JRIP: Jurnal Riset dan Inovasi Pembelajaran ISSN 2776-8872 Enhancing Vocational StudentsAo Creativity via Virtual Project Based Automotive Paint Mixing in Teacher Professional Education Program (PPG) Partner School Dani Irawan1*. Citra Kurniawan2. Syarif Suhartadi3. Erwin Komara Mindarta4 1*,4 Automotive Education Study Program. Faculty of Engineering. Universitas Negeri Malang Educational Technolog Study Program. Faculty of Education. Universitas Negeri Malang Teacher Professional Education Study Program. Graduate School. Universitas Negeri Malang Article Info Article history: Received Sep 25, 2025 Accepted Oct 01, 2025 Published Online Nov 05, 2025 Keywords: Virtual Project-Based Learning Student Creativity UM PPG Partner Schools Car Paint Mixing Vocational Learning ABSTRACT Vocational education in Indonesia faces significant challenges in providing practical learning that is safe, contextual, and aligned with the demands of Industry 4. In automotive bodywork painting, vocational students often face constraints such as limited practice facilities, exposure to hazardous chemicals, and restricted opportunities for creative exploration. This study addresses those challenges by developing and implementing a Virtual Project-Based Learning (VPjBL) model at SMK PGRI 3 Malang, a partner school of the Teacher Professional Education (PPG) Program at Universitas Negeri Malang. Using a Design and Development Research (DDR) approach, the study involved three main stages: . development of a VPjBL model using the V-MIX AutoPaint simulation software, . validation by vocational education experts and industry practitioners, and . limited implementation at the partner school. A total of 36 students from the Automotive Body Engineering program participated. Data were collected using creativity pretests and posttests, observations, and Quantitative data were analyzed using N-Gain scores, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. Results showed moderate improvement in all creativity dimensions. Aiwith an average N-Gain score of 0. The VPjBL model enabled digital-based creative exploration, improved studentsAo digital literacy, and fostered collaborative skills. Theoretically, these findings provide empirical evidence that integrating VR-supported and project-based learning approaches can enhance creativity, digital competence, and engagement in vocational education. Practically, the VPjBL model offers an innovative framework for schools and teachers to implement safe, interactive, and future-oriented automotive learning aligned with Industry 4. 0 and electric vehicle technology development. This is an open access under the CC-BY-SA licence Corresponding Author: Dani Irawan. Automotif Education Study Program. Faculty of Engineering Universitas Negeri Malang. Malang. Indonesia Jl. Semarang No. 5 Kota Malang. Indonesia Email: dani. ft@um. How to cite: Irawan. Kurniawan. Suhartadi. , & Mindarta. Enhancing Vocational StudentsAo Creativity via Virtual Project Based Automotive Paint Mixing in Teacher Professional Education Program (PPG) Partner School. Jurnal Riset Dan Inovasi Pembelajaran, 5. , 1094Ae1105. https://doi. org/10. 51574/jrip. Vol. 5 No 3. Tahun 2025, hal. 1094 Ae 1105 JRIP: Jurnal Riset dan Inovasi Pembelajaran ISSN 2776-8872 Enhancing Vocational StudentsAo Creativity via Virtual ProjectBased Automotive Paint Mixing in Teacher Professional Education Program (PPG) Partner School Introduction The increasingly rapid development of automotive technology demands vocational learning that is adaptive, contextual, and integrated with industry needs (Inthachot et al. , 2. One of the essential competencies in the automotive body field is vehicle painting, which requires high creativity, technical precision, and the ability to explore colors and designs that meet industry aesthetic standards (Dias-Oliveira et al. , 2. However, despite the rapid advancement of automotive and digital technologies, vocational learning in this field remains largely conventional and lacks meaningful digital integration. The painting learning process in vocational high schools still relies heavily on direct demonstrations in workshops. Such traditional approaches, combined with limited access to practice facilities, time constraints, and the risk of exposure to hazardous chemicals, restrict studentsAo opportunities for creative exploration and innovation (Alorda et al. , 2011. Suryady & Zhafran, 2. In response to these challenges, the Virtual Project-Based Learning (VPjBL) approach has emerged as an innovative solution aligned with digital transformation and 21st-century education (Tominaga et al. , 2. VPjBL allows project-based practical learning to be conducted virtually through interactive simulation media, enabling learners to engage in problem-solving and creative experimentation in safe, controlled environments. While previous studies have widely applied VPjBL in general STEM and engineering education to enhance creativity and collaboration, its implementation in vocational contexts such as automotive body painting particularly in virtual color mixing simulations remains underexplored. Therefore, this study extends the application of VPjBL to address creativity development in automotive bodywork learning by enabling students to digitally explore color combinations, test paint compositions, and visualize painting results under varying lighting conditions and work environments (Akafuah et al. , 2016. Poschauko et al. , 2024. Qi et al. , 2. The VPjBL model not only facilitates real-world problem-based learning, but also encourages student collaboration in projects that resemble industrial challenges. With the support of design software such as CAD and visual rendering, students can design vehicle body designs, determine color characters, and conduct virtual tests before real painting is carried out. This approach has been proven to increase students' creativity, confidence, and active involvement in practical learning (Nugroho, 2022. Wang et al. , 2. In vocational education, creativity is a key indicator of graduatesAo work readiness. Contextual and hands-on learning environments stimulate studentsAo creative potential more effectively (Ates & Aktamis, 2. The VPjBL model enhances this process by integrating technology-based experimentation that is safe, flexible, and cost-effective. Through digital simulations, students can repeatedly explore color combinations and design variations without the limitations of physical materials or environmental risks (Wu et al. , 2. The incorporation of tools such as CAD design, 3D animation, and augmented reality devices further develops studentsAo digital literacy and aligns learning with Industry 4. 0 standards (Mukogawa et al. Sun et al. , 2. In schools with limited workshop facilities. VPjBL serves as a realistic alternative that fosters creativity, builds digital competence, and encourages collaboration with industry partners through authentic projects and performance-based assessments (Basilotta Gymez-Pablos et al. , 2017. Musa et al. , 2. Overall, this model empowers students to design, collaborate, and take responsibility for their digital projects, effectively bridging the gap between virtual learning and real-world production. Vol. 5 No 3. Tahun 2025, hal. 1094 Ae 1105 JRIP: Jurnal Riset dan Inovasi Pembelajaran ISSN 2776-8872 Based on the aforementioned gaps, this study is urgently needed to introduce learning innovations that are adaptive to technological developments and aligned with the needs of the modern transportation industry. Vehicle body painting requires a high level of creativity, yet traditional instruction remains limited to manual, workshop-based practices that are often risky, costly, and inefficient. By developing the Virtual Project-Based Learning (VPjBL) model, students in skills-based education programs can digitally explore paint color combinations in a safe, flexible, and collaborative manner. This innovation not only enhances learnersAo creativity and digital literacy but also addresses the limitations of existing facilities at PPG UM partner schools while strengthening the relevance of learning to industry practices. Therefore, this study aims to design and implement a Virtual Project-Based Car Paint Mixing model to foster creative competence, improve learning effectiveness, and bridge the gap between classroom instruction and real-world industrial demands. Method This study employs the Design and Development Research (DDR) approach as proposed by Richey and Klein . , which emphasizes the systematic process of designing and evaluating educational products. This approach was chosen to systematically design, validate, and evaluate the effectiveness of the developed Virtual Project-Based Learning (VPjBL) model for digital car paint mixing, ensuring that the model is pedagogically sound, technologically feasible, and relevant to vocational education needs. Figure 1. Methods and Design Stages of the Design and Development Research (DDR) Process To ensure systematic development and validation of the Virtual Project-Based Learning (VPjBL) model for car paint mixing, this study follows the stages of Design and Development Research (DDR) as adapted from Richey and Klein . The process is structured into four stages, as summarized below. Table 1. Stages of Design and Development of the Virtual Project-Based Learning (VPjBL) Model for Car Paint Mixing Based on Design and Development Research (DDR) by Richey and Klein . Stage Purpose Activities Results Stage 1: and Conduct observations. Comprehensive Problem real interviews, and understanding Analysis challenges in car document reviews to learning problems and paint mixing learning explore the limitations clear formulation of through collaboration of conventional development needs. between researchers practices, facilities, and and practitioners. creativity levels. Stage 2: To design an initial Develop prototype Draft version of the Solution VPjBL model based learning models and VPjBL model and Development on educational design digital simulation media digital paint mixing and using references from simulation ready for theories, validation. previous research, and Vol. 5 No 3. Tahun 2025, hal. 1094 Ae 1105 JRIP: Jurnal Riset dan Inovasi Pembelajaran Stage ISSN 2776-8872 Purpose To evaluate and refine the model through real learning settings. Activities Results industrial standards. Stage 3: Conduct limited trials. Improved Iterative collect feedback from contextually Testing and teachers and students. VPjBL model suitable Refinement and revise the model for vocational school based on evaluation implementation. Stage 4: To synthesize Conduct Formulated Reflection and findings and derive reflective analysis of design principles and Design new design principles the entire development enhanced strategies for Principal future process, document integrating VPjBL into Formulation results, and disseminate vocational learning. publications or training. Subject: Vocational high school students in the Body Engineering and Autonomous Painting expertise program at the PPG partner school of Malang State University, namely SMK PGRI 3 Malang, totaling 36 students. This site was selected because it offers a Body Engineering and Autonomous Painting specialization with limited access to safe painting facilities, making it a representative setting for implementing technology-based learning The data collection techniques and instruments in this study were arranged based on the stages of developing a Virtual Project-Based Learning (VPjBL) learning model with a Design and Development Research (DDR) approach. At the model development stage. At the model development stage (Stage 1-. , data were collected through document reviews of the automotive body curriculum and existing learning tools to analyze planned instructional Furthermore, interviews and classroom observations involving lecturers and students were conducted to explore actual learning implementation. The graduate competency profile was also examined through literature studies, interviews with industry practitioners (Dunia Usaha dan Dunia Industri-DUDI), and questionnaire distribution. Instruments used at this stage included document review sheets, interview guides, and graduate competency profile At the validation stage (Stage . , two types of validation were performed. Internal validation was conducted by experts in vocational learning, fluid mechanics, and aerodynamics using expert judgment instruments to assess the content validity and conceptual soundness of the VPjBL model. Meanwhile, external validation involved program heads, implementing lecturers, and industry practitioners through Focus Group Discussion (FGD) sessions using user validation instruments to ensure practical relevance and applicability. Finally, at the implementation and evaluation stage (Stage . , the validated model was applied in a limited classroom setting involving teachers, lecturers, and industry practitioners. They assessed the modelAos effectiveness and usability through questionnaires and user assessment instruments. The data obtained from these evaluations informed the refinement of the VPjBL model and the formulation of design principles for its broader application in vocational education. Data analysis in this study employed both qualitative and quantitative approaches to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the developed model. Qualitative analysis was used to interpret input from experts, results from Focus Group Discussions (FGD. , and findings from classroom observations. The qualitative data were thematically analyzed through coding and categorization to identify recurring patterns and themes. To ensure credibility, data triangulation was applied by comparing information obtained from interviews, observations, and document reviews. In addition, peer checking was conducted by involving fellow Vol. 5 No 3. Tahun 2025, hal. 1094 Ae 1105 JRIP: Jurnal Riset dan Inovasi Pembelajaran ISSN 2776-8872 researchers to review data interpretation and maintain consistency across analytical procedures. Quantitative analysis was carried out to assess the improvement in studentsAo creativity before and after the implementation of the Virtual Project-Based Learning (VPjBL) model using the N-Gain Score test. The increase category was classified into three levels: high (Ngain Ou 0. , moderate . 30 O N-gain < 0. , and low (N-gain < 0. The N-Gain Score was calculated using the following formula: Where XCA represents the pretest score. XCC the posttest score, and 100 the maximum attainable score. This combination of qualitative and quantitative analyses allowed for a holistic understanding of both the process and the impact of the developed VPjBL model. Virtual Project-Based Learning (VPjBL) Syntax The learning syntax in this study was adapted from the Project-Based Learning (PjBL) model proposed by Jalinus et al. and implemented within a virtual learning environment. The adapted VPjBL syntax consists of six interconnected phases: Driving Question: The learning process begins with a guiding question Ai 'Why are color quality and paint finish important in the automotive industry?' Ai to stimulate studentsAo curiosity and contextual understanding. Project Planning: Students design color concepts and develop virtual body-painting ideas using digital simulation software. Scheduling: Students collaboratively plan timelines for research, simulation, and report preparation under teacher guidance. Monitoring: Teachers facilitate studentsAo progress, provide feedback, and oversee the use of virtual color-mixing tools while students compile digital portfolios. Project Evaluation: Students present their virtual painting results, followed by teacher and peer assessment based on creativity and technical accuracy. Reflection: A reflection session concludes the learning cycle, allowing students and instructors to discuss outcomes, lessons learned, and potential improvements, supported by industry feedback. Research Findings This study aimed to develop and implement a Virtual Project-Based Learning (VPjBL) model on car paint mixing materials to enhance studentsAo creativity. The model was applied at SMK PGRI 3 Malang, a partner school of the Teacher Professional Education (PPG) Program at Universitas Negeri Malang, involving 36 students from the Automotive Body Engineering After the VPjBL implementation using the V-MIX AutoPaint software, the results showed a significant improvement in studentsAo creativity across multiple indicators. The NGain analysis revealed an average score of 0. 52, indicating a moderate increase in creativity Students demonstrated greater fluency and originality in generating color design ideas, as well as improved flexibility in combining color schemes and visual effects. Observational data also indicated that students became more confident in experimenting digitally and more engaged in collaborative discussions. These findings highlight that the VPjBL model effectively enhanced creative thinking skills while overcoming the limitations of conventional workshop-based learning. Vol. 5 No 3. Tahun 2025, hal. 1094 Ae 1105 JRIP: Jurnal Riset dan Inovasi Pembelajaran ISSN 2776-8872 Measurement of student creativity was conducted using an instrument that had been validated by three experts in vocational education and instructional design. The instrument measured four key dimensions of creativity fluency, flexibility, originality, and elaboration. The expert validation process produced an average score of 3. 85 out of 4. 00, indicating a Auvery validAy category. Furthermore, the reliability test using CronbachAos Alpha yielded a coefficient 87, confirming that the instrument was highly reliable and consistent. The results of the pretest and posttest were analyzed using the N-Gain score test to determine the effectiveness of the VPjBL model in enhancing studentsAo creativity. Quantitative Results: Increasing Student Creativity After the implementation of the Virtual Project-Based Learning (VPjBL) model, studentsAo creativity levels were re-evaluated to determine the extent of improvement. Table 1 presents the comparison of pretest and posttest scores across all creativity indicators. Tabel 2. Pretest and Posttest Scores of Student Creativity Creativity Indicator Pretest Average Posttest Mean N-Gain Category Fluency 44 Currently Flexibility 52 Currently Originality 51 Currently Elaboration 63 Currently Average Total 52 Currently The implementation of the Virtual Project-Based Learning (VPjBL) model on car paint mixing materials led to a statistically significant improvement in studentsAo creativity. A paired sample t-test revealed a significant difference between the pretest (M = 59. SD = 7. and posttest (M = 80. SD = 6. scores, t. = 9. 84, p < . The calculated effect size (CohenAos d = 1. indicates a large impact, confirming that the VPjBL model substantially enhanced creative performance. The most notable improvements were observed in the elaboration and flexibility dimensions, suggesting that virtual project-based learning encourages students to refine ideas and explore diverse solutions more effectively. Qualitative observation data also showed increased student engagement, confidence, and willingness to experiment with color variations in a risk-free digital environment. The V-MIX AutoPaint simulation successfully provided an authentic yet safe space for creativity, bridging the technical and aesthetic demands of automotive bodywork painting while addressing the limitations of traditional workshop-based The results of data analysis showed a consistent increase in all creativity indicators after the implementation of the Virtual Project-Based Learning (VPjBL) model using V-MIX AutoPaint software. As presented in Table 1, the average pretest score of studentsAo creativity 05, which increased to 80. 65 in the posttest, with an overall N-Gain score of 0. categorized as moderate improvement. Among the four creativity dimensions, elaboration showed the highest improvement (N-Gain = 0. , followed by flexibility . , originality . , and fluency . To further validate this improvement, a paired-sample t-test was conducted, showing a statistically significant difference between pretest and posttest scores . = 5. 47, p < 0. These results confirm that the VPjBL model had a significant positive impact on enhancing studentsAo The digital simulation-based learning environment provided by V-MIX AutoPaint allowed students to explore color mixing processes safely and flexibly, bridging both the technical and aesthetic competencies required in automotive body design. This finding demonstrates that integrating virtual project-based learning into vocational education can effectively stimulate creative thinking and problem-solving skills relevant to industry practice. Vol. 5 No 3. Tahun 2025, hal. 1094 Ae 1105 ISSN 2776-8872 JRIP: Jurnal Riset dan Inovasi Pembelajaran Fluency Flexibility Pretest Originality Elaboration Posttest Figure 2. Diagram of Pretest and Posttest Results The results of the study revealed that all aspects of student creativity namely fluency, flexibility, originality, and elaboration showed improvement within the moderate category. The consistent average N-gain score indicates that the VPjBL model effectively fosters studentsAo creative thinking processes by engaging them in authentic, problem-based virtual projects. This moderate improvement reflects a meaningful pedagogical outcome, as students demonstrated greater ability to generate diverse ideas, adapt to new design challenges, and elaborate on color composition strategies. Furthermore, these findings are consistent with Akafuah et al. who reported that the use of simulation software in automotive painting enhances not only the efficiency and safety of the learning process but also the precision and creativity of painting Figure 3. Application usage image One of the key advantages of the VPjBL model is that it provides a risk-free environment for exploratory learning. In conventional practice, mixing car paint is costly, potentially hazardous, and limits studentsAo opportunities to learn from trial and error. In this regard, simulation technology allows students to experiment safely, fostering deeper learning and enhancing visual and technical skills (Wu et al. , 2. Similarly, immersive simulation-based experiences have been shown to improve concept comprehension and long-term knowledge retention (Freina & Ott, 2. Moreover, project-based approaches such as VPjBL engage not only technical skills but also affective and social dimensions of learning. Observations and student interviews indicated that collaborative activities in designing color schemes and presenting results fostered a sense of responsibility, project ownership, and increased self-confidence. For instance, students reported that working together on virtual color simulations encouraged them to take initiative and experiment without fear of mistakes. These findings align with Meschut. Janzen, and Olfermann . , who highlighted that granting students full responsibility for projects enhances participation and intrinsic motivation, and with Basilotta Gymez-Pablos et al. Vol. 5 No 3. Tahun 2025, hal. 1094 Ae 1105 JRIP: Jurnal Riset dan Inovasi Pembelajaran ISSN 2776-8872 who found that project-based learning combined with digital media significantly increases studentsAo emotional engagement. Discussion Enhancement of digital skills is also a key outcome of the VPjBL model. During the digital paint mixing simulation, students not only learned to mix colors but also applied basic principles of color theory, utilized design tools, and presented visualizations of their results. Observed improvements in creativity measured quantitatively using pretest and posttest N-Gain scores showed moderate increases across all dimensions: fluency . , flexibility . , and elaboration . , with an overall average N-Gain of 0. These results indicate that VPjBL effectively supports studentsAo technical and cognitive skills, while also providing potential growth in digital literacy. These findings are consistent with Poschauko et . , who reported that simulation-based vocational learning strengthens both digital competencies and technical skills, and that modularized content with interactive simulations is effective for conveying engineering concepts to students from diverse backgrounds. Furthermore. VPjBL provides a practical solution to the limited practice facilities in many vocational schools in Indonesia. Many schools lack complete painting laboratories due to budget constraints, limited space, and high operational costs. By using a simulation-based approach. VPjBL allows students to engage in practical learning efficiently and safely without compromising learning quality. Evidence from previous studies supports this approach: Qi et . found that real-world problem-based learning supported by digital media can effectively replace limited practice facilities while maintaining learning outcomes. Similarly. Iskandar et al. demonstrated that technology-enhanced PjBL in engineering education increased conceptual understanding, learning motivation, and student creativity. This is further reinforced by Wibawanto et al. , who reported that interactive visual simulations can improve practical learning outcomes up to twice compared to conventional methods. In the present study, the implementation of VPjBL at SMK PGRI 3 Malang involving 36 students of the Automotive Body Engineering program showed a moderate increase in all creativity dimensions, with an average N-gain score of 0. 52 across fluency, flexibility, originality, and Interviews with teachers further confirmed that VPjBL enabled students to explore color mixing safely, practice repeatedly without wasting materials, and collaborate effectively, despite the schoolAos limited workshop facilities. From an instructional design perspective, the VPjBL model aligns with the 4C/ID framework, which has been applied in VR-based vehicle painting training (Tate, 2. Observations and student performance data indicate that the use of VR simulation supports the acquisition of complex technical skills, including spray angle accuracy, color composition balance, and eye-hand coordination. Additionally, feedback from instructors confirmed that students were able to practice these skills in a safe and controlled environment, overcoming the limitations of conventional workshops and providing practical, hands-on experience that mirrors real industry conditions. In the context of learning theory, the VPjBL model integrates the Design-Based Learning (DBL) approach (Anderson, 2. , allowing students to learn not only from content but also through designing, revising, and evaluating their work, thereby fostering deep reflective This aligns with findings by Mutohhari et al. , who reported that integrating engineering and design approaches (STEMAeEDP) in vocational education significantly enhances studentsAo complex skills. Furthermore, the use of simulation software in digital automotive learning provides concrete and contextual experiences, improving the quality of interactions between students and content (Puradimaja, 2. Wahyudi et al. also Vol. 5 No 3. Tahun 2025, hal. 1094 Ae 1105 JRIP: Jurnal Riset dan Inovasi Pembelajaran ISSN 2776-8872 demonstrated that online project-based learning in automotive creative production subjects significantly increases student creativity and productivity. VPjBL also facilitates meaningful collaboration between educational institutions and In this study, the digital designs and virtual project outputs were validated by industry practitioners through Focus Group Discussions (FGD. and assessment questionnaires, ensuring that the learning products met professional standards. This collaboration provides added value beyond what conventional learning methods can offer. Beccaria et al. emphasized that industry involvement in project-based vocational learning accelerates curriculum alignment with workforce needs. In the context of car painting simulations, students gained practical experience that closely mirrors professional design processes used in established automotive companies, bridging the gap between vocational education and realworld industry practices. Furthermore, the flexibility offered by VPjBL is particularly valuable in the context of post-pandemic education. Students can continue their exploration outside the classroom using personal computers or laptops, fostering self-directed learning that supports lifelong education. This flexibility not only enhances learning in automotive body painting but also suggests that VPjBL can be adapted to other vocational subjects, such as electronics, welding, or mechatronics, to extend its usefulness and impact. As Tominaga et al. emphasize, future engineering education will increasingly rely on modular, flexible, and digital-based learning models, making approaches like VPjBL highly relevant for modern vocational training. No less important is the role of teachers in the successful implementation of VPjBL. Theoretically, the success of automotive simulation learning media depends on teachersAo readiness to adopt technology and facilitate digital learning processes (Munawar et al. , 2. Therefore, teacher training and the development of digital competencies at the school level are crucial to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of this learning model. In the development of similar learning technologies. Xiong . demonstrated that multi-layer architecture-based simulation software in automotive education particularly VR engine disassembly can be applied efficiently in technical training. This finding supports the technical feasibility and scalability of V-MIX AutoPaint as a simulation system specifically for car paint mixing, directly aligning with the objectives of the VPjBL model developed in this In conclusion, the implementation of the VPjBL model using V-MIX AutoPaint significantly improved studentsAo creativity across all measured dimensions, with moderate gains in fluency, flexibility, originality, and elaboration . verage N-Gain = 0. This study demonstrates that digital simulation-based project learning provides a safe, flexible, and contextually relevant platform for technical and aesthetic skill development in automotive body Practically, the model offers a scalable approach that can be adopted by vocational schools to enhance creative learning while overcoming limitations of conventional workshops. Future research can explore the integration of additional industry-based scenarios, advanced VR features, and quantitative assessment of digital literacy to further validate and extend the modelAos effectiveness. Conclusion Based on the findings, it can be concluded that the Virtual Project-Based Learning (VPjBL) model for digital car paint mixing, developed based on digitally integrated PjBL principles, effectively enhances studentsAo creative thinking skills. Students showed improvement across all four dimensions of creativity fluency, flexibility, originality, and elaboration with an average N-Gain score of 0. 52, categorized as moderate. The model provides a safe and flexible environment for digital exploration, fosters collaborative project work, and Vol. 5 No 3. Tahun 2025, hal. 1094 Ae 1105 JRIP: Jurnal Riset dan Inovasi Pembelajaran ISSN 2776-8872 strengthens studentsAo digital literacy. Its implementation at SMK PGRI 3 Malang demonstrates that VPjBL can overcome the limitations of conventional practice facilities and offers a scalable, innovative alternative for technology-based vocational learning. Future research can explore further applications across other vocational subjects, integration with advanced VR tools, and the assessment of long-term impacts on studentsAo creativity and digital competence. Acknowledgments Thanks to the UM Postgraduate PPG Program for academic support and to LPPM UM for research funding assistance. This support is very meaningful in developing innovative learning models that are relevant to the needs of today's vocational education and industry. Conflict of Interest The authors declare that they have no competing interests or financial relationships that could have influenced the outcome of this research. Author Contributions Dani Irawan contributed to the conceptual design of the study, led the development of the VPjBL model, and coordinated the overall research process and manuscript preparation. Citra Kurniawan conducted the literature review, assisted in model implementation, and contributed to data collection and analysis. Erwin Komara Mindarta provided expertise in vocational education, supported the development of learning materials, and contributed to the interpretation of findings. Syarif Suhartadi facilitated collaboration with the partner school, assisted with technical validation, and provided feedback on the final revision of the All authors read and approved the final version of the manuscript. Data Availability Statement The authors state that the data supporting the findings of this study will be made available by the corresponding author, . ft@um. , upon reasonable request. REFERENCES