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Science learning in elementary schools requires evaluation strategies that are able to measure conceptual understanding while enhancing students’ motivation and engagement. One of the contextual science topics in Grade VI that requires visualization is the adaptation of living organisms. However, science learning evaluation is still dominated by conventional assessment instruments that are less varied and have not optimally utilized digital technology. This study aims to examine the development of an interactive question bank based on Quizlet as an alternative assessment tool for science learning on the topic of adaptation of living organisms in Grade VI elementary schools. This study employs a qualitative approach using a literature review method by analyzing relevant scientific articles, books, and educational policy documents. The results of the review indicate that a Quizlet-based interactive question bank has the potential to improve the quality of learning evaluation through the use of varied and interactive questions accompanied by immediate feedback. The use of Quizlet also supports student-centered learning and aligns with the principles of meaningful assessment promoted in the Merdeka Curriculum.

This study examines the integration of Christian values into the Merdeka Curriculum for Christian Religious Education (PAK) in junior high schools (SMP), focusing on the challenges and strategies for its implementation. The Merdeka Curriculum, introduced in 2022, offers flexibility in instructional design; however, its implementation in the field of PAK requires specific adaptations to maintain the relevance of Christian values such as love, justice, and responsibility. This study employs a descriptive qualitative approach using library research combined with empirical content analysis of various case studies in Indonesian Christian schools. The findings indicate that the primary challenges include resource constraints, the readiness of PAK teachers, technological infrastructure gaps, and the influence of secular digital culture. Effective strategies include the development of a contextual curriculum based on Christian values, the utilization of digital technology in learning, the enhancement of teachers’ professional competencies, and collaboration between schools, families, and churches. The implications of this study suggest that the integration of Christian values into the Merdeka Curriculum can foster the holistic character of junior high school students, equipping them with integrity, resilience, and the ability to face the challenges of the digital age.

This study aims to examine the forms and functions of representative speech acts in educational-themed video podcasts published on the Kampus Merdeka YouTube channel. This research is grounded in the phenomenon of social media, particularly YouTube, as a means of interactive, participatory communication and learning. In this context, the language used is key to conveying information authentically and responsibly. This study uses a qualitative descriptive method, with data collected through listening and note-taking. The research data consists of utterances containing representative speech acts, such as explaining, stating, informing, mentioning, acknowledging, giving examples, and speculating. Analysis was carried out using the matching method to identify the meaning and function of the utterances based on their context. The results show that representative speech acts play an important role in conveying information and views objectively, as well as strengthening the credibility of the source in the educational context. Through representative speech acts, the message conveyed becomes clearer, more convincing, and more relevant to the topic of discussion. These findings are expected to contribute to the development of effective communication strategies in educational digital media and serve as a reference for educational content creators in the digital era

The digital era demands a fundamental transformation in the role of early childhood educators, shifting from passive technology consumers to active architects of digital literacy. However, the dominance of technocentric views often acts as a substantial psychological and pedagogical barrier for teachers in regional areas. This collaborative community service project aims to reconstruct the paradigm of 50 kindergarten teachers in Bulukumba Regency by integrating "unplugged coding" logic and deep learning into play-based learning. Utilizing a Product-Based Intensive Training method with a "Logic over Laptop" strategy, the program focused on deconstructing technology-related stigmas and reconstructing teachers' ability to transform abstract concepts into safe, concrete media for children. Data analysis revealed a significant shift in teacher paradigms; while the majority were initially in the "less successful" category, 100% of participants reached positive categories (successful and very successful) post-intervention. Statistically, the program's effectiveness was evidenced by a dramatic increase in mean scores from 18.04 to 31.24 (p < 0.05) and an N-Gain score of 0.778, classified as highly effective. Furthermore, the partner satisfaction index reached 4.82 (very satisfied), confirming that the tri-campus collaboration model (STAI Al-Gazali, UNM, and Unismuh) is highly relevant to the implementation of the Merdeka Belajar curriculum. This project concludes that strengthening digital literacy through non-digital algorithmic reasoning effectively dismantles technical barriers for teachers while ensuring the safety of child development in the digital age.

Formal education systems are often trapped in rigid standardization that actually shackles students' creativity and personal uniqueness. This issue raises questions about the extent to which individual freedom is accommodated in modern curricula that tend to be pragmatic. Departing from this issue, this study aims to explore the relevance of Jean-Jacques Rousseau's Romanticism which prioritizes affection and the general will in the context of education. Rousseau argued that the development of science and culture often acts as a chain that restrains humans, thus he proposed the concept of natural education that allows children's instincts to develop freely without damaging cultural intervention. Using qualitative methods based on literature review, this research identified a strong common ground between Rousseau's vision and Indonesia's Freedom to Learn policy. The study reveals that both share a common philosophical foundation: restoring educational sovereignty to institutions and students, allowing them to independently develop their potential, talents, and interests. Therefore, synchronizing Rousseau's ideas with Freedom to Learn serves as a crucial foundation for creating a higher-quality and more humane national education ecosystem.

The rapid advancement of digital technology has transformed educational practices while simultaneously posing challenges to the preservation of local cultural values. This study aims to develop and evaluate a digital ethnopedagogical reconstruction model that integrates local historical narratives of North Sumatra into the Merdeka Curriculum within the Primary School Teacher Education (PGSD) program. Employing a Research and Development (R&D) approach with the 4D model, this study utilized a mixed-methods design involving document analysis, interviews, observations, expert validation, and field trials. The findings reveal that local historical narratives—comprising folkloric legends, educational acculturation, and the heritage of local sultanates—possess strong ethnopedagogical potential when reconstructed through interactive digital media. Quantitative results demonstrate a significant 38% increase in students’ ethnopedagogical understanding, supported by high content validity (89%) and media feasibility (92%) scores. Qualitative findings further indicate enhanced cultural awareness, historical empathy, and learner engagement. The study concludes that the effectiveness of digital ethnopedagogical innovation is primarily determined by its pedagogical integration within the learner-centered framework of the Merdeka Curriculum. This research contributes a sustainable model for culturally grounded digital pedagogy in teacher education.

This study is motivated by the importance of understanding syntactic structures in Indonesian, particularly noun phrases that are frequently used in news texts. Noun phrases play a crucial role in ensuring clarity of meaning and accuracy of information, especially in journalistic language that emphasizes conciseness and precision. The aim of this research is to identify the types and analyze the structural patterns of noun phrases found in news articles about Universitas Negeri Semarang on the Suara Merdeka online portal, August 2025 edition. This research employs a qualitative descriptive method with data collected through the observation and note-taking technique, followed by distributional analysis to classify phrase types and structures. The results reveal three main types of noun phrases: modificative, coordinative, and appositive, with the Diterangkan–Menerangkan (DM) pattern being the most dominant. This dominance indicates the journalistic tendency toward concise and efficient expression. The findings contribute theoretically to linguistic studies, particularly syntax, and practically offer helpful sugestions for journalists, educators, and students to improve accuracy and effectiveness in academic and journalistic writing.

This research aims to describe the implementation of the Pancasila Student Profile Strengthening Project (P5) in shaping student character at SD Negeri 160 Palembang. As a core component of the Independent Curriculum (Kurikulum Merdeka), P5 is designed to reinforce the fundamental values of Pancasila in students.This study employs a qualitative case study method. Data were collected through direct observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation involving the principal, vice-principal of curriculum, classroom teachers, students, and parents. The results indicate that P5 implementation is carried out through three systematic stages: planning (team formation and theme selection), execution (applying experiential learning that encourages collaboration), and assessment. The three primary values emphasized are faith and morality, respecting differences, and togetherness. Despite challenges such as time constraints, synchronization of materials across subjects, and the need for teacher training, the study concludes that P5 is an effective instrument for character education. To optimize results, it is recommended to enhance program monitoring and align the conceptual understanding of P5 among educators. Overall, SD Negeri 160 Palembang has demonstrated a serious commitment to integrating P5 as a means of positive character building.

This study aims to investigate the skill gaps experienced by bachelor’s degree graduates in Indonesia when facing the dual demands of Industry 4.0 and Society 5.0. The method applied in this research is a systematic literature review, synthesizing findings from 21 scientific articles focusing on the dynamics of skill gaps and the effectiveness of higher education interventions in Indonesia. The study findings reveal two main categories of competency gaps. In the context of Industry 4.0, the most significant deficiencies are observed in specific hard skills, particularly data literacy, artificial intelligence proficiency, and automation across various sectors. Meanwhile, within the Society 5.0 dimension, deeper gaps emerge in soft skills and human-centered competencies, including complex problem-solving, emotional intelligence, creativity, and environmentally sustainable skills. These human-centered skill gaps play a critical role in enhancing graduate value as AI technologies increasingly replace routine tasks. Although the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka program shows positive outcomes in improving sustainability skills and digital certification, it has not fully succeeded in driving fundamental transformation of higher education learning outcomes, limiting alignment with sustainability principles and the Society 5.0 approach. It can be concluded that Indonesian higher education faces the challenge of undertaking fundamental curriculum reform to integrate human-centered competencies as a foundation for preparing future human resources.

Social Studies (IPS) learning at the elementary school level plays a strategic role in shaping students’ understanding of social, cultural, and economic life, as well as national values. This study aims to analyze the differences between the 2013 Curriculum and the Merdeka Curriculum in IPS learning, including planning, implementation, the use of methods and media, and the assessment of learning outcomes. The research employed a descriptive qualitative approach with a case study, collecting data from curriculum documents, lesson plans (RPP), syllabi, classroom observations, interviews with teachers and school principals, and student questionnaires. The results indicate that the 2013 Curriculum provides a clear learning structure, detailed lesson plans, and systematic material organization that facilitates teachers, but it is less flexible and less contextualized for students. In contrast, the Merdeka Curriculum emphasizes flexibility, relevance of content to the local context, innovative methods such as project-based learning and blended learning, as well as holistic assessment focusing on critical thinking skills, social literacy, and student character. The implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum can enhance students’ learning interest, active participation, understanding of social concepts, and social awareness; however, its effectiveness depends on teacher readiness, school support, facilities, and consistency in assessment. These findings suggest that selecting an appropriate IPS curriculum should consider a balance between structure and flexibility, content relevance, teacher competence, and supporting facilities.

This study aims to systematically analyze the implementation of formative and summative assessments in Grade IV Islamic Religious Education (PAI) at SDN 2 Konda within the framework of the Merdeka Curriculum. The research employs a qualitative approach with a case study design to obtain an in-depth and contextual understanding of classroom assessment practices. Data were collected through classroom observations, in-depth interviews with teachers, the principal, and parents, as well as an analysis of curriculum documents and various assessment instruments used throughout the learning process. The data were analyzed using thematic coding techniques supported by NVivo software, guided by the Formative Summative Continuum framework to examine the alignment and integration between both assessment types. The findings indicate that teachers have regularly implemented formative assessment through digital quizzes, direct observation, reflective discussions, and continuous feedback, which have increased student participation and strengthened competency mastery. Meanwhile, summative assessment was conducted at the end of the semester through written tests and project-based assignments; however, it still primarily emphasizes cognitive aspects and has not fully integrated formative assessment evidence. The study also identifies limitations in the use of multidimensional rubrics, continuous portfolio management, and meaningful parental involvement in the overall evaluation process.

Science education in elementary schools requires the active involvement of students through meaningful learning experiences. One of the essential subjects in fourth grade elementary school is the growth and development of animals and plants. However, science education is still often conducted conventionally, so that students' scientific process skills have not developed optimally. This study aims to analyze and describe the application of the Project-Based Learning (PjBL) model in science learning projects on the growth and development of animals and plants with the support of Seesaw and Flashcard Quizlet digital media through a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach. The research method used SLR with a descriptive qualitative approach to relevant scientific articles published between 2019 and 2025. The results of the study show that the application of PjBL can increase student learning activity, scientific process skills, and understanding of science concepts. The use of Seesaw was effective as a medium for project documentation and reflection, while Flashcard Quizlet helped reinforce concepts and formative evaluation. Thus, the integration of PjBL, Seesaw, and Quizlet can be an innovative learning alternative that is relevant to the Merdeka Curriculum and the needs of elementary school students.

This study aims to describe the implementation of the curriculum in mathematics learning at Al Ihsan Yapis Kotaraja Elementary School in the context of the Merdeka Curriculum. The focus of the study includes learning planning, learning implementation, the use of media and learning resources, the role of teachers and schools, and learning evaluation. The research uses a qualitative descriptive approach with data collection techniques through questionnaires, interviews, observations, and documentation. Data analysis was carried out through data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing using triangulation techniques to ensure data validity. The results show that the implementation of the curriculum in mathematics learning has been quite effective. Teachers apply student-centered learning through differentiated learning and various learning strategies, such as lectures, discussions, and deep learning approaches. The most widely used media and learning resources are printed books and the internet. Teachers and schools play an important role in creating active learning and supporting the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum. However, learning evaluation is still dominated by written tests, so it does not fully reflect authentic assessment in accordance with learning objectives. Therefore, improvements are needed in the application of authentic assessment and the integration of learning objectives, learning strategies, and assessment techniques so that curriculum implementation can run more optimally.

This systematic literature review examines the implementation of Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) in Indonesian senior high schools. Following PRISMA guidelines, nine studies published between 2021 and 2025 were analyzed to identify the benefits and challenges of this approach. The findings reveal that CLIL effectively enhances student engagement, motivation, and the integrated development of subject knowledge and English proficiency. However, implementation is often hindered by limited teacher readiness, insufficient collaboration between subject and language teachers, and a lack of appropriate assessment methods. Analysis using the 4Cs Framework shows that while Content and Communication are prioritized, Cognition and Culture receive less explicit attention. The study implies that successful CLIL sustainability requires continuous professional development and stronger institutional support within the Merdeka Curriculum. These results provide a strategic basis for educators and policymakers to optimize bilingual instruction in Indonesia.

This paper aims to describe the implementation and development of the Merdeka Curriculum at SD IT Permata Hati Entrop, an Integrated Islamic Elementary School. As an educational institution with a vision of integrating general knowledge with Islamic values, SD IT Permata Hati adapts the national curriculum to create learning that is more flexible, focused on essential content, and character-based. This curriculum is developed to optimize students’ potential holistically, encompassing cognitive, affective, and psychomotor aspects through the strengthening of the Pancasila Student Profile.The main focus of curriculum development at this school consists of three pillars: innovative intracurricular learning, the Project for Strengthening the Pancasila Student Profile (P5), and extracurricular activities that support students’ interests and talents. In its implementation, the school applies active learning methods such as Problem-Based Learning (PBL) and contextual learning linked to daily life and Islamic principles. The evaluation process is conducted through formative and summative assessments that are humanistic and reflective in nature. The outcomes of this development are expected to equip students with 21st-century skills and strong religious character in accordance with the demands of the times.

Penataan kembali kewenangan lembaga penegak hukum merupakan agenda strategis dalam mewujudkan tata kelola pemerintahan yang akuntabel pasca reformasi 1998. Reformasi kelembagaan yang berjalan selama ini cenderung parsial, tidak komprehensif, sehingga melahirkan fragmentasi kelembagaan, tumpang tindih kewenangan, serta lemahnya koordinasi. Tulisan ini bertujuan mengkaji pengaturan lembaga penegak hukum dalam tata kelola pemerintahan, mengidentifikasi kendala pelaksanaan penegakan hukum pasca reformasi, Metode yang digunakan adalah yuridis normatif dengan pendekatan sosiologis melalui kajian peraturan perundang-undangan, putusan pengadilan, dan literatur hukum terkait. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa landasan konstitusional penataan lembaga penegak hukum berpijak pada Pasal 1 ayat (3) dan Pasal 24 ayat (1) UUD NRI Tahun 1945 yang menegaskan Indonesia sebagai negara hukum dengan kekuasaan kehakiman yang merdeka. Kendala utama yang ditemukan meliputi intervensi politik , ego sektoral antarlembaga, dan budaya impunitas yang mengakar. Penataan kewenangan yang ideal mensyaratkan empat langkah: rasionalisasi kelembagaan, delineasi kewenangan yang tegas, pembangunan mekanisme koordinasi antarlembaga yang efektif, serta penguatan lembaga pengawas independen. Penelitian ini menyimpulkan bahwa akuntabilitas tata kelola pemerintahan hanya dapat terwujud melalui pergeseran paradigma dari rule by law menuju rule of law yang berkeadilan substantif.

This study compares curriculum strategies in Indonesia, Finland, Singapore, Japan, and the United States to identify common goals and distinctive approaches in facing global educational challenges. Using a qualitative descriptive method through library research, data were collected from academic journals, policy documents, and official reports. The findings show that all five countries view the curriculum as a strategic tool for developing human resources with 21st-century skills, such as critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication, while also emphasizing character education. Indonesia's curriculum has evolved into the flexible and student-centered Merdeka Curriculum, though challenges remain in teacher readiness and regional disparities. Finland applies a trust-based and holistic approach centered on equality and teacher autonomy. Singapore implements a systematic and adaptive curriculum guided by the vision of "Thinking Schools, Learning Nation." Japan emphasizes stability, discipline, and moral education, while the United States adopts a decentralized and innovative system focused on inclusivity and competency-based learning.

The use of the social media platform TikTok as a learning medium in Social Studies (IPS) has emerged as an innovative strategy to enhance students’ learning creativity and engagement in the digital era and within the Merdeka Curriculum framework. This study aims to examine the effectiveness of TikTok in supporting creative learning processes, particularly in helping students understand Social Studies content in a visual, interactive, and easily accessible manner. The research was conducted through an online training seminar involving teachers and students, which included material delivery, demonstrations of TikTok usage, hands-on practice in creating learning content, and trial implementation in classroom learning activities. The analysis focused on three main aspects: (1) the improvement of teachers’ competencies in designing creative TikTok-based learning media, (2) students’ responses and learning experiences when using the platform, and (3) the effectiveness of the media in enhancing students’ understanding of Social Studies concepts. The results indicate that the use of TikTok improves the quality of learning media created by teachers and facilitates students’ independent learning. Pre-test and post-test data show an increase in students’ conceptual understanding, while student responses reveal a high level of learning interest through visual and interactive media. Nevertheless, several challenges related to device availability and internet connectivity were identified among some participants. In conclusion, TikTok is effective as an independent learning medium for Social Studies and contributes positively to improving students’ understanding and learning motivation. The study recommends continuous mentoring for teachers, strengthening ICT infrastructure, and further development of diverse learning media to support learning needs within the Merdeka Curriculum.

The implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum requires teachers to possess adequate competence in developing contextual and meaningful Madrasah Lesson Plans (RPM). One of the main challenges lies in teachers’ ability to integrate deep learning approaches into instructional planning. This community service program aimed to enhance the competence of teachers at SD IT Al-Markazul Islami in developing deep learning–based Merdeka Curriculum lesson plans. The program employed a structured and participatory approach through training and mentoring activities, including conceptual presentations, group discussions, and hands-on practice in lesson plan development. Evaluation was conducted using a competence questionnaire administered to 20 participating teachers in the pretest and posttest stages. The data were analyzed descriptively. The results indicated that teachers’ competence scores in the pretest ranged from 54 to 63, with a mean score of 58.7, which fell into the moderate category. Following the intervention, posttest scores increased to a range of 89–97, with a mean score of 92.9, categorized as high. The improvement in scores ranged from 33 to 35 points for each participant. These findings demonstrate that the training and mentoring activities were effective in enhancing teachers’ competence in developing lesson plans aligned with the principles of the Merdeka Curriculum and deep learning approaches.

Trust among educators constitutes a critical social capital that underpins organizational effectiveness in higher education institutions. This study investigates the impact of trust erosion among educators on the decline in the achievement of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs/IKU) in higher education. The central problem addressed in this research is the weakening of academic collaboration, reduced engagement in the tridharma of higher education, and the emergence of latent conflicts that negatively affect KPI achievement, particularly in lecturer performance, research collaboration, and the implementation of the Merdeka Belajar–Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) policy. This study aims to analyze the relationship between the level of trust among educators and institutional KPI performance, as well as to identify the organizational and social mechanisms underlying this phenomenon. A mixed-methods explanatory design was employed, combining quantitative survey data with in-depth interviews and institutional performance document analysis. The findings reveal a significant negative correlation between trust erosion and KPI achievement. The study concludes that strengthening organizational trust is a strategic prerequisite for sustaining and improving higher education performance.