Utilization of QR Code Technology in the SMART TOGA Program to Enhance Family Medicinal Plant Literacy in Gunung Samarinda Sub-district, Balikpapan

Pemanfaatan Teknologi QR Code dalam Program SMART TOGA untuk Meningkatkan Literasi Tanaman Obat Keluarga di Kelurahan Gunung Samarinda, Balikpapan

Abstract

SMART TOGA (Sistem Mudah Akses Ragam Informasi Tanaman Obat Keluarga) is a QR Code-based educational program developed as part of a Community Service Program (KKN) in the Gunung Samarinda neighborhood, North Balikpapan, which integrates family medicinal plants (TOGA) in residents’ backyards with digital information technology. This program is part of a Priority Program focused on Appropriate Technology and Energy, targeting five Neighborhood Units (RTs 26, 27, 28, 29, and 37) currently participating in the Clean, Green, and Healthy (CGH) competition organized by the Balikpapan City Department of the Environment. The TOGA plants are equipped with printed identification signs and QR Codes linked to a digital information page containing local and scientific names, medicinal properties, processing methods, proper usage recommendations, precautions, and scientific references, while identification designs for other plants have been prepared for future printing. A brief tutorial module on how to create QR Codes independently was also developed so that residents can continue to expand the plant database after the program ends. Observations during the implementation showed that the QR Code-based approach facilitates access to scientifically accurate information, supports the health literacy component assessed in the CGH competition, offers a low-cost, appropriate technology model that can be replicated by other neighborhood associations, and become an integrative program that connects the environment, digitalization, education, and community empowerment