Identification of Extracurricular Suitability with Students' Interests and Talents Through the Profile Matching Method at SMPN 5 Lubuk Pakam

Abstract

Kegiatan ekstrakurikuler memiliki peranan krusial dalam mengoptimalkan potensi, minat, dan Extracurricular activities play a crucial role in optimising students' potential, interests, and talents outside of curricular activities. However, at SMPN 5 Lubuk Pakam, the selection of extracurricular activities is still based on temporary desires, peer pressure, or guidance without in-depth analysis. As a result, many students engage in activities that do not align with their talents, leading to suboptimal participation and achievement. This study aims to design and develop a decision support system that can identify the suitability of extracurricular activities with students' interests and talents through the Profile Matching method. The calculation process is carried out through steps of mapping the gap values between the student profile and the ideal profile for each extracurricular activity, determining the weight of the gap values, calculating the core and secondary factor values, setting the total value, and ranking. Research findings indicate that the Profile Matching method can provide the most appropriate extracurricular recommendations for each student in an objective and measurable manner. The developed system supports educational institutions in placing students in extracurricular activities more accurately, quickly, and efficiently, allowing for the optimal development of students' interests and talents.