Development of the e-Personal Counseling (e-PC) Model to Reduce Students’ Anxiety in Facing National Assessment

Abstract

The implementation of digital-based National Assessment (AN) has introduced new challenges for students, particularly anxiety related to technological demands, academic performance, and assessment readiness. This study aimed to develop and evaluate an e-Personal Counseling (e-PC) model designed to reduce students’ anxiety in facing digital-based AN. The study employed a Research and Development (R&D) approach using the ADDIE framework, consisting of Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation stages. Participants included 240 students and guidance counselors at MAN 2 Padangsidimpuan. Data were collected through anxiety questionnaires, interviews, observations, and expert validation instruments. The needs analysis revealed that 50% of students experienced moderate anxiety, while 11% and 7% were categorized as having high and very high anxiety, respectively. The e-PC model was developed as an online counseling intervention consisting of Plan, Process, Result, and Evaluation phases. Expert validation indicated high validity, with Aiken’s V values ranging from 0.816 to 0.945 across content, language, and design aspects. Practicality testing showed excellent results, with scores of 92.33% for the model book and 91.66% for the user guide. Effectiveness evaluation demonstrated improved self-confidence, emotional regulation, and reduced anxiety among students. These findings indicate that the e-PC model is a valid, practical, and effective counseling innovation for supporting students in digital assessment environments.