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Communication is a crucial element in the learning process, particularly in the education of students with special needs who possess diverse characteristics, abilities, and communication requirements. These differences require teachers to implement adaptive communication strategies to ensure that learning messages are effectively conveyed and understood by students. This study aims to analyze the communication at SLB YPAC Medan. The subjects of this study specifically focused on third-grade students with intellectual disabilities (tunagrahita) and slow learners. The. The study adopted a qualitative approach using a case study method. Data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation, and analyzed using the Miles and Huberman model, which includes data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings reveal that teachers apply communication strategies through a combination of verbal and nonverbal communication. Verbal communication involves the use of simple language, repetition of learning materials, and step-by-step instructions tailored to students’ abilities. Meanwhile, nonverbal communication is expressed through facial expressions, body movements, eye contact, and the use of visual learning media to clarify instructional messages. In addition, interpersonal approaches emphasizing patience, attention, empathy, and emotional closeness were found to enhance the effectiveness of teacher–student interactions. Supporting factors include adequate school facilities, psychological services, and therapy programs, while inhibiting factors involve differences in students’ characteristics and limitations in their communication abilities. This study concludes that adaptive communication strategies that accommodate individual student needs play a significant role in creating an effective, comfortable, and supportive learning environment for students with special needs.

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.

This paper offers a comparative analysis of character education through the lens of Islamic and secular humanistic paradigms. Recognizing the increasing cultural and religious diversity in contemporary educational settings, the study emphasizes the importance of an integrative approach that respects both spiritual and rational ethical frameworks. Islamic character education centers on virtues derived from divine guidance, fostering a moral compass anchored in faith, while secular humanistic education promotes critical thinking, autonomy, and universal ethical principles grounded in reason and empathy. By synthesizing these approaches, educators can cultivate learners’ moral resilience, empathy, and ethical commitment within pluralistic societies. The paper further highlights the benefits of intercultural dialogue, pedagogical innovation, and cultural competence for teachers, parents, and communities in supporting holistic moral development. Ultimately, the integration of these models enriches character education, preparing students to become ethically responsible and socially engaged citizens in globalized contexts

This article examines the dialogue between John Calvin’s educational thought and the Merdeka Curriculum within the context of Christian Religious Education (PAK) in Indonesia. Employing a qualitative-comparative approach with descriptive analysis, this study traces the points of convergence and tension between Calvin’s educational principles particularly the concept of imago Dei, holistic education, and the God-centered purpose of education and the principles of the Merdeka Curriculum such as flexibility, differentiated learning, and the Profil Pelajar Pancasila (Pancasila Student Profile). The analysis reveals significant convergence in terms of respect for the potential and uniqueness of learners, holistic educational orientation, and the role of teachers as facilitators and character formers. However, fundamental tensions also exist regarding Calvin’s theocentric theological foundation vis-à-vis the secular Pancasila foundation, the concept of discipline and authority versus student freedom, and the ultimate goal of education glorifying God versus forming the Pancasila Student Profile. Based on these findings, this article offers practical recommendations for PAK curriculum design based on the Merdeka Curriculum, a Kingdom of God-nuanced project-based learning approach, holistic assessment, and Christian character formation within the Profil Pelajar Pancasila framework. This research contributes to filling the gap in studies that dialogue the Reformed theological tradition with contemporary Indonesian national education policy.

The rapid development of globalization has significantly influenced modern education systems, requiring not only the advancement of knowledge but also the strengthening of moral and spiritual values. This study aims to analyze the integration of Islamic values within modern education systems in the era of globalization. The research employs a qualitative approach with a library research method, utilizing various academic sources such as books, journals, and relevant documents. Data are collected through documentation techniques and analyzed using content analysis to interpret and synthesize existing theories and findings. The results indicate that the integration of Islamic values can be effectively implemented through curriculum development, teaching methods, digital technology utilization, and the role of educators as value transmitters. Furthermore, the study reveals that a holistic and systematic integration approach is essential to balance intellectual, emotional, and spiritual development in learners. The implications of this research highlight the importance of developing an integrative education model that aligns Islamic principles with modern scientific and technological advancements, in order to produce individuals who are not only academically competent but also possess strong moral character in facing global challenges.

This study starts from the observation that Christian education is still often delivered in a one-way, top-down manner. As a result, learners are less actively engaged in understanding their faith and social lives. Paulo Freire’s ideas on critical education offer an approach that emphasizes dialogue, participation, and social change. This study aims to examine Christian educational theology through Freire’s perspective and to explore how his ideas can be applied in learning processes. A qualitative approach was used, employing library research methods—reading, note-taking, and analyzing written sources related to Freire’s thought and Christian educational theology. The findings indicate that Freire’s approach can shift education from teacher-centered to learner-centered. Learning becomes more dialogical, encouraging critical thinking and deeper understanding of reality. Christian education then focuses not only on knowledge of faith but also on character development and spiritual life. Consequently, Christian education should be developed to be more open, participatory, and dialogical through activities such as group discussions, open Q&A sessions, and faith reflection. This enables learners to grow in faith while developing stronger social awareness. Future research is recommended to study the direct application of Freire’s ideas in Christian educational institutions.

The development of globalization and digital culture has given rise to an epistemological crisis that shifts the authority of truth from revelation to social construction, so that the authority of the Bible in Christian education is increasingly marginalized. This condition has an impact on the low internalization of the value of faith, where students understand the Bible cognitively but do not live it in daily practice. This research aims to reconstruct the authority of the Bible in Christian education through an integrative and contextual approach in the midst of global cultural fragmentation. This research uses a qualitative approach with a library research method that integrates theological, pedagogical, and digital cultural contexts. Data were obtained from theological literature, educational theory, and relevant journal articles, which were analyzed using content analysis techniques and theological-constructive reflection. The results show that the crisis of biblical authority is influenced by epistemic shifts, the dominance of post-truth culture, low internalization of values, and non-contextual pedagogical approaches. This research creates a model of reconstruction of biblical authority that integrates the epistemological, pedagogical, and bruxistic dimensions in a transformational manner. In conclusion, this reconstruction does not change the theological substance of the Bible but updates the approach to learning to be more dialogical, reflective, and contextual, so that the authority of the Bible remains relevant in shaping the faith and character of learners in the global era.  

 This research addresses the growing tendency of contemporary education to prioritize cognitive achievement while marginalizing character formation and spiritual development, resulting in an imbalanced educational paradigm that affects the holistic growth of learners in various educational contexts. In response, the research critically examines the concept and principles of Christian education as articulated by Ignatius Loyola, particularly in relation to contemporary educational challenges and the need for meaningful transformation in learning processes today. The study employs a qualitative approach using a literature review method, drawing on relevant academic sources such as books, peer-reviewed journal articles, and theological writings to support systematic and critical analysis. The findings indicate that Ignatian educational thought emphasizes holistic human formation through the integration of intellectual, moral, and spiritual dimensions, grounded in the principles of Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam, Cura Personalis, and Find God in All Things, which together foster reflective, value-oriented learning. The study contributes to contemporary educational discourse by offering an alternative framework that promotes holistic development, strengthens character formation, and addresses the limitations of cognitively oriented educational models in diverse educational practices.

A mid the growing complexity of contemporary education, the challenge of integrating intellectual achievement with moral and spiritual development has become increasingly urgent. This study examines educational strategies in the Qur’an through the perspective of tafsir tarbawi, focusing on four core approaches: exemplary conduct, advice, dialogue, and storytelling. The research aims to explore how the Qur’an presents pedagogical methods that not only convey knowledge but also shape character and internalize values in learners. Employing a qualitative library research design with thematic and tafsir tarbawi approaches, this study analyzes relevant Qur’anic verses and supporting scholarly literature. The findings reveal that the Qur’an offers a holistic and dynamic model of education in which exemplary conduct functions as a behavioral model, advice serves as a means of value internalization, dialogue promotes reflective and critical thinking, and storytelling strengthens moral awareness through narrative experience. These strategies are interconnected and operate across cognitive, affective, and behavioral domains. The study concludes that Qur’anic educational strategies remain highly relevant for contemporary Islamic education, particularly in strengthening character formation, reflective learning, and the integration of values in educational practice.

English learning at the elementary school level plays an important role in developing students’ early language competence, particularly in listening skills as the foundation for other language abilities. However, many learning processes still rely on conventional teaching methods that do not fully accommodate the developmental characteristics of young learners, resulting in limited engagement and listening comprehension. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the role of storytelling in improving English listening skills among elementary school students and to identify effective implementation strategies in classroom learning. This research employs a library research method by reviewing and analyzing various relevant literature sources, including books, scientific journals, and previous research findings related to storytelling in English language learning. The analysis shows that storytelling contributes significantly to improving students’ listening comprehension, vocabulary acquisition, attention, and learning motivation. Through structured narratives, expressive delivery, and the support of visual media, storytelling creates a contextual and meaningful learning environment that helps students understand spoken English more effectively. The findings also indicate that the effectiveness of storytelling is closely related to the developmental characteristics of elementary school students who learn better through concrete, imaginative, and engaging experiences. Furthermore, the implementation of storytelling through systematic stages pre-listening, while-listening, and post-listening can enhance students participation and comprehension during the learning process. In conclusion, storytelling can be considered an effective instructional strategy for improving English listening skills among elementary school students while also supporting vocabulary development and creating an engaging learning atmosphere.

. Studies on the use of a digital storybook for teaching English to young learners have been abundant; however, the integration of independence values into the story for elementary school students in Indonesia has received limited attention. Independence is one of the characters that educate young learners to become responsible and self-reliant. This study aims to design a digital storybook that integrates independence value into English language learning materials for fifth-grade students. Using a qualitative Design-Based Research (DBR) approach, this study employed a design framework as the main research instrument, derived from character education theory, Teaching English to Young Learners (TEYL), and multimedia learning theory. Data were collected through the analyses of curriculum policies, English textbooks, children’s literature, character education, and multimedia learning. This study produced a digital storybook entitled Lisa Can Do It, which can be expected to become a medium to learn English and at the same time educate children about independence value. Findings indicate that character-based digital storybooks demonstrate the potential to integrate language learning with character education, providing a foundation for the design and implementation of digital learning materials integrated with character in English language education in elementary schools. Further research should focus on the implementation of the product to evaluate its impact on student learning outcomes.

Christian education plays a strategic role in shaping the faith, character, and spiritual life of learners however, learning processes often remain theoretical, limiting the internalization of faith values. This study aims to examine the concept of theological reflection using the Sharing Christian Praxis (SCP) method in Christian education, explore its application, and analyze its relevance to contemporary life. This research employs a qualitative approach with a literature study method, drawing on relevant books, scientific journals, and academic sources. The findings indicate that theological reflection is a fundamental process in Christian education that enables learners to interpret life experiences in the light of God’s Word, resulting in authentic faith transformation. The SCP method, developed by Thomas H. Groome, provides an operational framework for implementing this theological reflection through systematic stages: sharing life experiences, critical reflection, engagement with Scripture, dialogue, and commitment to action. The relationship between theological reflection and SCP is integral and synergistic; theological reflection provides direction and depth, while SCP operationalizes this process dialogically and contextually, the application of SCP in Christian education has proven effective in increasing learner engagement and connecting faith with daily life. It is recommended that Christian educators implement SCP as a primary learning method, and that educational institutions integrate it into their curriculum development strategies.

Difficulties in learning to read the Qur’an among adults do not always stem from the quality of teaching materials or instructors, but are often caused by the use of learning methods that are not appropriate to adult learners’ characteristics. Adults possess distinct psychological, physiological, and experiential backgrounds that require learning approaches different from those used for children. Monotonous and rigid instructional methods may hinder motivation and limit learning outcomes, particularly in Qur’anic literacy education. This condition is further compounded by physical limitations commonly experienced by adults and the elderly, such as dental and oral health problems, as well as strong regional language accents that affect pronunciation accuracy. In response to these challenges, the Tsaqifa method was developed as an alternative and practical approach specifically designed for adult beginners who have little or no prior ability to read the Qur’an. This method emphasizes simplicity, flexibility, and learner-centered instruction, enabling participants to gradually improve their Qur’anic reading skills in a supportive and non-intimidating learning environment. Through its application, adult learners are encouraged to regain confidence and motivation in studying the Qur’an, thereby contributing to efforts to reduce Qur’anic illiteracy among adult and elderly communities, particularly in rural areas.

Instilling saving habits from an early age is an essential component of character education, particularly in fostering discipline, responsibility, and independence. Initial observations at PAUD Nurul Islam, Jelutih Village indicate that early childhood saving interest remains relatively low due to limited engaging learning media and the absence of structured habituation. This Community Service Program (KKN) aims to foster early childhood saving interest through creative piggy bank media aligned with children’s developmental characteristics. The implementation method comprised planning, execution, and evaluation stages. During execution, children were introduced to saving concepts through simple storytelling and interactive dialogue, followed by hands-on creation of creative piggy banks using simple, child-friendly materials. These piggy banks were then used to habituate saving behavior. The results demonstrate increased enthusiasm and saving interest among children, reflected in their willingness to set aside money and heightened responsibility toward their piggy banks. Therefore, creative piggy bank media serve as an effective alternative learning tool for fostering saving interest and positive character development among early childhood learners at PAUD Nurul Islam, Jelutih Village.

Working memory (WM) has been extensively studied as a cognitive factor influencing second language acquisition (SLA), but many studies treat it as a static, trait-like capacity. This approach provides limited insight into how WM works across different stages of development, proficiency levels, and learning contexts. This article combines theoretical and empirical research on working memory in SLA from a dynamic and developmental perspective, analyzing how the influence of WM varies over time and interacts with other cognitive and contextual factors. Referencing Baddeley's multicomponent model, complex dynamic systems theory, and longitudinal research, this article examines evidence regarding the role of WM in various language domains, including vocabulary learning, grammar processing, and language production. It also investigates how WM works differently at various proficiency levels and developmental periods, from childhood to adulthood. Evidence suggests that WM plays a very strong role in the early stages of learning when processing is effortful and controlled, but becomes less central as linguistic knowledge becomes automated. The relationship between WM and SLA appears to be bidirectional, with sustained language learning contributing to the development of specific WM components, particularly executive control. The influence of WM varies significantly based on task characteristics, teaching context, and learner profiles. Understanding WM as a dynamic resource rather than a fixed constraint has important pedagogical implications. Instructions that manage cognitive load, provide support, and encourage metacognitive awareness can help learners with diverse cognitive profiles. A developmental approach in WM research requires longitudinal designs and task-aligned methodologies to capture changes over time, thereby advancing theory and practice in SLA.

Tafsir tarbawi is an approach to interpreting the Qur’an that emphasizes the extraction of educational values to shape holistic human character. This study aims to analyze the implementation of tafsir tarbawi in the process of Islamic education and examine its relevance in shaping students’ character in the modern era. The research employs a qualitative method with a library research approach, where data are collected through the analysis of various academic sources such as books, scholarly journal articles, and relevant previous studies. The findings indicate that tafsir tarbawi can be effectively implemented through the integration of Qur’anic values into educational curricula, the application of value-based learning methods, and the reinforcement of teachers’ exemplary behavior as role models. Furthermore, this approach encourages the internalization of spiritual, moral, and social values within students. Therefore, tafsir tarbawi plays a strategic role in developing learners who are not only intellectually competent but also possess strong character, noble morals, and the ability to face life’s challenges wisely.

Indonesian language education plays a strategic role in strengthening national identity and preserving cultural values amid the pressures of globalization. In the global era, the dominance of foreign languages, digital media, and transnational cultures poses challenges to the existence of national languages and local cultural identities. This study aims to analyze the role of Indonesian language education as an instrument for reinforcing national identity and cultural awareness in formal educational settings. The research employs a qualitative descriptive method with a literature review approach, examining scientific journals, policy documents, and relevant educational studies published within the last five years. Data were analyzed through content analysis to identify patterns, themes, and conceptual relationships related to language education and cultural identity. The findings reveal that Indonesian language education not only functions as a medium of communication but also serves as a vehicle for transmitting national values, cultural narratives, and collective identity. Learning materials that integrate local wisdom, literature, and cultural texts significantly contribute to students’ cultural awareness and national character development. Furthermore, Indonesian language education plays an important role in fostering critical literacy, cultural resilience, and a sense of belonging among learners in a globalized context. The study implies that strengthening Indonesian language education through curriculum development, contextual learning, and teacher competence enhancement is essential to sustaining national identity and cultural continuity in the era of globalization.

Islamic education in Indonesia plays a strategic role in shaping students’ religious character as well as their national identity, and therefore cannot be separated from the ideological foundations of Pancasila and the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI). Islamic education functions not only as a means of transmitting religious values, but also as a medium for internalizing national ideology in line with the goals of national education. This study aims to analyze the ideological foundations of Islamic education based on the values of tauhid, Pancasila, and NKRI, as well as to examine their relevance to national education policies and curricula. This research employs a qualitative approach using a library research design. The data were obtained from secondary sources, including scholarly books, journal articles, education policy documents, and relevant legislation. Data collection was conducted through documentation studies, while data analysis applied a descriptive-analytical method to systematically examine the interrelationships among concepts. The findings indicate that the ideological values of Pancasila are substantively aligned with Islamic teachings, particularly in the aspects of divinity, humanity, unity, deliberation, and social justice. Within the framework of NKRI, Islamic education contributes significantly to the formation of religious-nationalist character and the strengthening of national integration. The integration of Pancasila values, religious moderation, and Islam rahmatan lil ‘alamin into national education policies and curricula, particularly through the Merdeka Curriculum and the Pancasila Student Profile, reflects a systematic effort to develop Islamic education that is adaptive and contextual. The implications of this study emphasize that strengthening the ideological foundations of Islamic education is a crucial prerequisite for producing learners who are faithful, knowledgeable, morally upright, and responsible citizens of Indonesia.

The goal of Christian education is not only to increase students' knowledge but also to shape character that reflects the values ​​of faith in Christ. In the context of a diverse society, an inclusive and tolerant attitude towards differences is crucial for students. This paper aims to illustrate how students can be shaped to develop an inclusive and tolerant attitude based on the values ​​of the Christian faith. Through Christian Religious Education (PAK) learning that emphasizes love, respect for one another, justice, and peace, students are encouraged to recognize that every human being is created in the image and likeness of God. An inclusive and tolerant attitude can develop when students understand that differences are part of God's plan and implement this in their interactions with others. Therefore, Christian education plays a crucial role in instilling the value of Christ's love so that students can live peacefully together, appreciate differences, and become role models in a diverse society.

The development of digital technology and the demands of 21st-century learning require teachers to implement meaningful and student-centered learning through an immersive learning approach. However, many elementary school teachers still face limitations in understanding the concept of immersive learning and utilizing technology-based learning media, especially three-dimensional (3D) and Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based media. Therefore, this Field Study activity aims to improve the knowledge and skills of teachers and students in implementing immersive learning through the use of 3D-based learning media and AI technology at the UPTD of SD Negeri 155684 Lubuk Tukko 1, Pandan District. The activity was implemented through a four-day workshop involving teachers and students, using an approach of socialization, demonstrations, hands-on practice, discussion, and reflection. The workshop materials covered the concept of immersive learning, the use of 3D-based learning media, gamification of learning through 3D Media applications, and the use of Artificial Intelligence in developing teaching materials and learning media. Evaluation of the activity was conducted through pre- and post-tests, participant observation, and analysis of the resulting learning products. .The results of the activity showed an increase in teachers' understanding and skills in designing and implementing technology-based immersive learning. Teachers were able to produce interactive learning media, teaching modules, and evaluation questions using 3D media, 3D media, and AI. Furthermore, this activity also increased teachers' motivation, creativity, and awareness of the importance of digital literacy in learning. This Field Study activity made a positive contribution to improving teacher competency and supporting the creation of more innovative, interactive, and relevant learning that reflects the characteristics of 21st-century learners.