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The evaluation of Indonesian language instruction at the junior secondary level remains predominantly oriented toward lower-order thinking skills, thereby constraining the advancement of students’Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS). This situation necessitates the development of comprehensive assessment tools that are coherently aligned with the Merdeka Curriculum. The present study introduces a model for constructing HOTS-oriented assessment instruments targeting procedural text writing in Phase D. The development process was systematically organized through several stages: translating learning outcomes into measurable indicators, preparing assessment blueprints, creating item cards, formulating scoring rubrics for attitudes, knowledge, and skills, and finally analyzing and interpreting the assessment data. These instruments were specifically designed to capture students’ analytical, evaluative, and creative abilities in producing procedural texts that are logical, coherent, and effective. Findings demonstrate that the instruments provide an objective and holistic representation of students’ competency attainment. In summary, the proposed HOTS-based assessment model for procedural text writing is practical, methodical, and contextually relevant, serving as a valuable framework for evaluating Indonesian language learning in accordance with the Merdeka Curriculum principles.

This study aims to analyze the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum in Fiqh subjects and how its application affects the improvement of students' understanding. Using the library research method, this study reviews various recent literature in the form of scientific articles, accredited journals, academic books, and relevant policy documents. The results of the study show that the Merdeka Curriculum is conceptually aligned with the principles of Islamic education, especially in terms of character development, freedom of learning, and student-centered learning. However, the implementation of this curriculum in Fiqh learning still faces a number of challenges, such as teachers' limited understanding of the new curriculum approach, a lack of project-based contextual teaching materials, and difficulties in conducting authentic assessments on aspects of worship and morals. Technical challenges such as the availability of facilities and access to technology also hamper the effectiveness of learning. This study emphasizes the need for continuous teacher training, the development of open-access learning resources, and improved infrastructure support in order to strengthen the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum. Overall, this curriculum has significant potential to improve students' understanding of Fiqh if it is supported by appropriate and collaborative implementation strategies.

This study aims to analyze the implementation of artificial intelligence in economics learning within the context of the Merdeka Curriculum and to examine its alignment with deep learning principles. The study employed a qualitative approach using a case study design conducted at SMAN 1 Boyolali. The research participants included economics teachers and eleventh grade students. Data were collected through classroom observations, in depth interviews, and document analysis. Data analysis was carried out interactively through data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing and verification. The findings indicate that the use of artificial intelligence in economics learning remains limited and has not been systematically integrated into pedagogical design. AI is primarily utilized as a supporting tool for lesson preparation and concept clarification rather than for adaptive learning, data driven assessment, or the enhancement of students’ critical thinking skills. Although students demonstrated positive responses toward AI assisted learning, several constraints were identified, including teachers’ limited pedagogical competence in AI integration, the absence of deep learning based instructional design, and infrastructural challenges. These findings suggest that the effectiveness of artificial intelligence in economics education depends not merely on technological availability, but on the alignment between pedagogy, curriculum policy, and human resource readiness.

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 implement and evaluate the effectiveness of a learning module designed for X grade students (Phase E) at SMAN 4 Palangkaraya, focusing on the Christian values of love, justice, and tolerance within the framework of the Merdeka Curriculum. The implementation involved classroom teaching using lectures, group discussions, and quizzes to foster active and meaningful learning experiences. The objectives included ensuring students' understanding of the core values, developing their ability to articulate these values, and achieving a minimum score on quizzes. The methodology included direct teaching, observation of student responses and engagement, and evaluation of learning outcomes through cognitive and affective assessments. Findings revealed that 90% of students actively participated in discussions, and all groups engaged in answering quiz questions. The use of rewards notably enhanced student enthusiasm and participation. Despite the overall success, some students did not achieve the highest performance level. The implications suggest that integrating technology into the learning process and thorough preparation of teaching materials are crucial for enhancing student outcomes. This study contributes to the understanding of how Christian values can be effectively integrated into the curriculum to promote holistic student development, aligning with the Pancasila Student Profile, which emphasizes faith, moral integrity, global diversity, and collaboration.                                                                     

This study aims to analyze the integration of the Pancasila Student Profile (PSP) within Civics Education (PPKn) learning in elementary schools through a descriptive qualitative library research approach. The research draws on 15 national journal articles published between 2020 and 2025 that discuss strategies, challenges, and outcomes of implementing the PSP in learning practices. The findings show that PSP values—such as mutual cooperation, independence, critical thinking, creativity, and noble character—are primarily integrated through classroom activities, project-based learning, and habituation programs aligned with the Merdeka Curriculum. However, several challenges persist, including limited teacher understanding, inconsistent school support, inadequate learning media, and insufficient alignment between curriculum expectations and classroom practices. The analysis also reveals that effective implementation requires strong teacher leadership, contextual learning strategies, and sustained school commitment to character development. The study contributes theoretically by deepening understanding of value-based learning and practically by offering recommendations for teachers and schools to optimize character-based PPKn instruction. Overall, the integration of PSP values strengthens students’ character formation and supports the development of a holistic learning environment consistent with Pancasila principles.  

The implications of progressivism in learning serve as an essential foundation for building an educational process that fosters active, creative, adaptive, and innovative students in accordance with 21st-century competency demands. The progressive approach positions students at the center of the learning process through direct experience, deep exploration, collaboration, dialogue, experimentation, and problem-solving relevant to real-life contexts, ensuring that learning is not only focused on content mastery but also on the development of potential, character, independence, and higher-order thinking skills. This study employs a literature review method by examining primary and secondary sources on the principles of progressivism, active learning strategies, and their relation to the Merdeka Curriculum as a foundation for national educational transformation. The findings indicate that progressivism plays a significant role in shaping critical thinking, creativity, communication, collaboration, digital literacy, and initiative through the implementation of learning by doing, project-based learning, simulations, scientific experiments, reflective discussions, and technology integration that strengthens learner autonomy. This experience-based approach effectively supports students in constructing knowledge independently while enhancing confidence, responsibility, social awareness, and cooperative skills. However, its implementation still faces challenges such as passive learning culture, limited teacher competence in active methods, insufficient facilities, overloaded curriculum, psychosocial barriers, academic anxiety, and students’ low confidence in expressing opinions. These findings affirm that progressivism is highly relevant to educational reform in Indonesia; therefore, improving teacher competence, strengthening facilities, reinforcing policies, providing continuous support, and creating safe, democratic, inclusive, and supportive learning environments are essential to help students develop optimally as independent, creative, and innovative learners.

This study aims to analyze the role of teachers in strengthening the Pancasila Student Profile (P5) as an effort to develop the character of third-grade students at SDN Kestalan. Strengthening P5 is an essential component of the Merdeka Curriculum because it functions to shape students’ character holistically through six main dimensions. However, the implementation of P5 in elementary schools still faces several challenges, such as uneven teacher understanding, less structured planning, and diverse student characteristics. This research uses a qualitative descriptive approach with observation, interview, and documentation techniques to obtain in-depth data on teacher practices, integration strategies, obstacles, and the impact of P5 implementation. The results show that teachers have an adequate understanding of the P5 concept and strive to integrate it through interactive lectures, question-and-answer sessions, simple experiments, the habituation of the 5S culture, and creative projects that actively involve students. The obstacles encountered are generally related to discipline issues, emotional immaturity, limited facilities, and suboptimal parental involvement. However, these challenges can be reduced through personal approaches, positive motivation, support from school facilities, and collaboration with parents. The implementation of P5 has been proven to have a positive impact on students’ character development, especially in the aspects of politeness, cooperation, responsibility, and self-confidence. Therefore, the strategic role of teachers and the support of a conducive learning environment are key factors in the success of character strengthening through P5.         

Critical thinking skills are crucial in preparing students to face global challenges, particularly in economics, which utilizes the Merdeka curriculum based on a deep learning approach. The purpose of this study was to determine students’ critical thinking skills through the implementation of the ALBICI (Active Learning Based Interactive Conceptual) learning model within the Merdeka curriculum based on a deep learning approach. This study employed a qualitative approach with a case study design, conducted through reviews and observations at SMA Islam 1 Surakarta. The results indicate that the implementation of the ALBICI interactive learning model can improve critical thinking skills within the Merdeka curriculum based on deep learning. This study also provides valuable guidance for educators seeking to implement effective teaching practices to enhance student interest and motivation, thus optimizing classroom activities.

The implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum is a national education policy aimed at enhancing the quality of learning through a more flexible, student-centered approach that emphasizes character strengthening. However, the implementation of this curriculum in Islamic schools based on pesantren (Islamic boarding schools) presents unique challenges that require in-depth study. This research aims to describe the challenges faced by teachers in implementing the Merdeka Curriculum at MANU Putra Buntet Pesantren and to examine the school's readiness in supporting its execution. This study uses a descriptive qualitative approach with data collection techniques including observation, semi-structured interviews with the Vice Principal for Curriculum Affairs, and documentation. The results indicate that the Merdeka Curriculum has been implemented in grades X and XI, but its execution is not yet fully optimal. The main challenges faced by teachers include low student engagement in learning, demands for adapting to rapid policy changes from the government and the Ministry of Religious Affairs, as well as limitations in supporting learning facilities and infrastructure. Nevertheless, the character of MANU Putra Buntet Pesantren as an Islamic school based on pesantren serves as a strength in integrating Islamic values into learning. The implications of this research highlight the need for mentoring, more intensive socialization, and improved facilities to ensure the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum in Islamic schools can be more effective and aligned with the objectives of Islamic education.

The research intends to formulate an integrative approach for designing the Merdeka Curriculum based on Deep Learning in the Economics subject at SMA N 1 Boyolali. The rapid advancement of digital technology demands more adaptive, contextual, and student-centered learning models aligned with 21st- century competencies. Using a an exploratory research approach supported by a structured assessment of prior studies (SLR), this research synthesizes theoretical perspectives and previous studies related to curriculum design, deep learning, and educational innovation. The results reveal that the incorporation of Deep Learning into the Merdeka Curriculum offers a more responsive and data-driven framework, enabling deeper conceptual understanding, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills in Economics learning. However, several challenges were identified, including teachers limited digital competence, insufficient infrastructure, and minimal curriculum innovation training. The study emphasizes the significance of combining technological and pedagogical innovation to strengthen learning quality. The results provide a conceptual model that educators can adopt to design an adaptive curriculum aligned with students’ characteristics and contemporary educational demands.

This study aims to analyze the role and strategies of introducing mathematical proofs appropriately for students, as well as to describe their contribution to enhancing logical, critical thinking, and understanding of mathematical concepts. The method used is library research with a descriptive qualitative approach through the analysis of various current scientific literature relevant to mathematics learning and education. The results of the study indicate that mathematical proofs not only function as a tool for verifying the truth of a statement but also as an epistemological process that develops deductive, argumentative, and reflective reasoning skills in understanding the structure and relationships of mathematical logic. Effective introduction strategies include the use of visual representations, collaborative learning, linguistic scaffolding, and the application of a gradual approach from informal argumentation to formal deduction. The approach has been proven to enhance students conceptual understanding, argumentative skills, and logical awareness. The implication is that proofs need to be systematically integrated into mathematics learning in secondary schools to strengthen Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) and develop a scientific mindset in accordance with the principles 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.

This study aims to compare the Merdeka Curriculum in Indonesia and the National Curriculum in Japan from both conceptual and practical perspectives. The analysis focuses on the fundamental principles, educational goals, learning approaches, and classroom implementation. Indonesia’s Merdeka Curriculum emphasizes flexibility and autonomy for teachers and students, highlighting competency development, character building, and the Profil Pelajar Pancasila (Pancasila Student Profile). Meanwhile, Japan’s National Curriculum centers on fostering a well-balanced personality through integrated moral, social, and academic education. Conceptually, both curricula share similarities in promoting holistic learning and character education, yet they differ in implementation and assessment systems. In Indonesia, project-based and differentiated learning approaches are key features, whereas Japan emphasizes collaborative learning, discipline, and hands-on experience in daily life. Practically, Indonesia faces challenges in ensuring equal access to resources and teacher readiness, while Japan has established a stable and standardized national education system. This comparative analysis reveals that Indonesia can learn from Japan in terms of consistency, learning culture, and the integration of moral and social values. Thus, the study provides valuable insights for enhancing Indonesia’s curriculum to become more globally responsive while preserving national identity and character.

The improvement of Islamic elementary education quality largely depends on the competence of teachers as the primary agents of learning. In the context of Madrasah Ibtidaiyah (MI), the challenges of globalization and the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum demand teachers to develop professionally, innovatively, and with strong Islamic values. This study aims to analyze the integration of transformational leadership and organizational culture in enhancing the quality of teachers’ human resources in MI. A qualitative approach with a case study design was employed at three Islamic elementary schools in Central Java. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and documentation, and analyzed using the Miles and Huberman model with source and method triangulation for validation. The findings reveal that transformational leadership practiced by school principals plays a crucial role in building teachers’ motivation, commitment, and change orientation through exemplary behavior, inspiration, and empowerment. Meanwhile, an organizational culture rooted in Islamic values strengthens collaboration, professionalism, and shared responsibility among teachers. The integration of these two elements creates a synergistic effect that enhances teachers’ pedagogical, professional, and spiritual competencies. It can be concluded that transformational leadership combined with a strong organizational culture serves as an effective strategy to sustainably improve teacher quality in Madrasah Ibtidaiyah..

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.

Early childhood education plays a crucial role in building the foundation for children’s cognitive, social, emotional, and creative development. Creativity is an essential aspect that must be stimulated through meaningful and contextual play activities. This study aims to describe the process and outcomes of developing children’s creativity through the implementation of loose part play with the theme “School Environment” at TK Tunas Karya III Sukanagara. The research employed a descriptive qualitative approach involving 64 children from group A and group B, along with their accompanying teachers. Data were collected through participatory observation, semi-structured interviews, and documentation of the children’s creative works during the activities. The results reveal that loose part play effectively enhances children’s creativity. The children demonstrated improvements in divergent thinking, imagination, and self-confidence. Moreover, they became more environmentally aware, utilized recycled materials to create new objects, and exhibited collaboration and responsibility in group activities. Teachers played an essential role as facilitators who provided support and guidance throughout the exploration process. The loose part approach aligns with the principles of the Merdeka Curriculum, which emphasizes active, participatory, and experience-based learning for young children. This study provides practical implications for early childhood educators to design creative learning experiences that are low-cost, environmentally friendly, and relevant to the children’s real-life context.

The Merdeka Curriculum policy, initiated by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (Kemendikbudristek), marks a significant paradigm shift in the Indonesian educational landscape. This curriculum emphasizes student-centered learning, flexibility, and the development of competencies according to students' interests and talents. This study aims to critically analyze the relevance of the philosophy of progressivism, pioneered by John Dewey, as a conceptual foundation for the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum. Using a systematic literature review method on 15 Sinta indexed scientific journals (minimum Sinta 4) published between 2018-2024, this study examines the alignment between the core principles of progressivism such as experience as the basis of learning (learning by doing), the teacher's role as a facilitator, problem-solving, and democratic education and the essence of the Merdeka Curriculum policy. The analysis reveals a strong alignment between the two concepts. Project-based learning, content differentiation, and formative assessment within the Merdeka Curriculum are concrete manifestations of progressive ideas. However, this study also identifies implementation challenges, such as teacher readiness, school culture transformation, and resource availability, which can hinder the internalization of this philosophy at the practical level. It is concluded that a deep understanding of the philosophy of progressivism by stakeholders, especially educational managers and teachers, is crucial to ensure that the Merdeka Curriculum becomes not just an administrative change, but also a substantive and sustainable pedagogical transformation.

This study aims to examine the effectiveness of implementing a descriptive writing learning model based on digital literacy and local wisdom in improving writing skills, learning motivation, and cultural character among junior high school students. Employing a descriptive qualitative approach with a case study design, the research was conducted at SMP Negeri 2 Kroya, Cilacap Regency, during the 2025–2026 academic year. Data were collected through participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and document analysis, and were subsequently analyzed using the interactive model developed by Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña. The findings indicate that the application of this model effectively enhances students’ writing abilities in terms of content, structure, language style, and digital literacy ethics. The integration of digital technology fosters the development of cognitive, technical, and social literacy, while the reinforcement of local wisdom cultivates cultural awareness, regional identity pride, and reflective thinking skills. Writing activities evolved into collaborative and creative processes that combine cultural exploration with the ethical use of digital technology. From a pedagogical perspective, this model aligns with the principles of deep learning promoted by the Kurikulum Merdeka and contributes to strengthening the Eight Dimensions of Graduate Competencies, particularly in critical reasoning and problem-solving, creativity and innovation, collaboration and mutual cooperation, as well as the development of the Pancasila student profile and global citizenship. Therefore, the descriptive writing learning model based on digital literacy and local wisdom can be regarded as an innovative strategy in Indonesian language education to realize a contextual, reflective, creative, and culturally grounded learning process.

This study aims to analyze Islamic Religious Education (PAI) learning at SMP NU Muara Sugihan from the perspective of the National Education Standards (SNP), focusing on the integration of NU values. A qualitative approach was employed, with data collected through in-depth interviews, observation, and school documentation. The findings indicate that the school curriculum adopts the Merdeka Curriculum combined with local content of kitab kuning, so that learning emphasizes not only academic mastery but also the development of religious character, moral integrity, and tolerance. The learning process is conducted collaboratively involving teachers, the principal, staff, parents, and students, supported by routine spiritual activities such as congregational Dhuha prayers. The assessment system integrates formative, summative, and religious practice-based evaluations. These results demonstrate that value internalization at SMP NU Muara Sugihan is effective, consistent with the internalization value theory of Muhammad Alim and Ahmad Tafsir, and supports the balanced achievement of students’ academic, spiritual, and social competencies. Practically, the findings can serve as a model for NU-based schools in designing curriculum, learning strategies, and value-based extracurricular activities.