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This study examines the contribution of the PAKEM (Participatory, Active, Creative, and Fun) learning model in fostering students' self-confidence in outlying areas, especially Hoi Village, Oenino District, South Central Timor Regency. The background of the study is the low self-confidence of students due to minimal parental support, social pressure, and geographical and economic challenges that affect the quality of learning. This study aims to identify learning strategies used by teachers to build students' self-confidence and improve their learning achievement. The method used is a qualitative approach through literature studies and interviews with three informants: two elementary school teachers who actively teach and open free tutoring, and one local resident as a direct observer. The results of the study indicate that the implementation of the PAKEM model has a significant impact on increasing students' self-confidence through active, contextual, and fun learning activities. Teachers who are pedagogically sensitive are able to create an inclusive and supportive learning space, so that students feel valued and dare to express themselves. Despite obstacles such as time constraints, variations in student character, and a less than ideal teacher-student ratio, the PAKEM model still provides positive results in building learning motivation and restoring students' self-image. In conclusion, PAKEM is not just a learning method, but a transformative approach that is able to overcome students' psychological barriers and create a strong foundation of self-confidence to support children's academic success and character.

This research aims to comprehensively explore the strategic role of educators in improving the quality of learning at the elementary school level. In the context of basic education, teachers play a central role as agents of change and the main drivers in the learning process. The main focus of this research includes three important aspects, namely the professionalism of teachers in carrying out their duties, the challenges faced in the implementation of teaching and learning activities, and optimization strategies carried out to improve the quality of learning. The research was conducted at SDN 2 Kerso, Jepara Regency, using a descriptive qualitative approach. Data collection techniques include in-depth interviews with educators and principals, direct observations in the classroom, and documentation of learning implementation plans and other supporting activities. The results of the study showed that the teachers in the school applied the practice of professionalism through work discipline, mastery of materials, pedagogical skills, and a humanist approach to students. In addition, they also use learning strategies that are adaptive, creative, and based on student needs. However, in practice, teachers face various challenges, including the diversity of student characters, low learning motivation, the influence of the family environment, limited learning facilities, and the lack of periodic training. To answer these challenges, teachers make various optimization efforts, such as participating in professional training, establishing collaboration between teachers, implementing reflective supervision, and building active communication with parents and the community. Support from school principals, committees, and social environments is also an important factor in supporting learning effectiveness. This study concludes that the improvement of the quality of learning in elementary schools is largely determined by the capacity, commitment, and ability of teachers to manage challenges creatively and professionally. With systemic support and sustainability of competency development, the role of teachers can be significantly optimized to create meaningful, effective, and sustainable learning.

This research investigates the underlying factors that shape the interest of students from the 2024 cohort in enrolling in the Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering Education Program at the Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Negeri Padang. Utilizing a descriptive quantitative methodology, data were gathered through a structured, closed-ended questionnaire administered to the entire cohort, which consisted of 89 students. The analysis reveals that the overall level of student interest is categorized as high, with a notable percentage of 55%. Several key variables were identified as influential: (1) self-awareness factors encompassing physical capabilities, intellectual aptitude, intrinsic motivation, and innate talent were rated in the very high category at 56%; (2) familial influences such as the provision of information, emotional support, and parenting styles also ranked very high at 46%; (3) school-related elements including the accessibility of school information systems, teacher roles, peer dynamics, and hands on learning experiences were classified in the high category with 44%; and (4) social media engagement specifically the frequency of use and the quality of educational content was likewise in the high category, scoring 48%. These findings underscore the multifaceted nature of student decision-making, with self-awareness emerging as the most prominent determinant in shaping academic program choices. The study highlights the need for educational institutions to consider these interrelated dimensions when developing recruitment strategies and academic guidance frameworks.

This study aims to examine the impact of managing physical and social environments on learning quality at RA Baitul Ibadah, Binjai City. Observations were conducted in four classrooms—Awan, Bulan, Bintang, and Pelangi—focusing on spatial arrangement, availability of educational materials, and social interactions. The results show that a flexible, accessible physical environment enriched with educational play tools significantly supports exploration and holistic child development. Moreover, teacher involvement in organizing space and fostering children’s independence strengthens an active and enjoyable learning atmosphere. Each classroom demonstrated unique environmental management strategies, yet all contributed positively to learning outcomes. This study highlights the critical role of planned and responsive learning environments in promoting optimal early childhood development and provides practical recommendations for early childhood institutions in creating child-friendly, educational spaces.

This study aims to improve students' motivation and learning outcomes through the application of the Contextual Teaching and Learning (CTL) approach to fourth-grade students of SD 1 Pecangaan. The background of this study is the low motivation and learning outcomes of students in the conventional learning process that does not relate the material to students' real lives. The research method used is the Classroom Action Research (CAR) model of Kemmis and McTaggart which is carried out in two cycles. The instruments used include observation, learning motivation questionnaires, and learning outcome tests (pretest and posttest). The results of the study showed a significant increase in student motivation and learning outcomes after the application of the CTL approach. Students' learning motivation scores increased from the sufficient category (average 62) to high (average 83). Student learning outcomes also increased from an average pretest score of 63 to an average posttest score of 82, with the percentage of learning completion increasing from 35% to 87%. The CTL approach has proven effective because it is able to create active, meaningful, and relevant learning with students' real experiences. Thus, the application of CTL can be used as a strategic solution in improving the quality of learning in elementary schools. Teachers are expected to be able to implement this approach creatively and sustainably so that learning becomes more contextual and enjoyable for students.

PT Unilever Indonesia’s strategic application is examined through the Balanced Scorecard framework, focusing on four key perspectives: financial, customer, internal business processes, and learning and growth. The analysis reveals that while the company demonstrates strong financial performance, such as high ROI and ROE, challenges like declining annual profits and increasing liabilities signal the need for improved cost management and risk mitigation. Unilever's strategy emphasizes innovation and customer relationships, leveraging Total Quality Management (TQM) and continuous product enhancements. However, internal issues such as employee work culture, inadequate facilities, and employee satisfaction remain significant obstacles to organizational performance. The findings suggest a need for stronger employee engagement and workplace improvements, alongside enhanced financial sustainability strategies. Future research could explore how external factors, such as shifting market trends and government regulations, influence Unilever’s strategic decisions and overall success.

English reading skill is a fundamental skill that is crucial in education, particularly in today's globalized world. However, many Vocational High School (SMK) students still face challenges in comprehending English texts, stemming from limited vocabulary, limited reading strategies, and a lack of contextual learning. This community service activity was conducted at SMK Swasta Islam (SMKSI) Darul Istiqomah Jember to provide students with basic English reading skill training. The training focused on mastering reading strategies such as skimming, scanning, determining topics, identifying main and supporting ideas, and answering questions using WH-Questions. The implementation method included initial observation, material preparation, interactive lectures, practice exercises, and evaluation. The results showed that the training successfully improved students' ability to comprehend English texts more effectively and efficiently. Furthermore, it increased students' motivation and confidence in reading English texts, and provided an initial understanding of functional texts relevant to the world of work. This activity is expected to be a real contribution in improving the quality of vocational high school students' English literacy and supporting their readiness to face the demands of the global workforce.

Educational supervision serves as a key instrument in improving educational quality; however, its implementation in elementary schools often faces systemic challenges that affect teacher performance and learning quality. This study aims to analyze the implementation of educational supervision by school principals to improve the performance of Catholic Religious Education (CRE) teachers in enhancing educational quality at Inpres Natarita Elementary School. The research employs a descriptive qualitative approach with the school principal and CRE teacher as research subjects. Data collection was conducted through in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and documentation. Data analysis used the interactive model of Miles and Huberman with stages of data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing.The findings reveal significant disparities between the implementation of administrative supervision and academic supervision. Administrative supervision is consistently implemented but remains procedural-mechanistic in nature, while academic supervision experiences systematic deficits with minimal frequency (once per semester). This condition impacts the competence-performance gap phenomenon in CRE teacher performance, characterized by the dominance of lecture methods, limited learning innovation, and minimal professional initiative. Educational quality shows acceptable achievement in graduation rates but has not been optimal in potential realization and educational value-added.Educational supervision at SDI Natarita has not achieved optimal effectiveness due to a paradigm that remains compliance-oriented rather than development-oriented. A fundamental reorientation toward holistic and transformative supervision is needed to optimize teacher performance and educational quality.

This study aims to analyze the implementation of audio-visual media in Catholic Religious Education learning to enhance learning motivation among third-grade students at Inpres Jongwolor Elementary School. The research employed a qualitative approach with descriptive design. Research subjects consisted of one Catholic Religious Education teacher and five third-grade students selected purposively. Data were collected through unstructured interviews, participatory observation, and documentation, then analyzed using the Miles and Huberman interactive model. The results indicate that audio-visual media usage in Catholic Religious Education learning remains suboptimal due to limited internet access, high data costs, and insufficient teacher technology competence. However, when implemented, audio-visual media significantly increases learning motivation, reflected in enhanced enthusiasm, interest, attention, and active student participation during learning activities. Audio-visual media proved effective in visualizing abstract concepts of spiritual and moral values, making them more concrete and comprehensible. This research provides empirical evidence that optimizing audio-visual media usage can serve as an effective strategy to improve Catholic Religious Education learning quality at the elementary school level.

This study aims to describe the child-friendly classroom strategies implemented at SD Negeri 5 Bringin and their impact on student well-being. A child-friendly classroom is an educational approach that emphasizes the creation of a safe, comfortable, inclusive, and participatory learning environment, supporting students' emotional and social development optimally. This research employed a descriptive qualitative method with data collection techniques including observation, interviews, and documentation. The research subjects were students directly involved in the implementation of the child-friendly classroom, selected through purposive sampling. The results showed that child-friendly classroom strategies were actively implemented by teachers, involving students in planning and learning activities, and fostering good communication with parents. These strategies positively impacted student well-being, as reflected in increased feelings of safety, self-confidence, emotional regulation, and the quality of social interactions among students in the school environment. This study is expected to serve as a reference for teachers and schools in developing child-friendly learning environments to support students' holistic well-being.

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.

Microteaching is an essential component in preparing students of the Primary School Teacher Education (PGSD) program to become competent professional educators. This study aims to analyze effective strategies for mastering teaching materials during microteaching courses for PGSD students. Optimal mastery of subject matter requires not only a deep understanding of content but also the ability to adapt to the characteristics of primary school students, the use of varied teaching methods, and effective communication skills. This study employs a literature review methodology and analyzes best practices from various educational institutions. The results indicate that strategies for mastering teaching materials in microteaching involve five key dimensions: systematic material preparation through curriculum analysis and in-depth literature study; material organization using a logically structured approach; material presentation with diverse learning models and appropriate media; continuous evaluation using assessment for learning techniques; and self-development through continuous learning and consistent practice. The implementation of this integrated strategy has been proven to increase student confidence, improve the quality of material delivery, and optimize teaching readiness in primary school settings. These findings offer significant contributions to the development of PGSD curricula and the enhancement of the quality of future primary school teachers in Indonesia.

This journal discusses guidance and counseling service models as well as BK support activities to improve the quality of education. This research aims to build an integrated Guidance and Counseling (BK) service model, which combines mediation, consultation and advocacy methods, supported by additional BK activities to improve the quality of education in schools. So far, BK services have largely focused on individual approaches without any integration of strategic functions that can strengthen the entire education ecosystem. The model created in this study is aimed at strengthening the role of guidance and counseling teachers in handling student dynamics and building collaboration with the school, parents and the community. The research methodology uses a Research and Development (R&D) approach which includes needs analysis steps, model design, validation by experts, and limited trials in a secondary school environment. Research findings show that this integrated guidance and counseling service model is feasible to implement and effective in increasing the involvement of all parties in solving student problems and creating a school atmosphere that is more supportive of improving the quality of learning. The impact of this model opens up opportunities to increase the strategic role of guidance and counseling services in the education system as a whole.

Education in Indonesia is facing a number of challenges and issues related to students, reflecting the complexity of the national education system in social, economic, and cultural contexts. Various elements such as inequality in access to education, variations in the quality of facilities, family economic constraints, and socio-cultural differences affect the learning process and growth of students. In addition, internal problems such as low enthusiasm for learning, lack of literacy and numeracy skills, and violence in schools further add to the complexity of education. The purpose of this article is to identify the main problems faced by students in Indonesia, analyze their causes, and develop relevant alternative solutions to improve the quality of education. By utilizing a literature analysis approach and empirical data study, this article highlights the importance of cooperation between all parties, improving teacher capacity, optimizing the role of parents, and implementing inclusive and adaptive education policies. Numerous student-related problems plague Indonesian education, including unequal access to education, insufficient motivation for learning, and social and psychological problems that affect academic achievement. Numerous factors, such as differences in the caliber of teachers, a lack of educational resources, and socioeconomic background, contribute to this situation. All-encompassing solutions are needed for these problems, including improving the curriculum, increasing teacher competency, and implementing a more flexible and inclusive teaching approach that considers the needs of the students. This article discusses the primary issues faced by Indonesian students and offers practical solutions in order to create a more equitable, effective, and sustainable educational system.  

This study investigates the role of transformational leadership of school principals in enhancing the instructional quality of teachers at SMP Negeri 5 Satap Bungoro, Pangkep Regency, Indonesia. The research addresses three main problems: (1) how the principal's transformational leadership contributes to improving teacher performance in the classroom, (2) what strategies or actions the principal undertakes to elevate instructional practices, and (3) what supporting and inhibiting factors influence the process. Using a qualitative approach, data were collected through interviews, observation, and documentation involving the school principal and five teachers. The data were analyzed through data reduction, data display, conclusion drawing, and triangulation techniques. The findings reveal that the principal's transformational leadership plays a critical role in instructional improvement, marked by five key practices: presenting an inspiring leadership vision, encouraging professional growth, providing support and empowerment to teachers, fostering a collaborative and inclusive school culture, and delivering constructive feedback and evaluation. The strategies employed include the integration of the Merdeka Curriculum, mentoring and coaching of teachers, and fostering pedagogical understanding. Supporting factors include well-organized school and classroom environments and cleanliness, while the primary obstacles consist of limited funding, inadequate facilities and infrastructure, and a lack of strong teacher collaboration. In conclusion, transformational leadership contributes significantly to teacher development and improved instructional quality, especially in schools facing resource limitations. The study emphasizes the need for proactive leadership to overcome structural barriers and support effective teaching and learning.

Abstract. In an effort to optimize the understanding of teachers' role learners is essential, such as the use of various learning strategies and methods, effective interactions between teachers and learners are expected to improve the quality of learning and develop the potential of learners. The study uses a descriptive qualitative approach. Descriptive language is used to describe phenomena in detail and accuracy. The purpose of this study is to look at the strategies teachers use, the management of the class includes evaluation and measurement, and the challenges teachers face in efforts to optimize the understanding of learners. The data-gathering technique in this study is an interview. The type of observations used are non-participative observations so that researchers are not involved in the learning process in the classroom. Research shows that in an effort to optimize the various levels of understanding teachers learners implement strategies and good class management. This was shown with the results of the interview with the 4.3 grade teacher.Keywords: Educational comprehension, teacher effort, optimizing

The role of the principal in educational management has undergone significant changes in line with the dynamics of 21st-century needs. Demands for improved learning quality have led to the emergence of a new paradigm that positions the principal not merely as an administrative leader but as a learning leader capable of facilitating a culture of continuous learning within the school environment. This study aims to reflect on and reformulate the principal's strategic role through the integration of two leadership approaches: instructional leadership, which emphasizes strengthening the learning process, and transformational leadership, which focuses on vision, motivation, and empowerment of all school members. The method used is a literature review of 26 national and international scientific articles published in the last ten years. The results of the study indicate that the synthesis of these two leadership models strengthens the principal's capacity to create a collaborative, adaptive school climate oriented toward continuous improvement of educational quality. This research is expected to serve as a conceptual foundation for future school leadership development policies and practices.

Critical thinking skills are a fundamental aspect that needs to be instilled early in the educational process in elementary schools. However, the application of conventional learning media such as textbooks and worksheets tends to be less supportive of the development of these skills, especially in complex materials such as the solar system. To overcome this, the use of solar system diorama media is considered capable of bridging students' conceptual understanding with more contextual visual and exploratory experiences. Through a constructivist approach, students are given space to be actively involved in observing, discussing, and linking materials to real phenomena, so that their critical thinking skills can be honed more optimally. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the use of diorama media in improving the critical thinking skills of elementary school students and examine students' responses to this learning method. The results of this study are expected to contribute to the development of innovative learning strategies that can support the quality of elementary education.

In the rapidly evolving digital era, human resources (HR) are a key factor in facing global challenges and leveraging technological opportunities. Education plays a strategic role in shaping high-quality human resources that are adaptive, innovative, and competitive. This study explores how education, through the enhancement of digital literacy, 21st-century skills, and the use of information technology, significantly contributes to improving HR quality. The transformation of education—covering technology-based curricula, digital learning methods, and vocational training—has become essential in creating a workforce that is ready to compete in the digital age. The discussion concludes that investment in an education system responsive to technological developments will produce superior and highly competitive human capital. Therefore, collaboration between government, educational institutions, and industry sectors is crucial in creating a relevant and sustainable learning ecosystem.

A comfortable classroom environment plays a crucial role in supporting effective learning processes at the elementary school level. This comfort includes physical aspects such as lighting, ventilation, cleanliness, and room arrangement, as well as psychological aspects such as peer relationships, teacher approach, and emotional atmosphere in the classroom. When students feel physically and emotionally comfortable, they tend to be more focused, calm, and ready to absorb learning material. A pleasant environment can create a positive learning experience and foster enthusiasm for school activities. This study aims to examine the influence of classroom environmental comfort on elementary school students’ learning motivation. Using a descriptive approach, data were collected through observations and questionnaires that explored students’ perceptions of their classroom conditions. The results show that the more comfortable students feel in their classroom, the greater their motivation to actively engage in learning activities. A supportive classroom atmosphere is proven to enhance learning spirit, participation, and curiosity. Based on these findings, it is recommended that schools pay closer attention to classroom comfort as part of a broader strategy to improve the quality of education at the elementary level.