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This study investigates teachers’ perceptions, challenges, and institutional support related to the implementation of Differentiated Instruction (DI) in a rural Indonesian secondary school under the context of the Kurikulum Merdeka reform. While DI is widely recognized as a student-centered pedagogical framework that adapts content, process, product, and learning environment to students’ readiness, interests, and learning profiles (Tomlinson, 2017), its application in rural contexts remains underexplored. Employing a qualitative case study design, data were collected from three English teachers and two school stakeholders at MTs N 2 Manggarai Barat through semi-structured interviews, questionnaires, and classroom observations. Thematic analysis revealed that teachers perceived DI as a way to recognize learner diversity and as part of curriculum compliance, but their practices often remained partial and uneven. Stakeholders expressed awareness of DI, though with differing emphases: the headmaster focused on inclusivity, while the curriculum coordinator referred to multiple intelligences and student potential. Teachers faced challenges in three main areas: managing student diversity and curriculum shifts, preparing the Modul Ajar, and addressing students’ limited English vocabulary. Institutional support was evident through facilities, monitoring, and professional development, yet remained largely administrative rather than pedagogical. These findings confirm earlier studies that DI in Indonesia is conceptually valued but practically constrained by systemic, contextual, and linguistic barriers. The study recommends sustained, hands-on professional development, leadership mentoring, and reduced administrative burdens to enable DI’s transformative potential in rural schools.

This study investigates the simultaneous and individual effects of School-Based Management (SBM), principal supervision, transformational leadership, and work culture on the performance of junior high school teachers in Serang City, Indonesia. Against the backdrop of the Merdeka Curriculum and the shift to hybrid learning in the post-pandemic era, the research addresses persistent challenges such as hierarchical school cultures and technological disparities. Employing a quantitative ex post facto approach, data were collected from 316 teachers across public and private schools through structured questionnaires, classroom observations, and document analysis. Multiple linear regression analysis reveals that SBM, principal supervision, transformational leadership, and work culture each have significant and positive impacts on teacher performance, with transformational leadership and work culture exerting the most substantial influence. The results demonstrate that 74% of the variance in teacher performance can be explained by these four organizational factors, underscoring their critical role in shaping pedagogical competence, classroom management, and professional development. The study further highlights the necessity for comprehensive managerial training, the integration of technology in supervisory practices, and the cultivation of collaborative and innovative work cultures. Practical recommendations include enhancing principal leadership capacity, fostering instructional supervision, and investing in digital infrastructure to support sustainable improvements in teacher performance. The findings contribute to the body of knowledge on educational management in Indonesia and offer actionable insights for policymakers, school leaders, and educators aiming to strengthen teacher effectiveness amidst ongoing educational reforms and digital transformation.

The implementation of teaching and learning activities in Indonesia is guided by the Curriculum. The curriculum is developed and refined in line with the rapid development of science and technology and the evolution of society. In the conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic, major changes have occurred in the world of education, especially in Indonesia, with a shift from direct learning in classrooms to distance education based on digital technology. The aim of this research is to analyze the effect of implementing the Independent Curriculum at SDN 060826 Kec. Medan Area. Through this approach, it is hoped to obtain a clearer picture of the effectiveness of the curriculum in improving the quality of education as well as identifying obstacles and opportunities that arise in its implementation. This research uses a descriptive qualitative method to analyze the effect of implementing the Merdeka Curriculum at SDN 060826 Kec. Medan Area. Research conducted by researchers at SDN 060826 Kec. Medan Area, it can be seen that they always regularly attend training from both the principal and teachers and to strengthen teachers' understanding of the Independent Learning Curriculum, teachers always hold monthly meetings with the Teacher Working Group (KKG) to resolve various problems related to the Independent Learning Curriculum. as well as to increase teacher competence in the process of teaching and learning activities.

This study examines the practice of project-based procedural text learning in seventh grade at SMP Negeri 4 Cilacap in the context of the implementation of the Independent Curriculum. The approach used was qualitative with a case study method through participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The results showed that teachers implemented contextual and project-based learning strategies by utilizing digital media and integrating the values ​​of the Pancasila Student Profile. Students demonstrated active involvement in learning activities, especially in the creation of video tutorials and procedural posters. However, there were still obstacles in the form of teachers' limited understanding of the application of learning differentiation and formative assessment, as well as a lack of adequate digital infrastructure support. This study provides a theoretical contribution to the development of a more contextual and transformative Indonesian language learning model. Practically, these findings can serve as a reference for teachers and policymakers in designing learning strategies relevant to student needs and encouraging the use of innovative media to increase student participation and understanding, particularly in coastal areas.

The curriculum serves as a guideline for the teaching and learning process in schools. In Indonesia, the curriculum continues to evolve in line with changes in time and societal needs. These changes aim to adapt to advancements in science and technology, address challenges within the education system, and achieve more effective learning outcomes. This research adopts a qualitative approach with a literature study method, drawing data from journal articles, books, research reports, and other documents. The findings illustrate the evolution of the national primary education curriculum from 1945 to the Merdeka Curriculum of 2022, depicting a lengthy journey of curriculum adaptation to Indonesia's educational dynamics. The implications of this research emphasize the importance of developing a curriculum that is responsive to both global and local developments, as well as the necessity for an adaptive education system to meet the needs of modern society.

This study aims to describe the implementation of the Pancasila Student Profile Strengthening Project (P5) through the entrepreneurship theme at SMP Negeri 5 Kota Bengkulu and to identify its supporting and inhibiting factors. P5 is a program within the Merdeka Curriculum that emphasizes project-based learning to foster 21st-century skills and character, which include the dimensions of faith, global diversity, cooperation, independence, critical thinking, and creativity. This research employed a descriptive qualitative method with data collected through interviews, observations, and documentation. The findings reveal that the implementation of P5 was systematically carried out in planning, implementation, and evaluation stages. In the entrepreneurship theme, students were engaged in designing, producing, and marketing cassava chips. These activities enhanced entrepreneurial skills while also promoting independence, creativity, collaboration, and responsibility. The main supporting factors included strong leadership commitment, teacher creativity, availability of simple facilities, and involvement of parents and the local community. On the other hand, inhibiting factors identified were limited teacher training, a short project duration, minimal production resources, and the absence of standardized evaluation instruments. Overall, the implementation of P5 through the entrepreneurship theme successfully provided meaningful learning experiences that not only strengthened students’ understanding of entrepreneurship but also integrated Pancasila values into daily practice. The results of this study may serve as a reference for other schools in developing contextual P5 projects oriented toward character building.

The Merdeka Learning - Merdeka Campus (MBKM) policy is a groundbreaking initiative in Indonesia’s higher education system, aiming to create more flexible learning opportunities, connect students with the workforce, and integrate experiential learning. The key strength of this policy lies in its ability to empower students to develop independent learning through extracurricular activities that align with their competencies. At Yudharta Pasuruan University, MBKM has been adopted as an important strategy to enhance the quality of education while preparing graduates to be adaptive and competent in an ever-changing job market. The main aim of this research is to analyze how the planning, implementation, and evaluation of the MBKM program at Yudharta Pasuruan University contribute to improving student independence in learning. The focus of this study includes examining curriculum management, faculty support, and the university's partnerships with external organizations, which are all vital components of the MBKM program. This research uses a qualitative approach, with data collected through interviews, observations, and document analysis. The data analysis process involves data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. The results of the study indicate that Yudharta Pasuruan University has successfully implemented MBKM through clear policy planning, curriculum adjustments, and the strengthening of external partnerships. Students have gained significant benefits, including increased independence in learning, enhanced critical thinking skills, improved adaptability, and valuable real-world experiences in their chosen fields. These outcomes show that the MBKM program at Yudharta Pasuruan University plays a critical role in transforming higher education, making it more relevant, sustainable, and aligned with the needs of both students and the workforce. This research underscores the importance of MBKM in encouraging the development of a more independent and competent generation of graduates.

This study aims to analyze K.H. Ahmad Dahlan’s concept of educational philosophy and its implications for the principles and components of the Kurikulum Merdeka (Independent Curriculum). The research employs a qualitative approach using library research with a descriptive-comparative analysis method. Data were obtained from primary and secondary literature discussing Ahmad Dahlan’s educational thought and national education policies. The findings indicate that Ahmad Dahlan’s educational philosophy emphasizes the integration of religious and general sciences, rejecting the dichotomy of knowledge. This concept aligns with the spirit of the Independent Curriculum, which promotes learning freedom, character development, and contextual learning. His philosophical ideas are reflected in strengthening the values of the Profil Pelajar Pancasila, including faith, critical thinking, independence, and collaboration. Therefore, Ahmad Dahlan’s educational philosophy serves as a philosophical foundation for developing a national education system that is both character-based and civilized.  

Indonesia’s position along the Pacific Ring of Fire makes it highly vulnerable to natural disasters, highlighting the urgent need to integrate disaster mitigation into school learning. Geography, as a discipline that examines Earth’s physical and human phenomena, holds strategic potential for strengthening students’ disaster awareness and preparedness, especially in high-risk regions such as Ambon. The Merdeka Curriculum provides instructional flexibility that enables the incorporation of disaster-related themes into learning processes. This study aims to design and develop a disaster-mitigation-based geography teaching module for senior high schools in Ambon City. A qualitative case study approach was employed, involving classroom observations, in-depth interviews, and document analysis to explore existing teaching practices and needs. The study producede a comprehensive design for a disaster-mitigation-integrated geography module. The findings demonstrate that integrating disaster mitigation into geography learning through a structured module enhances the relevance, applicability, and effectiveness of instruction. This research contributes to strengthening disaster-responsive geography education within the Merdeka Curriculum and supports efforts to improve student preparedness in disaster-prone areas.

Social-emotional skills are an important aspect of early childhood development that influences learning readiness and character formation. This study aims to analyze the role of role-playing activities in supporting children's social-emotional development. The method used is descriptive qualitative with a literature study approach through a review of accredited journals, early childhood education books, and articles published in the last five years. The results of the study show that role-playing can improve empathy, cooperation, emotional regulation, and communication. Children who are involved in this activity are more courageous in expressing themselves, understanding the feelings of others, and learning to control their emotions in social interactions. These findings confirm that role-playing not only serves as a means of entertainment but also as a learning strategy that supports the achievement of early childhood education learning in the Merdeka Curriculum. The implication of this research is the need for teachers to be creative in designing contextual role-playing scenarios, providing adequate playing facilities, and supporting educational policies so that role-playing activities can become the foundation for the formation of early childhood character that is empathetic, communicative, and disciplined.

This study aims to examine the impact of the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum on improving the competence and performance of Christian Religious Education teachers based on Mark 1:21–28 in South Tangerang City. The Merdeka Curriculum, launched in 2022, was designed as a solution for student-centered and differentiated learning. The research focuses on analyzing teachers’ lack of understanding in preparing differentiated learning, the suboptimal imple-mentation of project-based learning, and the relationship between the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum and the improvement of teachers’ competence and performance. The study was conducted within the Ministry of Religious Affairs, South Tangerang City, Banten Province, with a population of 61 Christian Religious Education teachers. Data were collected through questionnaires and analyzed using Microsoft Excel 2010 and SPSS 25 for Windows with a quantita-tive approach, regression analysis, and linearity testing. The results show that the implementation of the Merdeka Curric-ulum has a positive impact on teacher competence (87.2%) and performance (86.3%). These findings align with Jesus’ teaching principles in Mark 1:21–28, namely authoritative teaching that produces tangible impact, serving as a theological foundation for improving teaching quality. In conclusion, the better the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum, the higher the competence and performance of Christian Religious Education teachers in South Tangerang City.

The purpose of this research is to understand and examine the level of understanding and problems faced by teachers towards the implementation of the independent curriculum in physical education learning. The population of this study is all PJOK subject teachers in Pasuruan Regency and use cluster random sampling. The instruments in this research used questionnaires, interviews and documentation. Data analysis techniques use quantitative and qualitative descriptive techniques. Quantitative analysis is obtained from the results of teachers filling out questionnaires and analyzed using percentage formulas. While qualitative analysis using data reduction, data presentation, and making conclusions. The results of filling out a questionnaire on the level of teacher understanding of the implementation of the independent curriculum in physical education learning in elementary schools in Pasuruan Regency were obtained 75,53% with the category of understanding most. At the planning stage, 76,40% were obtained, the learning implementation stage was 74,74%, the learning assessment was 74,99%, the processing and reporting stage of assessment results was 75,64%, and the reflection and follow-up stage was 75,26%. Furthermore, the problem that becomes difficult is when carrying out learning which leads to strengthening the Pancasila Student Profile. So it can be concluded that the level of teacher understanding of the implementation of the independent curriculum in PJOK learning in junior high schools in Pasuruan Regency results in understanding most of it. And the most difficult problem lies in Pancasila Student Profile.  

Problem-Based Learning (PBL) is a student-centered teaching approach, where the learning process begins with a real-life problem relevant to everyday life. PBL encourages students to actively seek information, analyze data, and formulate solutions through group work and discussion. This approach not only develops critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills but also increases students' independence and responsibility for their own learning process. This article aims to examine how PBL is implemented in two main curricula in Indonesia: the 2013 Curriculum (K13) and the Independent Curriculum. In the 2013 Curriculum, PBL is integrated through a scientific approach and project-based activities, where students are invited to explore concepts and theories through investigative activities. Meanwhile, the Independent Curriculum provides more space for teachers and students to design contextual and personalized learning activities, making the implementation of PBL more flexible and adaptive to local needs and student characteristics. The literature review results indicate that both curricula effectively utilize PBL principles to enhance students' cognitive and metacognitive skills. The Independent Curriculum, in particular, places greater emphasis on independent learning, self-reflection, and the development of student interests through differentiated learning. Thus, the application of PBL within the context of the Independent Curriculum has proven to be more adaptive to the dynamics of 21st-century learning. In conclusion, the use of Problem-Based Learning in both curricula has significant potential to enhance students' learning abilities, as long as the approach is tailored to school conditions, student characteristics, and is supported by competent teachers and training in implementing this method effectively.

Improving the quality of biology learning in secondary schools requires pedagogical innovations that connect academic content with real-life contexts and leverage digital technology. This study aims to analyze the effect of a contextual teaching approach assisted by interactive PowerPoint on students’ learning outcomes in the human respiratory system topic. A true experimental design with a pretest–posttest control group was employed at SMA Negeri 1 Langowan, involving two eleventh-grade classes selected through simple random sampling. The experimental class received contextual instruction integrated with interactive PowerPoint, while the control class was taught using conventional methods. Data were collected through validated achievement tests and analyzed using normality and homogeneity tests, followed by independent and paired t-tests. The results indicate a significant improvement in learning outcomes for students in the experimental class compared to the control group. The experimental group’s posttest scores were substantially higher, and the difference was statistically significant. Integrating a contextual approach with interactive visualization effectively enhanced students’ understanding of abstract biology concepts, promoted active participation, and strengthened learning motivation. These findings support constructivist theory and highlight the relevance of contextual teaching in science education aligned with the Merdeka Curriculum. The study implies the importance of implementing context-based strategies combined with simple digital media to improve biology learning effectiveness. Future research may explore its impact on non-cognitive skills such as critical thinking and scientific attitudes. Furthermore, the results of this study provide opportunities for teachers to be more creative in designing teaching materials that are not only informative but also interactive and relevant to students' lives. By utilizing media such as interactive PowerPoint, teachers can present complex biological content in a more engaging and understandable way.

In addition to the main aspects of teacher competency, the study also emphasizes the importance of leadership and institutional support in the effective implementation of policies. The school leadership plays a crucial role in creating a conducive environment for professional development, fostering a culture of collaboration among teachers, and ensuring the implementation of competency-based assessments. It was found that the active involvement of the principal in monitoring and providing feedback to teachers significantly contributes to the continuous improvement of teaching practices. The study also highlights the importance of aligning teacher competency development with the school's educational goals and objectives. While some teachers have demonstrated significant improvement in their teaching methods and student engagement, others still require more support to fully integrate the competencies into their daily practices. The continuous professional development of teachers is therefore vital to ensure that the competencies are not only understood but also consistently applied in the classroom. Moreover, the study recognizes the critical role of community and parental involvement in enhancing the quality of education. Collaboration between the school, parents, and the local community can create a more supportive learning environment, ensuring that students receive the necessary resources and encouragement both at school and at home. In conclusion, the research suggests that while the implementation of teacher competency policies at SDN 2 Lubuk Seberuk has shown positive results, the process should be supported with more training opportunities, resource allocation, and consistent monitoring to overcome existing challenges.

This community service activity addresses the growing need for adaptive education in the digital era by focusing on strengthening the character and competence of students in line with rapid technological developments. The Pancasila Student Profile, which serves as the foundation of the Merdeka Curriculum, outlines six core dimensions: faith and piety, global diversity, cooperation, independence, critical reasoning, and creativity. Among these, creativity, independence, and critical thinking are crucial for preparing students to become innovators and problem-solvers in the digital world. However, schools in developing regions often face limitations in implementing these dimensions due to lack of resources and digital literacy. This program was implemented at SMA Negeri 2 Sorong Regency with the objective of strengthening the Pancasila Student Profile by providing training in the use of Thunkable, a visual programming platform for creating drag-and-drop mobile applications. The activity used a Project-Based Learning (PjBL) approach, enabling students to actively engage in designing simple educational applications that align with their learning context. The method encouraged hands-on exploration, teamwork, critical analysis, and creative thinking. Throughout the training, students not only learned how to navigate the Thunkable platform but also developed functional mobile apps addressing real-life learning challenges. The outcomes of the program showed a marked improvement in students’ digital literacy, problem-solving ability, innovation, and collaboration. Furthermore, students began to view themselves not just as consumers of technology but as producers of meaningful digital solutions. This initiative demonstrates that integrating digital technology with project-based learning can effectively support the implementation of the Pancasila Student Profile, even in remote or underdeveloped areas. It provides evidence that with the right approach and tools, students can be empowered to become digitally literate, creative, and socially responsible individuals who are ready to act as agents of change in the 21st century.

The Strengthening the Pancasila Learner Profile (P5) project is one of the government decisions No. 56/M/2022 related to implementing the Merdeka Curriculum. The P5 programme is structured with a project-based learning approach. SMP Negeri 10 Banjarbaru is one of the schools that actively supports implementing the P5 Programme. This research covers the evaluation of the P5 programme at SMP Negeri 10 Banjarbaru which takes the theme "Entrepreneurship" with the name "Market Day" and the creative dimension as a reference. Evaluation is needed to determine the success of programme implementation. The success of the P5 programme is not sufficiently measured only by the reflection stage but requires a systematic and comprehensive evaluation. This study aimed to determine the programme evaluation process and the success of P5 implementation based on the four aspects of the CIPP evaluation model (Context, Input, Process, Product). A qualitative descriptive approach was used in the research process. The results showed that the P5 programme at SMP Negeri 10 Banjarbaru had been implemented well and was successful overall, and could be continued. However, there are still obstacles such as the lack of participation of students. Therefore, it is suggested that the school provide an understanding of the importance of the P5 programme to students as well as cooperate in establishing communication with parents to support the implementation of the programme in the future. Keywords: Evaluation, Pancasila Students, CIPP Model.

The purpose of this community service is to improve the understanding and competence of teachers at MTs in Teluk Lake District  Jambi City in compiling HOTS questions based on the independent learning curriculum. The implementation method of this community service uses participatory training, with stages of providing a pretest on the HOTS concept, providing training materials and practice in compiling HOTS questions, providing a posttest, and providing an evaluation sheet for the implementation of the training. The data analysis technique uses descriptive statistical techniques using a percentage approach and graphics in presenting data. The partners of this community service are teachers at MTs Muhammadiyah Tajurhalang Bogor. The results of this community service show that MTs in Teluk Lake District  Jambi City teachers have a good conceptual understanding of HOTS questions and increased skills in compiling HOTS questions based on the Independent Learning curriculum, so that they can be practiced in every learning evaluation in the classroom.

This study explores the implementation of the Teaching Assistance Program as part of the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) policy, focusing on the experiences of education students at SMP Negeri 1 Bawolato, a rural secondary school in North Nias, Indonesia. The problem addressed in this study is the limited empirical documentation of MBKM implementation in remote educational settings with constrained infrastructure and unique pedagogical cultures. The primary objective is to investigate how teaching assistance contributes to the development of pedagogical, social, and adaptive competencies among student-teachers. A qualitative descriptive case study approach was applied, involving participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and document analysis. Thematic analysis was used to interpret the data. The findings indicate that the program significantly enhances students' pedagogical skills, including lesson planning, classroom management, and reflective teaching. Collaboration with mentor teachers and contextual adaptation emerged as crucial factors in successful implementation. The program also had a positive impact on student engagement in classrooms. This study contributes to the literature by highlighting the role of experiential learning in bridging theory and practice within teacher education, particularly in underrepresented rural contexts. It also offers recommendations for policy design and curriculum development in teacher training programs. The study concludes that meaningful field experiences, supported by collaborative mentorship and reflective practice, are key to producing competent and adaptive future educators.

This study aims to analyze the ability of students in the Primary School Teacher Education (PGSD) Study Program to develop Lesson Plans (RPP) and implement teaching through microteaching activities. The RPP serves as a crucial tool for prospective teachers in designing a systematic and measurable learning process, while microteaching functions as an effective teaching practice medium to develop students’ pedagogical skills. This research employed a qualitative descriptive method, with data collection techniques including observation, documentation, and interviews with final-year PGSD students enrolled in the microteaching course. The findings reveal that most students were able to develop lesson plans in accordance with the applicable curriculum formats (K13 and Merdeka Curriculum), including formulating learning objectives and outlining the sequence of learning activities. However, weaknesses were still found in formulating learning indicators, selecting appropriate models and methods, and integrating literacy, numeracy, and the elements of the Pancasila Student Profile. In implementing microteaching, students demonstrated mastery of the material and conducted learning activities in a structured manner. Nonetheless, some still faced challenges in classroom management, interactive communication, and the use of media and educational technology. The conclusion of this study indicates that PGSD students’ abilities in preparing lesson plans and conducting microteaching are in the “fairly good” category. However, they still require further guidance and training to be fully prepared as professional educators in the field. It is expected that through continuous evaluation and constructive feedback from lecturers, students can improve the quality of their lesson planning and teaching practices more optimally.