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The quality of Catholic Religious Education learning is an important aspect in shaping students’ faith, character, knowledge, and religious life skills. However, the learning process at SMK Negeri 1 Talibura still faces various challenges, particularly in the areas of spiritual attitudes, social attitudes, Catholic religious knowledge, and religious life skills. This study aims to describe the implementation of the Independent Learning Curriculum (Merdeka Belajar Curriculum) and its contribution to improving the quality of Catholic Religious Education learning at SMK Negeri 1 Talibura. The research employed a qualitative approach with a descriptive research design. Data were collected through observations, interviews, and documentation involving the principal, Catholic Religious Education teachers, students, and parents. Data analysis was conducted through data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results show that the implementation of the Independent Learning Curriculum has been carried out effectively through learning planning, learning implementation, learning assessment, and the Pancasila Student Profile Strengthening Project (P5). This implementation has had a positive impact on the learning process, outputs, and outcomes. Students demonstrated improvements in spiritual attitudes, social attitudes, Catholic religious knowledge, and religious life skills, as well as positive behavioral changes in their daily lives. The findings imply that the Independent Learning Curriculum can serve as an effective strategy for improving the quality of Catholic Religious Education learning in a holistic manner.

The Merdeka Curriculum introduces a paradigm shift in Indonesia's educational assessment system, moving from an outcome-oriented approach toward one that positions evaluation as an integral part of the learning process itself. This article examines how learning evaluation is implemented as an instrument to improve the quality of student learning within the Merdeka Curriculum framework. This study employs a library research method, analyzing relevant policy documents, regulations, and academic literature. The findings indicate that the Merdeka Curriculum shifts the focus of evaluation from mere measurement (assessment of learning) toward assessment as learning and assessment for learning, realized through three main forms of assessment: diagnostic, formative, and summative. Proper implementation of these three forms enables teachers to map students' individual learning needs, provide continuous feedback, and design differentiated instruction that is more relevant to learners' characteristics. However, field implementation still faces several challenges, including uneven teacher understanding, time constraints, and limited technical training in designing authentic assessment instruments. This article recommends strengthening teacher competence, providing practical technical guidance, and offering continuous mentoring as strategic steps to ensure that learning evaluation truly functions as an instrument for improving learning quality, rather than merely an administrative formality.

Guru di sekolah dasar Tahfidz sering kali menghadapi tantangan besar dalam mengintegrasikan pengajaran Al-Qur’an dengan kemampuan pedagogik modern yang mendukung pembelajaran aktif. Kegiatan Pengabdian kepada Masyarakat (PKM) ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan kompetensi pedagogik dan profesional para guru di SD Tahfidz Ibnu Umar Karawang melalui pelatihan metode pengajaran yang bermakna dan inovatif. Permasalahan utama yang ditemukan di mitra sasaran adalah keterbatasan guru dalam menerapkan pendekatan PAIKEM serta kesulitan dalam menyusun perangkat ajar yang adaptif terhadap prinsip Kurikulum Merdeka. Metode yang digunakan dalam kegiatan ini adalah kombinasi ceramah interaktif, workshop penyusunan modul/RPP, dan praktik langsung melalui sesi microteaching. Pelatihan dilaksanakan dalam tiga sesi utama: (1) pemahaman karakteristik peserta didik usia 7–12 tahun berdasarkan aspek kognitif, sosial-emosional, dan psikomotorik; (2) desain pembelajaran bermakna (meaningful learning); serta (3) strategi pembelajaran aktif seperti Problem-Based Learning (PBL), Discovery Learning, dan pembelajaran kooperatif. Hasil kegiatan menunjukkan adanya peningkatan pemahaman 15 guru peserta dalam menciptakan lingkungan belajar yang berpusat pada siswa (student-centered) serta kemampuan mengintegrasikan teknologi pembelajaran modern (IPTEKS) seperti Canva dan media interaktif dalam proses KBM. Luaran dari program ini mencakup modul pelatihan pedagogik, publikasi artikel ilmiah, dan video diseminasi hasil implementasi metode pembelajaran.

Biology learning in Indonesia is still predominantly teacher-centered, limiting students’ opportunities to actively develop critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and other 21st-century competencies. Students often receive information passively, resulting in low engagement and limited ability to apply concepts in real-life contexts. Therefore, innovative learning models are needed to support more meaningful and student-centered learning. This study aims to review the implementation of Project-Based Learning (PjBL) in Biology education and analyze its contribution to the development of students’ 21st-century skills. The study employed a literature review method by analyzing 20 research articles published between 2022 and 2026. Articles were obtained through Google Scholar searches and selected based on relevance to Biology education, focus on PjBL implementation, and open-access availability. Data collection involved identification, screening, selection, and documentation of related studies, while data analysis used a qualitative descriptive approach. The findings indicate that PjBL effectively improves students’ cognitive achievement, conceptual understanding, scientific literacy, creativity, and critical thinking skills. In addition, PjBL enhances collaboration, communication, problem-solving abilities, learning motivation, and life skills through contextual and authentic project activities. Students become more actively involved in investigating real-world problems, designing solutions, and producing meaningful learning outputs. Furthermore, the integration of STEM approaches, digital media, blended learning, and Culturally Responsive Teaching (CRT) strengthens the effectiveness of PjBL in Biology learning. Overall, PjBL is highly relevant for supporting the Merdeka Curriculum and improving the quality of Biology education in developing 21st-century competencies.

Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) is a new policy that aims to improve student’s soft skills and hard skills before entering the workforce. The purpose of this study was to explore the perceptions od Universitas Andalas students participating in MBKM on the development of soft skills. This research was conducted using qualitative research methods with grounded theory design. The sampling technique used purposive sampling and obtained 18 informants from 14 faculties at Universitas Andalas. Data were obtained through focus group discussions with informants who had signed an informed consent sheet. The results showed that the perceptions of students who participated in MBKM activities could develop student’s soft skills. Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka program has a positive impact on improving the ability of solve problems, critical thinking, communication, team work, creativity, time management, and leadership. Obstacles that students get when participating in MBKM activities and can hinder the development of soft skills include information discrepancies, difficulty converting credits, lack of socialization to students, unsynchronized technical guidelines, and limited use of language.

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

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

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

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

Traditional snack micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Indonesia face increasing market competition and rapidly changing consumer preferences, particularly among younger consumers seeking innovative and symbolic food experiences. This community engagement study aims to strengthen the profitability and sustainability of traditional snack MSMEs by integrating local flavor innovation with simple business governance practices. Using a participatory action research approach under the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) program in Palangka Raya, this study involved co-creation between students and local entrepreneurs in product development, production standardization, and basic financial management. Qualitative data were collected through participatory observation and stakeholder discussions, while quantitative data were obtained from sales records and simple financial reports. The results demonstrate that local flavor-based innovation, combined with standardized operating procedures and cost control mechanisms, improved product differentiation, operational efficiency, and financial performance. The intervention generated a positive net profit and strengthened the partner’s capacity for independent business management. This study contributes to the literature by positioning traditional food MSMEs as sites of cultural innovation and micro-governance, while supporting Sustainable Development Goals related to inclusive economic growth, cultural preservation, and responsible production.

In the era of globalization and technological advancement, education must transform to develop students who are adaptive, critical, and have strong character. One innovation introduced by the government is the Merdeka Belajar (Independent Learning) Curriculum, which emphasizes competency, character, and project-based learning. This study aims to determine the effect of implementing the Merdeka Curriculum on the learning outcomes of Pancasila Education for Grade XI students at SMAN 1 Petir in the 2024/2025 academic year. A quantitative method with a survey approach was used, involving 80 student respondents. Data were collected through questionnaires and learning outcome tests, and analyzed using correlation and regression statistical techniques. The results show that the Merdeka Curriculum has a significant and positive effect on students’ PPkN learning outcomes, with a correlation coefficient of 0.766. This means better implementation of the curriculum leads to better student achievement. The curriculum contributes 58.7% to the learning outcomes, while the remaining 41.3% is influenced by other factors. The study concludes that the Merdeka Curriculum effectively enhances learning outcomes, particularly in character and 21st-century skills development.

This study aims to describe the difficulties faced by Geography teachers at SMAN 1 Sunggal in identifying students' learning potential and interests during the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum. The research uses a descriptive qualitative approach with primary data consisting of in-depth interviews and non-participant observation of two experienced Geography teachers. The research findings indicate that teachers face major constraints, including limited time for formal diagnostic assessments, a lack of practical training on diagnostic assessments, a large number of students making individual observation difficult, and the absence of adequate assessment instruments. The teacher's efforts to overcome these difficulties include a personal approach to students, behavioral observation, and varied teaching methods, although these are not yet optimal in supporting differentiated learning. This research provides important recommendations for the development of teacher training and school policies to more effectively support the assessment of student potential and interests within the context of the Merdeka Curriculum.

This study aims to explore Al-Syarqawi’s concept of learning motivation and its relevance to the development of students’ interest in learning within the framework of modern Islamic education. The research adopts a qualitative approach with a library research method and applies content analysis to Al-Ta’allum: Al-Nadhariyat wa Al-Tatbiqiyyah and other relevant references. The results show that Al-Syarqawi places motivation as a fundamental condition that determines the continuity and success of the learning process. Motivation, both intrinsic and extrinsic, covers spiritual, psychological, social, and biological dimensions that guide students toward meaningful learning experiences. Al-Syarqawi emphasizes that spiritual motivation should be integrated into the educational process to create balance between intellectual development and moral-spiritual growth. His thought remains relevant to holistic and character-based education, especially in the context of the Merdeka Curriculum, which promotes student independence, creativity, and moral responsibility. Thus, this study contributes to enriching Islamic educational thought by providing an integrative perspective that harmonizes spiritual, psychological, and pedagogical values to enhance students’ motivation and learning engagement.

Analysis Of Student Learning Outcomes In The Implementation Of The Merdeka Currikulum In IPAS Learning For Grade IV Students At SDK Manumuti” aims to examine: (1) The Learning Planning in grade IV SDK Manumuti using teaching tools provided by the ministry of education and culture; (2) The Implementation of IPAS learning in grade IV based on the merdeka curriculum at SDK Manumuti; and (3) The Evaluation of IPAS learning in grade IV using the merdeka curriculum. This study employed field research with a qualitative approach. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and dokumentation, using both primary and secondary data sources. Data analysis techniques included data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings show that: (1) Lesson Planning in grade IV SDK Manumuti has been carried out using the teaching materials provided by the ministry of education and culture; (2) The Implementation of IPAS learning is conducted properly in accordance with the designed teaching modules, consisting of initial activities, core activities, and closing activities; and (3) The Evaluation of learning in Grade IV SDK Manumuti refers to assessments provited by the ministry of education and culture, using formative assessments in each lesson. However, not all assessment have been implemented, particulary the diagnostic assessment which assesessment which has not yet been applied in every leasson.

This study explores the epistemological foundation of Islamic education in the context of the Merdeka Curriculum implementation in Indonesia. The research aims to analyze how Islamic epistemology—which integrates revelation, reason, and experience—can be harmonized with the principles of independent learning that emphasize flexibility, contextual understanding, and character development. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, this study collects data through literature review and content analysis of relevant academic works and policy documents. The findings show that the integration of Islamic epistemology provides a philosophical framework that strengthens the spiritual and moral dimensions of education while maintaining academic autonomy. The implications highlight the importance of teachers’ capacity, curriculum adaptation, and policy support to ensure that the Merdeka Curriculum remains grounded in Islamic educational values. This study contributes to the discourse on contemporary Islamic education by proposing an integrative model that aligns faith-based knowledge with modern educational paradigms.  

The Merdeka Curriculum implemented in various schools in Indonesia aims to provide flexibility in learning, where students can learn according to their individual needs, interests, and pace. One of the challenges in implementing this curriculum is how to effectively identify classroom activity and student discipline. SD Islamiyah, as a school that implements the Merdeka Curriculum, also faces challenges in understanding variations in student classroom activity and discipline. Some students are able to learn in a disciplined manner with little guidance, while others require more intensive support from teachers. Therefore, a system is needed that can group student data more systematically so that teachers can develop teaching strategies that suit the needs of each group of students. One algorithm that can be used in data grouping is k-means clustering. The K-Means algorithm is a non-hierarchical algorithm derived from the data clustering method. The K-Means algorithm begins with the formation of cluster partitions at the beginning, then iteratively refines these cluster partitions until there are no significant changes in the cluster partitions. The K-Means method partitions data into groups so that data with similar characteristics are placed in the same group and data with different characteristics are grouped into other groups. This method can help group students more accurately based on their Class Activity and Discipline. From the results of the analysis, it was concluded that the student data group with Class Activity was Moderately Active Students, with Discipline being Disciplined, and an average score of 71-80.

This article examines the development of students' digital competencies through the Merdeka Belajar – Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) Internship Program at the Regional Civil Service Agency (BKD) Office of Central Kalimantan Province. The MBKM policy aims to improve student competencies through flexible learning outside the campus, including internships that bridge the academic theory of the Islamic Education Management Study Program with workplace practices. The research method used a task-based participatory approach over a period of 4 months (July-November 2023), with intensive guidance from BKD staff and academic advisors, focusing on documenting routine activities, multimedia editing, and content production for social media. The results show that students successfully documented 12 morning assemblies, 8 morning exercises, and more than 15 BKD Head events, as well as educational content such as the “ASN Berakhlak” series published on Instagram @bkdprovkalteng, increasing the engagement rate through editing with Canva. The discussion emphasized the effectiveness of link and match in developing digital skills, creativity, and resilience, supported by relevant research references. The conclusion stated that this program was effective in preparing graduates for work, with recommendations for expanding digital ethics training and broader collaboration. This article contributes to the understanding of MBKM practices in local government agencies.

This training activity aims to strengthen the work competency of vocational students in the hospitality industry, particularly in the restaurant service aspect. The training was held on May 23, 2025, at the Bina Darma Hotel, Palembang, involving students from the Hospitality and Culinary Arts Study Program at the Prasetiya Mandiri Polytechnic, Palembang. The methods used were experiential learning and industry-based training, which emphasize learning through direct experience in a real work environment and reflection on the practices carried out. During the training, students were actively involved in restaurant service activities, from welcoming guests and serving food and drinks, to implementing work ethics and professional communication. Evaluation results showed a significant improvement in the students' service skills, communication skills, and work attitudes. In addition to providing benefits to the students, this activity also provides benefits to the hotel in the form of additional staff support in service and potential long-term collaborations. Overall, this training is in line with the Merdeka Belajar-Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) policy that encourages project-based learning and industry partnerships, and has proven effective in increasing employability skills and strengthening the synergy between the world of vocational education and the world of work.

This training activity aims to strengthen the work competency of vocational students in the hospitality industry, particularly in the restaurant service aspect. The training was held on May 23, 2025, at the Bina Darma Hotel, Palembang, involving students from the Hospitality and Culinary Arts Study Program at the Prasetiya Mandiri Polytechnic, Palembang. The methods used were experiential learning and industry-based training, which emphasize learning through direct experience in a real work environment and reflection on the practices carried out. During the training, students were actively involved in restaurant service activities, from welcoming guests and serving food and drinks, to implementing work ethics and professional communication. Evaluation results showed a significant improvement in the students' service skills, communication skills, and work attitudes. In addition to providing benefits to the students, this activity also provides benefits to the hotel in the form of additional staff support in service and potential long-term collaborations. Overall, this training is in line with the Merdeka Belajar-Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) policy that encourages project-based learning and industry partnerships, and has proven effective in increasing employability skills and strengthening the synergy between the world of vocational education and the world of work.

Community empowerment is an important pillar in social development in Indonesia. This article discusses the implementation of the Merdeka Belajar-Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) Program by students of the Christian Leadership Study Program, Faculty of Theology, Tarutung State Christian Institute in Hutaraja Simanungkalit Village, Sipoholon District, North Tapanuli Regency. This activity focuses on spiritual and social development, through a literacy mentoring program for children and support for the elderly. The research method used is a qualitative descriptive approach with a collaborative participatory method, which allows active interaction between students and the community. Data collection was carried out through observation, informal interviews, and documentation of activities. The evaluation results showed that the program succeeded in improving children's basic literacy skills and providing emotional support for the elderly, as well as strengthening social relationships in the community. Through this experience, students developed social skills and empathy, while the community felt the positive impact of student involvement. This article emphasizes the importance of collaboration between the academic world and local communities in realizing effective and sustainable empowerment.