes.