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This study explores the role of principal leadership style in shaping the quality of 21st-century teaching skills among elementary school teachers in Indonesia, with particular attention to leadership practices, challenges encountered, and strategies for improvement. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, the research was conducted at SD Negeri 90 Sampulungan, Takalar, South Sulawesi, involving the principal and teachers as participants. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews, direct observations, and documentation to provide a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon. The findings indicate that the principal primarily employed transformational and democratic leadership styles. These approaches motivated teachers by inspiring them with clear visions, serving as role models, and encouraging active participation in decision-making processes. Such leadership practices contributed significantly to teacher engagement and the overall school climate. Teachers, in turn, demonstrated competencies aligned with 21st-century learning demands, particularly through the application of the 4Cs: critical thinking, creativity, communication, and collaboration. They also showed efforts in integrating information and communication technology (ICT) into their teaching practices and implementing interactive classroom management strategies. However, several challenges were identified, including limited availability of facilities, resistance among some teachers toward adopting innovative methods, and the heavy administrative workload that often distracted from instructional focus. To address these issues, the principal implemented various strategies such as organizing continuous professional development training, providing close supervision and mentoring, and offering motivational support to sustain teacher commitment. Overall, the study emphasizes the crucial role of transformational leadership in strengthening teachers’ 21st-century skills and offers practical implications for educational policy development, while also recommending future studies across broader school contexts in Indonesia.

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.  

The Independent Entrepreneurship Program is one of the strategic efforts of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology in fostering the entrepreneurial spirit of students through direct experiential learning. This program is present as a forum for students to not only understand entrepreneurship theory, but also to practice in real life the process of building and managing a business. In its implementation, the program involves active collaboration between universities, industry mentors, and field supervisors who play a role in providing direction, guidance, and evaluation of student business development. Through Independent Entrepreneurship, students are given the opportunity to design creative business ideas, run a business on a real scale, and solve various entrepreneurial challenges they face. This activity not only trains managerial, communication, and innovation skills, but also improves critical thinking and problem-solving skills. In addition, students gain valuable experience in terms of teamwork, financial management, marketing strategies, building business networks, and the use of digital technology to support business sustainability. The results of the program implementation show positive impacts, including increased confidence, independence, and students' understanding of the real business world. Furthermore, this program encourages the creation of an entrepreneurial ecosystem in a sustainable campus environment and is able to be the forerunner of the birth of a young generation of Indonesian entrepreneurs who are resilient, innovative, creative, adaptive to changing times, and have high competitiveness. Thus, Independent Entrepreneurship not only plays a role as a skill development program, but also becomes one of the important foundations in preparing students to face the world of work and becoming independent business actors who are professional, visionary, sustainability-oriented, and make a real contribution to the nation's economic development.

This study aims to assess the impact of using Talking Stick game as a learning media on students' learning outcomes and scientific communication skills in science lessons. This study was conducted using the Systematic Literature Review (SLR) method, by analyzing various relevant previous studies from elementary to secondary education levels. The research findings indicate that the Talking Stick learning technique can significantly improve student learning outcomes. This model has also been proven effective in improving science communication skills, conceptual understanding, active participation, and students' courage to express opinions during the learning process. The Talking Stick method emphasizes collaboration and involvement between students in a fun and interesting atmosphere. The use of various supporting media, such as question cards, posters, audio visuals, and student worksheets (LKS), increases the effectiveness of this method. The use of alternating sticks in question and answer sessions encourages students to be more confident and actively involved in the learning process. This also provides benefits for the development of students' critical thinking skills and emotional skills, which are very much in line with the needs of learning in the 21st century. The findings of this Talking Stick model research are recommended as an innovative strategy in science learning. Teachers are advised to combine it with interesting learning media to make the learning process more meaningful and enjoyable. tested the effectiveness of this method in various educational conditions. Furthermore, consistent application of the Talking Stick method can create an inclusive learning environment that is responsive to individual student needs. In the context of science learning, which often demands understanding of abstract concepts and problem-solving, this method can bridge the gap between theory and practice through active and reflective interaction.

Deep learning is a learning approach that emphasizes in-depth understanding of concepts and the development of critical, creative, collaborative, and communicative thinking skills. Although this approach aligns with the demands of a competency-based curriculum, its implementation at the elementary school level still faces various challenges. Based on a preliminary survey, 65% of elementary school teachers in partner schools admitted to experiencing difficulties in implementing deep learning effectively in the classroom. This study aims to identify innovative strategies that can improve teacher competency through a structured training program. The training activities involved 120 teachers from 10 elementary schools who are members of the teacher working group (KKG), with a focus on mastery of deep learning concepts, the application of interactive learning methods, and the use of educational technology. The training method was implemented continuously using a blended learning approach, including face-to-face sessions, practical workshops, mentoring, and the use of digital learning platforms. Evaluation results showed that 80% of training participants experienced significant improvements in their understanding of deep learning concepts, 70% were able to integrate interactive learning strategies into the teaching process, and 60% actively utilized learning technology to enrich students' learning experiences. These findings confirm that ongoing training integrated with technology support can improve teachers' capacity to implement deep learning in the classroom. Furthermore, the program's success is also influenced by intensive mentoring and collaboration among teachers through the Teacher Working Group (KKG). The implications of this research point to the need for educational policies at the elementary school level that encourage systematic, sustainable, and technology-based teacher professional development programs. Thus, the implementation of deep learning can be optimized to support the achievement of competency-based curriculum objectives and improve the overall quality of education

Deep learning is a learning approach that emphasizes in-depth understanding of concepts and the development of critical, creative, collaborative, and communicative thinking skills. Although this approach aligns with the demands of a competency-based curriculum, its implementation at the elementary school level still faces various challenges. Based on a preliminary survey, 65% of elementary school teachers in partner schools admitted to experiencing difficulties in implementing deep learning effectively in the classroom. This study aims to identify innovative strategies that can improve teacher competency through a structured training program. The training activities involved 120 teachers from 10 elementary schools who are members of the teacher working group (KKG), with a focus on mastery of deep learning concepts, the application of interactive learning methods, and the use of educational technology. The training method was implemented continuously using a blended learning approach, including face-to-face sessions, practical workshops, mentoring, and the use of digital learning platforms. Evaluation results showed that 80% of training participants experienced significant improvements in their understanding of deep learning concepts, 70% were able to integrate interactive learning strategies into the teaching process, and 60% actively utilized learning technology to enrich students' learning experiences. These findings confirm that ongoing training integrated with technology support can improve teachers' capacity to implement deep learning in the classroom. Furthermore, the program's success is also influenced by intensive mentoring and collaboration among teachers through the Teacher Working Group (KKG). The implications of this research point to the need for educational policies at the elementary school level that encourage systematic, sustainable, and technology-based teacher professional development programs. Thus, the implementation of deep learning can be optimized to support the achievement of competency-based curriculum objectives and improve the overall quality of education

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.

This study aims to explore students' perceptions of creating digital video projects as a tool for teaching and improving speaking abilities. A descriptive qualitative research design was applied, involving 50 students enrolled in the Intermediate English course during the second semester of the Machine Automotive Study Programme at Politeknik Negeri Jember. Data collection techniques included questionnaires distributed via Google Forms, consisting of multiple-choice and open-ended questions, complemented by semi-structured interviews to gain deeper insights. The focus was on understanding how students perceive the effectiveness of digital video projects in enhancing their speaking skills and overall language learning experience. The findings revealed that most students had a positive attitude toward creating digital video projects, stating that such activities significantly enhanced their confidence, fluency, and pronunciation in English. Many participants emphasized that digital video projects encouraged them to practice speaking repeatedly, which contributed to reducing anxiety and improving their performance. The study also found a clear connection between students' intrinsic motivation to improve their speaking skills and the perceived benefits of completing digital video tasks. Additionally, students highlighted the creative aspect of video-making, which fostered collaboration, critical thinking, and self-expression. The role of the lecturer was identified as crucial in guiding students throughout the project, particularly in overcoming technical and linguistic challenges. The study concludes that integrating digital video projects into speaking lessons not only improves speaking ability but also motivates learners to take active participation in language learning.

Education is a conscious and structured effort aimed at creating an environment and process that actively facilitates learners in developing their full potential. This includes nurturing their spiritual and moral values, self-control, intelligence, strong character, and essential life skills required for personal development and meaningful contributions to society, the nation, and the global community. At its core, education serves to empower students to realize and utilize their capabilities for future life challenges. It acts as a foundational medium through which younger generations acquire essential life skills, enabling them to integrate effectively into society. Moreover, education plays a pivotal role not only in the personal growth of individuals but also in the advancement of a nation. High-quality education is defined by its capacity to equip students with the competence to confront and resolve real-world problems. This notion becomes increasingly critical as learners transition from academic settings to the workforce and community life, where they are expected to apply their knowledge and skills practically. However, the success or failure of educational outcomes is largely determined by the curriculum. A well-designed curriculum should cultivate critical awareness and empower students to navigate complex social and professional environments. It should also promote creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration, which are essential skills in today’s rapidly changing world. Furthermore, education should not be viewed merely as a means to acquire knowledge but as a holistic process that fosters emotional intelligence and social responsibility. By integrating various disciplines and encouraging interdisciplinary learning, education can help students develop a broader perspective on global issues, such as climate change, social justice, and economic inequality. In addition, the role of educators is crucial in this process.  

In today's digital era, technology plays a crucial role in supporting innovative, interactive, and engaging learning processes. Education is no longer limited to the use of conventional textbooks and whiteboards, but has been transformed through the integration of various digital media. In this context, digital literacy has become a key competency that students must possess. Digital literacy encompasses not only the ability to access and understand information from various digital sources but also involves critical thinking and collaborative skills, as well as the wise, ethical, and responsible use of technology. Studies show that the appropriate and targeted use of digital media can increase students' interest in reading materials and other learning activities. Interactive and visually appealing digital media can stimulate students' curiosity, enrich the learning experience, and increase their motivation. Furthermore, the use of digital technology also provides opportunities to develop creativity, communication skills, and problem-solving skills. Technology-based learning enables more effective learning differentiation, allowing students to learn at their own pace and learning style. This is highly relevant in the context of 21st-century education, which demands information literacy, technology literacy, and media literacy. As learning facilitators, teachers are required not only to be proficient in using technology but also to design learning that integrates curriculum content with available digital potential. Therefore, optimal use of digital technology can be a strategic solution in creating a generation that is digitally literate, creative, innovative, and able to adapt to increasingly dynamic and complex developments. To achieve this goal, collaboration between schools, the government, and parents is essential in providing adequate access to and training in sustainable educational technology.

. This Classroom Action Research aims to improve students' understanding of map material in social science lessons using the Mind Map learning model. The research was conducted at SD Negeri 1 Damarjati with fifth-grade students as the subjects. The research consisted of two cycles, each comprising planning, action, observation, and reflection stages. The methods used to collect data were tests, observations, interviews, and documentation. In the pre-cycle, students demonstrated a limited understanding of map material, as reflected in both their test scores and classroom participation. The findings revealed a notable increase in students' comprehension after the implementation of the Mind Map learning model. The average class score rose from 56.1 in the pre-cycle to 70.8 in Cycle I, and further increased to 84.5 in Cycle II. Moreover, the percentage of students achieving the minimum mastery criteria (KKM) also improved significantly—from 30% in the pre-cycle to 56.6% in Cycle I, and then to 90% in Cycle II. The improvement was not only in academic achievement but also in learning enthusiasm, student engagement, and the ability to recall and connect concepts. The Mind Map learning model helped students better visualize the relationship between different elements of the subject matter, which enhanced both individual and group learning. Additionally, classroom observations indicated that students became more active in discussions and showed better collaboration with peers. These results indicate that the implementation of the Mind Map learning model not only enhances cognitive engagement and visual comprehension but also fosters students’ participation and collaborative learning environments. Thus, it can be concluded that the Mind Map learning model is an effective, student-centered method to improve understanding of map material in elementary schools.

This study aims to examine the optimization of the field trip method in improving elementary school students' understanding of social and cultural diversity. The background of this study is based on the need for a learning approach that is not only informative, but also contextual and participatory, considering the importance of instilling the values ​​of tolerance and multiculturalism from an early age. This study uses a descriptive qualitative method based on literature studies, by reviewing various sources of literature such as journal articles, academic books, and relevant digital documents. The results of the study show that the field trip method makes a significant contribution to contextual learning, especially in socio-cultural material. This activity encourages students to experience diversity in society firsthand, develop empathy, tolerance, and strengthen 21st century skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, and communication. However, optimizing this method requires systematic planning, support from various parties, and innovation in integrating technology and project-based approaches. Therefore, the field trip method has great potential if applied in a structured manner in the learning process in elementary schools. This study recommends that schools and teachers actively develop field trip programs that are integrated with the curriculum and based on real experiences.

The 21st century has brought significant challenges and transformations to the world of education, demanding a curriculum that integrates critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication skills (4C), as well as digital literacy and ethical responsibility. This study aims to explore a contextual curriculum design for Christian Religious Education (PAK) that is relevant to the holistic development of students in today's era. Using a qualitative descriptive method based on literature review, the research analyzes theoretical concepts and previous studies related to contextual and character-based Christian education. The findings show that a transformative and contextual PAK curriculum must address not only the cognitive dimension but also affective and psychomotor aspects, rooted in real-life experiences and local cultural contexts. The role of teachers as facilitators, curriculum designers, and role models is central to effective implementation. This study provides implications for curriculum development policies, teacher training, and further research in applied classroom settings.

This study aims to describe the implementation of the Focus Group Discussion (FGD) method in Islamic Religious Education (PAI) learning and its impact on improving critical thinking skills of grade VIII students at SMP Entrepreneur Ar-Ridwan Gunung Tawang Selomerto Wonosobo. The background of this study is based on the needs of 21st century learning that requires students to have critical, collaborative, and communicative thinking skills. This study uses a qualitative approach with a descriptive research type. Data collection techniques are carried out through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. Data analysis uses data reduction techniques, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. The results of the study indicate that the FGD method has been implemented systematically in PAI learning through the formation of small discussion groups, trigger questions, and presentation of discussion results. The teacher acts as an active facilitator who encourages student participation evenly. The positive impacts of the implementation of FGD include increased active student participation, the ability to convey arguments logically, and the growth of reflective and critical attitudes. However, the implementation of FGD also faces several obstacles such as time constraints, differences in communication skills, and the unequal distribution of student confidence in open discussions. These obstacles are overcome through classroom management strategies such as role rotation, providing discussion training, and habituating a culture of dialogue. Thus, the FGD method has proven effective in improving students' critical thinking skills and forming a collaborative and participatory learning culture.

This study aims to examine the use of Macaulay2 software in improving students' computational thinking skills in mathematics learning, especially in abstract algebra material. Macaulay2 as an open-source Computer Algebra Sistem (CAS) provides a symbolic and algorithmic environment that encourages logical and systematic exploration of mathematical concepts. Literature reviews show that the use of Macaulay2 can strengthen conceptual understanding, train computational thinking, and introduce mathematical programming to students. However, technical challenges, limited Indonesian language teaching materials, and limited educational infrastructure are obstacles that need to be overcome through collaboration between educational stakeholders.

Pancasila Education is a compulsory subject taught at every level of education, from elementary to higher education, with the aim of shaping students’ attitudes and behaviors based on the values of Pancasila in their daily lives. This study aims to describe the teacher's strategies in implementing the Problem Based Learning (PBL) model to enhance students' critical thinking skills in the Pancasila Education subject for fourth-grade students at SD Negeri 5 Penatih. The research focuses on three main aspects: (1) the implementation of PBL by teachers in improving students’ critical thinking in the topic "Pancasila as the Foundation of My Country", (2) the supporting and inhibiting factors in applying the PBL model, and (3) the implications of PBL implementation on the learning process and outcomes. This study employs a qualitative approach with data collection techniques including observation, interviews, and documentation. The findings reveal that the teacher’s strategy in applying PBL involves three key stages: planning (designing contextual and relevant problems), implementation (the teacher acting as a facilitator during group discussions), and evaluation (assessing students’ thinking processes). Supporting factors for the successful application of PBL include teacher competence, student motivation, a conducive learning environment, and curriculum support. On the other hand, limited instructional time and low student participation present challenges that need to be addressed. The implications of PBL implementation include enhanced critical thinking skills, improved collaboration abilities, and the development of student character as reflective, open-minded, and responsible individuals. Learning becomes more engaging, meaningful, and interactive as students are actively involved in solving real-life problems related to their everyday experiences.

The development of information technology encourages innovation in learning methods, one of which is through digital educational games. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of Wordwall educational game-based learning media in improving elementary school students' 21st century skills, such as critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication. The method used is a literature study by analyzing various scientific sources and relevant research. The results showed that Wordwall is able to increase students' motivation and interest in learning through interactive features and a variety of games that are easily adapted to the subject matter. Obstacles faced include limited access to technology and teacher readiness, which can be overcome with intensive training and provision of adequate facilities. Therefore, Wordwall is proven to be effective and relevant as a learning media that supports the 21st century learning process in elementary schools. It is recommended that the utilization of Wordwall be optimized through continuous training for teachers and provision of adequate technological facilities to improve the quality of learning.

This study explores the integration of musical drama as a medium to strengthen computational thinking (CT) among high school students in Jakarta. Computational thinking, a critical 21st-century skill, involves problem-solving through decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction, and algorithmic thinking. Despite its importance, CT remains underutilized in art education. This research employs a Research and Development (R&D) approach using the ADDIE model (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, Evaluation) to design and implement a project-based learning (PjBL) framework centered on musical drama. The study involved 35 grade XI students who participated in an 8-week musical drama project, divided into creative teams to handle various production aspects. Observations, interviews, and documentation revealed that students effectively applied CT components: decomposing tasks, recognizing patterns in performance elements, simplifying complex narratives (abstraction), and organizing systematic workflows (algorithmic thinking). Results indicated significant improvements in students' logical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and confidence. The study highlights the effectiveness of musical drama as an interdisciplinary tool to enhance CT skills while fostering emotional engagement and character development. It also underscores the teacher's role as a facilitator in promoting reflective and participatory learning. The findings align with prior research on PjBL and CT, suggesting broader applicability in art education. Future research could extend this model to basic education or incorporate digital technologies.

This conceptual study examines the implementation of the Project-Based Learning (PBL) model, supported by digital media tools such as Simplebooklet and Canva, in Social Studies learning for sixth-grade students at SDN 1 Bangoan. The study arises from the need for contextual, engaging, and student-centred learning as a response to the typically theoretical and less interactive nature of Social Studies instruction. Through the integration of digital media, students can engage in meaningful projects that foster critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and digital literacy. The learning process includes stages such as problem formulation, project planning, product development, and reflection. This study presents a conceptual overview showing that implementing the PjBL model with the support of Simplebooklet and Canva can enhance student engagement and strengthen understanding of the subject matter.

The improvement of primary education quality has become a major focus in modern education. This study employs a literature review method to explore the application of the Project-Based Learning (PJBL) model in enhancing creativity and learning outcomes among elementary school students. The findings from various studies indicate that PJBL fosters critical and creative thinking, engages students actively, and promotes effective collaboration and communication. Furthermore, PJBL has proven to significantly improve learning outcomes by integrating real-world problem-solving with academic knowledge. This research concludes that PJBL is an effective, interactive, and innovative approach to create meaningful learning experiences. Recommendations include equipping teachers with proper training and resources to implement PJBL successfully in elementary.