This research aims to figure out the most effective method in teaching vocational school students about steam engines as electricity generators, comparing experimental demonstrations with conventional approach in implementing the Merdeka curriculum. Using an experimental design technique with a pre-test and post-test, 60 student in class XI vocational students specializing in electrical power engineering were divided into experimental and control groups. The experimental group received experiential learning with video tutorials, whereas the control group only use conventional approach. Scores before and after tests, as well as N-Gain scores, were analysed to evaluate learning improvements. Hypothesis testing involved descriptive statistical analysis (normality and homogeneity tests) and inferential analysis (paired sample t-test). Bibliometric research supported the study. The results showed that the academic achievement of the two groups were significantly different; the experimental group showed a greater N-Gain value than the control group. The paired sample t-test confirmed significant differences with a 2-tailed value < 0.05, proving the most efficient way to teach vocational students is through experimental demonstration. This method not only enhances learning success but also supports the implementation of SDGs and the Merdeka curriculum, which emphasizes flexibility and local context relevance. Students are more equipped to help achieve goals like clean and affordable energy (SDG 7), industry, innovation, and infrastructure (SDG 9), high-quality education (SDG 4), and Climate Action (SDG 13). © School of Engineering, Taylor’s University.
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