CABARAN DAN KEBERKESANAN PENGGUNAAN SIMULATOR CISCO PACKET TRACER DALAM PEMBELAJARAN SAMBUNGAN VPN (VIRTUAL PRIVATE NETWORK)

Abstract

The simulation method is the use of computer applications that contain processes or models similar to real physical ones for learning purposes or other uses. The effectiveness of learning using simulation techniques does not only depend on the development of the simulation design, but must also understand how the simulation can be implemented. The study conducted is descriptive in order to identify the challenges and effectiveness of using the Cisco Packet Tracer simulator in learning VPN (Virtual Private Network) connections. The sample for this study consisted of 30 students who took a network security course at Kuala Terengganu Polytechnic. The instrument for this study consists of 2 sets of questions. The first set is a questionnaire used to identify the challenges of using the Cisco Packet Tracer simulator and the second is a practical test question to evaluate the effectiveness of using the Cisco Packet Tracer simulator. An experimental group that went through learning using Cisco Packet Tracer and a control group that went through conventional learning was formed to evaluate the effectiveness of using the Cisco Packet Tracer simulator. Data analysis was done using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 27.0. The findings of the study show that there are three main challenges faced by students in the use of Cisco Packet Tracer. First, from a concentration point of view because written instructions need to be remembered and understood. Second, the use of Cisco Packet Tracer requires high skills in simulating a complex network and third, if there is a mistake in designing the network, it will cause errors that are difficult to find and this will have an impact on student learning. The results of the study also found that there was an increase in the academic achievement of students after they followed the learning method using the Cisco Packet Tracer simulator. Continuous improvement needs to be implemented in order to help students overcome the challenges faced when using Cisco Packet Tracer and its use in learning is expected to produce competent students in the field of networking.