The Role of Mentor Teacher in Improving Teacher Professional Education Training Program Through Learning Management System at State Islamic University of Datokarama Palu, Indonesia

The purpose of this study is to examine the role of mentor teachers in improving the professionalism of Teacher Professional Education (PPG) students based on the Learning Management System (LMS) at LPTK UIN Datokarama Palu. This research study focuses on the role of mentor teachers, their contribution to improving four teacher competencies. This study will also explain the opportunities and challenges in implementing LMS-based PPG. This study uses a qualitative case study method. Data were collected through direct field observations, in-depth interviews, and analysis of written documents related to the implementation of the teacher professionalism training program. The results of this study indicate that mentor teachers have played a role as facilitators, guides, evaluators, counselors, communicators, scaffolders, and mentors. The professionalism of students who participated in the training has increased in four core competencies: pedagogical, personality, social, and professional competencies. Opportunities for future teacher professional development include the integration of institutional systems and strengthening collaborative academics. Meanwhile, challenges that must be faced include lack of connectivity, weak time management, lack of coordination across roles, and weak student digital literacy. This study concludes that mentor teachers have been proven to play a strategic role in improving student professionalism. Therefore, the government needs to actively involve mentor teachers in the implementation of future teacher professional education.