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This study aims to explore the role of digital storytelling (DST) as a 21st-century learning strategy in strengthening character education. The rapid development of digital technology and the growing emphasis on student-centered learning have made DST a relevant pedagogical approach that integrates creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and communication with values-based education. Using a simple systematic literature review (SLR) approach, this study analyzed eight peer-reviewed journal articles published between 2020 and 2024, obtained from international academic databases Scopus. Thematic content analysis was used to synthesize findings and map the contribution of DST to 21st-century learning competencies and character development. The results identified eight key themes: increased student engagement, improved collaboration and communication, enhanced critical thinking and decision-making, creativity and multimodal expression, self-reflection and identity building, empathy and social awareness, interdisciplinary and authentic learning, and the formation of moral values. These findings support constructivist and experiential learning theories and suggest that DST not only enhances cognitive skills but also facilitates affective and ethical development. The study concludes that DST can be a transformative instructional tool in modern education. Practical implications include integrating DST into curricula across disciplines and levels, and equipping educators with training in digital pedagogy and reflective teaching design. Further research is recommended to explore DST implementation in primary and secondary schools and to evaluate its impact using mixed methods.

This systematic literature review examines the relationship between learning styles and learning media in optimizing 21st-century skills among Diploma Three (D3) vocational students. Through systematic analysis of 74 relevant national and international journal articles published between 2018 and 2024 from Scopus database, this study reveals that the alignment between learning styles (visual, auditory, kinesthetic) and learning media significantly influences the development of critical thinking, creativity, communication, and collaboration skills. Technology-based media such as interactive videos, learning management systems (LMS), and virtual simulations effectively accommodate diverse learning preferences while enhancing students' motivation and engagement in the learning process. The findings indicate that e-modules integrating problem-based learning (PBL) demonstrate effectiveness rates of 65-85% in improving critical thinking skills. This research concludes that the integration of learning styles with digital-based learning media serves as an effective strategy to produce competent and adaptive vocational graduates who are well-prepared to face the challenges of Industry 4.0 and Society 5.0.

This community service activity aims to increase the ability and creativity of the people of Situnggaling Village, Brand District, Karo Regency, in utilizing the potential of the surrounding nature in the form of telang flowers (Clitoria ternatea L.) through training in making simple syrup products. This training was attended by 34 participants consisting of housewives and village teenagers. The implementation method includes socialization of the benefits of telang flowers, syrup making demonstrations, as well as technical assistance in packaging and marketing strategies. Participants were also given an understanding of hygiene standards, the right dosage of ingredients, natural dyeing techniques, and product storage procedures to have a longer shelf life. In addition to the production aspect, this activity also discussed the economic potential of telang flower syrup products as a commodity for MSMEs, including the calculation of production costs and marketing opportunities through social media. The results showed a significant increase in participants' knowledge about the economic value and health benefits of telang flowers, as well as their ability to produce syrup independently. This activity is expected to be the first step in empowering the local potential-based economy and encouraging the formation of new sustainable home businesses in Situnggaling Village.

This study aims to examine the conceptual understanding of second-semester students in the Islamic Religious Education program at STAI Al-Gazali Soppeng regarding the mental health course. A descriptive qualitative approach was used, with data collected through observation, interviews, oral tests, weekly quizzes, and video-based assignments. The results indicate that the majority of students demonstrated a good to excellent understanding of basic mental health concepts, as reflected by an average oral test score of 90. Students were also able to integrate Islamic values such as patience (sabr), gratitude (shukr), and trust in God (tawakkul) in addressing contemporary mental health issues. Weekly quizzes proved effective in enhancing engagement, content retention, and students’ reflective thinking. Additionally, video-based projects encouraged creativity, critical thinking, and the ability to contextualize course content in real-life situations. These findings suggest that active and contextual learning strategies significantly improve students’ conceptual understanding. The study recommends the wider adoption of similar approaches in teaching courses that incorporate Islamic values to foster awareness of the importance of mental health in students’ spiritual and social lives.

This study aims to describe the implementation of co-curricular activities in instilling edupreneurship values through the production of “Keripik Lumer” (Melted Chips) among fourth-grade students at MIM Kauman Wiradesa. The activity was designed as contextual learning that emphasizes not only entrepreneurial skills but also Islamic values such as honesty, responsibility, and independence. This research employed a qualitative descriptive approach involving teachers and fourth-grade students as participants. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation, then analyzed interactively using data reduction, presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results indicate that the co-curricular activity was implemented in a planned, systematic, and continuous manner through three stages: planning, implementation, and evaluation. The teacher acted as a facilitator who guided students to develop responsibility, teamwork, creativity, and motivation throughout the process. Students demonstrated high enthusiasm, independence, and discipline during the activities. Through direct experience, students not only understood entrepreneurial concepts but also internalized positive character traits such as cooperation, self-confidence, and perseverance. Therefore, co-curricular activities based on local products like “Keripik Lumer” proved effective as contextual learning media that foster an entrepreneurial spirit from an early age. This program can serve as an innovative learning model for the development of entrepreneurship education in elementary schools and madrasahs.

This study aims to systematically examine the influence of digital literacy on the learning outcomes and 21st-century skills of high school students. The method used is a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) following the PRISMA guidelines. Data sources were obtained from various academic databases, including Google Scholar, ERIC, ScienceDirect, and SpringerLink, with publications ranging from 2019 to 2025. A total of 30 articles were selected based on predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The analysis was conducted using a thematic approach to identify patterns, relationships, and the contribution of digital literacy to learning outcomes and the development of 21st-century skills, such as critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and creativity. The synthesis results show that digital literacy has a significant influence on improving learning outcomes and strengthening 21st-century competencies. This study emphasizes the importance of integrating digital literacy into secondary school curricula and teacher training to support effective 21st-century learning.

This community service initiative was designed to increase students' enthusiasm for Arabic language instruction by applying singing techniques in co-curricular activities at Hasanka Islamic Elementary School. The program emerged in response to the low interest of students in learning Arabic, which was considered to be lacking in variety and uninteresting for elementary school children. The approach applied is Participatory Action Research (PAR), which emphasizes active participation between educators, students, and facilitators in all stages of the activity. This method is implemented through a repetitive cycle that includes planning, implementation, observation, and joint evaluation to ensure that each activity is appropriate to the needs of the students and the school environment. Data was obtained through field observations, in-depth dialogues with teachers and students, activity records, and post-instruction group discussions. Descriptive analysis was conducted to identify changes in learning behavior, engagement levels, and students' emotional responses to singing activities. The findings showed a significant increase in student motivation and participation in Arabic language learning. The findings show a significant increase in student motivation and participation in Arabic language learning. Themed songs help them remember vocabulary more effectively, improve simple communication skills, and create a more enjoyable learning atmosphere. Furthermore, students have taken the initiative to compose lyrics and lead study groups. Implicitly, the application of singing techniques has proven to be effective not only in improving linguistic competence, but also in building confidence, creativity, and cooperation in the elementary school environment.

This study examines the influence of Instagram on college students' lifestyles, focusing on the discrepancy between reality and expectations formed on social media. Instagram has become an important part of college students' lives, not only as a means of communication but also as a medium for constructing self-identity and social image. Through photo and video uploads, many students strive to project an ideal life filled with happiness and success, although this does not always align with reality. This phenomenon gives rise to social pressure, self-dissatisfaction, and a tendency towards a consumerist lifestyle driven by the desire to conform to popular trends. However, Instagram also has a positive side. If used wisely, this medium can be a source of inspiration, learning, and creativity development for students. Therefore, Instagram's influence on college students' lifestyles is largely determined by the user's level of awareness and maturity in balancing the virtual world and real life.

This researcher aims to improve student learning activity in history subjects of class X SMK Arnoldus Betun through the application of the memory board game method. The formulation of the problem raised in this study is how to apply the memory board game method to improve student learning activity in history subjects and what is the impact of applying the memory board game method to improve student learning activity in history subjects. This researcher uses a classroom action research (CAR) method consisting of three cycles. Each cycle includes the stages of planning, implementation, observation, and reflection. The data collection instruments used are observation sheets and student learning interest questionnaires. The results of the study showed a significant increase in student learning interest after the application of the memory board game method. In the second cycle, the average student learning activity was at 60%, and increased gradually to reach 86% in the third cycle. The discussion of these results shows that the memory board game method is not only able to increase student learning activity, but also facilitates collaboration, active participation, and student creativity in the history learning process. Thus, it can be concluded that the memory board game method is effective in increasing the active learning of history among 10th-grade students at Arnoldus Betun Vocational School.

This research is motivated by the low quality of learning in various educational units, one of the causes of which is the gap between curriculum design and classroom implementation. A good curriculum will not have a significant impact without effective implementation by teachers. Therefore, curriculum implementation plays a strategic role as a link between macro-level education policies and classroom learning practices. This study aims to analyze the impact of curriculum implementation on learning quality, identify supporting and inhibiting factors, and formulate strategies to strengthen learning quality. The method used is descriptive qualitative, using observation, interviews, and documentation techniques with teachers, principals, and elementary school students. The results show that the implementation of a flexible curriculum, such as the Independent Curriculum, encourages a shift from teacher-centered to student-centered learning, which increases student motivation and engagement through project-based learning and authentic assessment. However, teacher preparedness, limited infrastructure, and administrative burdens remain major obstacles. Authentic assessment has been shown to improve students' critical thinking skills and creativity, but requires consistent managerial support. The implication is that improving the quality of learning must be accompanied by strengthening teacher competency, the availability of resources, and adaptive school management so that curriculum transformation has a real impact on the quality of national education

This research is motivated by the low quality of learning in various educational units, one of the causes of which is the gap between curriculum design and classroom implementation. A good curriculum will not have a significant impact without effective implementation by teachers. Therefore, curriculum implementation plays a strategic role as a link between macro-level education policies and classroom learning practices. This study aims to analyze the impact of curriculum implementation on learning quality, identify supporting and inhibiting factors, and formulate strategies to strengthen learning quality. The method used is descriptive qualitative, using observation, interviews, and documentation techniques with teachers, principals, and elementary school students. The results show that the implementation of a flexible curriculum, such as the Independent Curriculum, encourages a shift from teacher-centered to student-centered learning, which increases student motivation and engagement through project-based learning and authentic assessment. However, teacher preparedness, limited infrastructure, and administrative burdens remain major obstacles. Authentic assessment has been shown to improve students' critical thinking skills and creativity, but requires consistent managerial support. The implication is that improving the quality of learning must be accompanied by strengthening teacher competency, the availability of resources, and adaptive school management so that curriculum transformation has a real impact on the quality of national education

This study aims to examine the effectiveness of implementing a descriptive writing learning model based on digital literacy and local wisdom in improving writing skills, learning motivation, and cultural character among junior high school students. Employing a descriptive qualitative approach with a case study design, the research was conducted at SMP Negeri 2 Kroya, Cilacap Regency, during the 2025–2026 academic year. Data were collected through participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and document analysis, and were subsequently analyzed using the interactive model developed by Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña. The findings indicate that the application of this model effectively enhances students’ writing abilities in terms of content, structure, language style, and digital literacy ethics. The integration of digital technology fosters the development of cognitive, technical, and social literacy, while the reinforcement of local wisdom cultivates cultural awareness, regional identity pride, and reflective thinking skills. Writing activities evolved into collaborative and creative processes that combine cultural exploration with the ethical use of digital technology. From a pedagogical perspective, this model aligns with the principles of deep learning promoted by the Kurikulum Merdeka and contributes to strengthening the Eight Dimensions of Graduate Competencies, particularly in critical reasoning and problem-solving, creativity and innovation, collaboration and mutual cooperation, as well as the development of the Pancasila student profile and global citizenship. Therefore, the descriptive writing learning model based on digital literacy and local wisdom can be regarded as an innovative strategy in Indonesian language education to realize a contextual, reflective, creative, and culturally grounded learning process.

Modern education often falls short in nurturing character, as it tends to prioritize cognitive achievement over holistic development producing students who excel academically but lack independence, creativity, and moral strength. This study seeks to explore the concept of Tarbiyah Based on Khudi (Ego/Selfhood) inspired by Muhammad Iqbal, positioning it as a philosophical and pedagogical framework to address the current character crisis and cultivate Independent and Creative individuals toward the realization of Insan Kamil (the Perfect Human). Employing a qualitative method through a library research approach, this study conceptually examines the three fundamental pillars of Khudi development: Obedience (Ita’at)/Discipline, Self-Mastery (Dabt-i-Zabt)/Self-Control, and Vicegerency (Niyabat-i-Ilahiyyah)/Creativity. The findings indicate that Khudi-based Tarbiyah serves as an effective integrative framework. Genuine independence arises from self-control, fostering responsible freedom and autonomy, while creativity embodies the essence of vicegerency through a continuous spirit of Ijtihad that drives social innovation and civilizational progress. Ultimately, Khudi ensures spiritual independence and moral vitality. The study recommends adopting progressive and dynamic learning models such as project-based learning aligned with the Khudi philosophy to integrate affective and psychomotor dimensions into Indonesia’s character education.

The Community Service Program (KKN) was implemented with the aim of fostering and enhancing the entrepreneurial spirit and skills of Junior High School (SMP) students through an Entrepreneurship Workshop at SMP PAB 23 Bandar Klippa. This program was designed using a practice-based participatory learning approach (learning by doing), which positions students as active subjects in all stages of the activity, from planning, production, to product marketing. A total of 39 seventh grade students were directly involved in this activity. Through this experiential learning process, students had the opportunity to develop creative thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills in a real-life setting. The evaluation results showed a significant increase in several entrepreneurial indicators, namely student self-confidence increased from 55% to 85%, communication skills from 60% to 88%, and interest in entrepreneurship from 50% to 83%. These findings prove that the practice-based learning method is effective in fostering an entrepreneurial mindset and independent character in students. Furthermore, this Community Service Program (KKN) activity demonstrates collaboration between universities and schools in implementing contextual and applicable entrepreneurship education. It also has the potential to be developed as a sustainable learning model to support the achievement of the Pancasila Student Profile, particularly in the dimensions of creativity, independence, and mutual cooperation.

This study aims to describe the entrepreneurship education process at SMP PAB 23 Bandar Klippa as a strategic step in developing a creative and independent young generation. The approach used is descriptive qualitative with data collection techniques through observation and interviews with one principal, three teachers, and thirty-nine students. The research activities were carried out during the Real Work Lecture (KKN) program which lasted for ten days in September 2025. The main focus of the study was the Market Day activity designed as a learning tool for entrepreneurial practices in the school environment. The results showed that this activity was able to foster an entrepreneurial mindset, increase creativity, build collaborative skills, and foster students' confidence in planning and managing simple businesses. Thus, entrepreneurship education has been proven to play an important role in fostering independence, creativity, and readiness of students to face future economic challenges.  

This study is motivated by the rapid development of social media, which has become an inseparable part of children’s lives in the digital era. While children gain educational and creative benefits from social media, they are also exposed to risks from negative content such as violence, pornography, and consumerist behavior, as reported by KPAI (2023) and data from We Are Social & Hootsuite (2024). To analyze this phenomenon, a library research method with a qualitative approach related to the development of children’s thinking patterns, and child protection regulations, aiming to gain a comprehensive understanding of social and juridical implications. The results indicate that social media plays a dual role in shaping children’s thinking: providing positive impacts through learning and creativity, while also posing potential negative influences if not properly supervised. Therefore, synergy is required between law enforcement based on Law Child Protection and Law Information and Electronic Transactions, parental supervision, and adequate digital literacy, so that social media can be used as an educational and safe tool for healthy child development.

Developing students' creativity at the elementary school level is an important part of shaping 21st century character and skills. One approach that can be taken is through hand training with cardboard and printed images. This student service activity aims to train the creativity of fourth grade students at SDN 3 Palangka through cardboard weaving training as an innovative learning medium. This activity is motivated by the need for more interesting, active, and enjoyable learning for students. The training is carried out through several stages, namely the compaction of basic weaving techniques, independent practice by students, and evaluation of the work produced. Students are given the freedom to be creative using pieces of used cardboard, with direct guidance from the implementation team and accompanying teachers. The results of the activity show that students are very enthusiastic about participating in this activity. They are able to produce various simple new forms with creative displays that can be used as visual aids in the learning process. In addition to producing work, this activity also forms positive student character such as cooperation, responsibility, perseverance, and courage in displaying work. This activity proves that skills-based training can be a solution to present more lively and meaningful learning. Therefore, this kind of activity is very relevant to be continued and developed as part of a sustainable school program.

This study aims to: (1) determine the influence of teacher Self Efficacy on students’ learning motivation in Economics Social Studies; (2) determine the influence of teachers’ teaching creativity on students’ learning motivation; (3) determine the influence of teacher attitudes on students’ learning motivation; (4) analyze the simultaneous influence of teacher Self Efficacy, teaching creativity, and teacher attitudes on students’ learning motivation; and (5) identify the most dominant variable affecting students’ learning motivation at SMP Negeri 9 Marusu, Maros Regency. The research was conducted from September to November 2025 using an associative quantitative approach with an ex-post facto design. The sample consisted of 155 students selected through proportional random sampling. The research instrument was a Likert-scale questionnaire that had passed validity and reliability testing. Data were analyzed using classical assumption tests and multiple linear regression with the help of SPSS. The results of the study indicate that: (1) teacher Self Efficacy has a significant partial effect on students’ learning motivation (t = 3.606, Sig. = 0.000), but becomes insignificant in the simultaneous model (t = –0.531, Sig. = 0.596); (2) teaching creativity has a positive and significant partial effect (t = 5.852, Sig. = 0.000); (3) teacher attitudes have a positive and significant effect (t = 8.008, Sig. = 0.000) and are the most dominant variable, as shown by the highest regression coefficient (B = 1.456; Beta = 0.916); (4) simultaneously, teacher Self Efficacy, teaching creativity, and teacher attitudes significantly influence students’ learning motivation (F = 38.854, Sig. = 0.000); and (5) teacher attitudes are the most dominant predictor, as indicated by B = 1.456 and Beta = 0.916. This means that the more positive the teacher's attitude, the higher the students' learning motivation.

One persistent challenge in Indonesian education is the insufficient internalization of character values among students, which can affect the overall quality of graduates. This study aims to explore the management of character education in enhancing graduate quality at Al-Ittihad Senior High School Cianjur and Ciranjang 1 Public Senior High School. The research adopts a qualitative approach using a multi-case study design. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and document analysis to obtain a comprehensive understanding of character education practices in both institutions. The findings indicate that both schools emphasize the development of strong academic character and religious or moral awareness, although through different approaches. Al-Ittihad Senior High School integrates the national curriculum with Islamic boarding school values through boarding programs, structured worship routines, and daily religious habits. In contrast, Ciranjang 1 Public Senior High School implements character education based on its BIJAK’S vision, which is embedded in intracurricular and extracurricular activities as well as positive daily habits. Organizationally, Al-Ittihad involves close collaboration between the principal, teachers, and boarding school supervisors, while Ciranjang 1 relies more on a formal public school structure, with the vice principal for student affairs and supervising teachers playing key roles. Implementation at Al-Ittihad is centered on boarding school life, whereas Ciranjang 1 focuses on the BIJAK’S program emphasizing discipline, achievement, creativity, and entrepreneurship. Supervision and evaluation at Al-Ittihad are conducted intensively by teachers, dormitory supervisors, and parents, while Ciranjang 1 applies regular teacher meetings, program evaluations, and parental involvement to monitor character development.

The rapid development of technology and the dynamic global labor market require young generations, particularly Generation Z, to possess career readiness that is determined not only by technical skills but also by non-technical competencies, or soft skills. This study aims to analyze the role of soft skills, particularly creativity, in shaping the career preparedness and success of Generation Z. Literature synthesis indicates that Generation Z excels in digital literacy and technological adaptability but still faces challenges in social and emotional competencies, such as effective communication, empathy, and cross-generational collaboration. The imbalance between hard skills and soft skills affects work effectiveness, career mobility, and the ability to build professional networks. Creativity emerges as a strategic soft skill that enhances motivation, innovation, and productivity, and can be developed through the integration of soft and hard skills, project-based learning approaches, educational technology, and the strengthening of self-efficacy. The study also identifies challenges in fostering creativity in real workplace environments, including hierarchical organizational cultures and limited mechanisms for rewarding new ideas. Based on these findings, it is recommended that educational institutions, industries, and policymakers collaborate to create a sustainable ecosystem for soft skills development, enabling Generation Z to become innovative and adaptive change agents in a competitive global career landscape.