Educational research requires a thorough understanding of population and sample concepts as the foundation for ensuring the validity and generalizability of findings. This article explores the fundamental differences between population and sample, the implications of their selection on research outcomes, and appropriate strategies for selecting a representative sample. By reviewing commonly used sampling approaches, such as probability and non-probability techniques, this paper highlights the importance of aligning the method with the research objectives and context. A clear understanding of these concepts is crucial for researchers to produce accurate, reliable, and contextually relevant educational data.

Social transformation brought by the Industrial Revolution 4.0 has led to the emergence of Society 5.0, where technology is integrated into all aspects of life. In education, this presents both challenges and opportunities, especially for teachers whose roles and responsibilities have become increasingly complex. This article aims to analyze the strategic role of teachers in shaping student competencies relevant to the demands of the 21st century. Using a descriptive qualitative approach and library research method, the study refers to constructivism, connectivism, and the 21st Century Skills Framework. The findings highlight that teachers must balance mastering educational technology with instilling character values in students. Their responsibilities include fostering critical thinking, communication, collaboration, creativity (4C), promoting digital literacy, and preparing students as global citizens. The study concludes that teachers are key agents of educational transformation in the Society 5.0 era, and their readiness in handling technological, pedagogical, and moral demands is vital to the future of education.

In educational research, identifying variables and determining data sources are essential components in designing a systematic and accurate study. Research variables refer to the elements that are observed and measured within a study. These variables can include student achievement, motivation, teaching strategies, or learning environment conditions. Generally, variables are categorized as independent, dependent, control, or moderator variables. The independent variable is the influencing factor, while the dependent variable is the outcome. Control variables are held constant to avoid interference, and moderator variables affect the strength or direction of the relationship. The process of identifying variables begins with formulating the research problem and objectives. By reviewing theoretical frameworks and previous studies, researchers can focus their investigation on measurable aspects. For instance, in a study about the effectiveness of online learning on student performance, the independent variable is online learning, while the dependent variable is student achievement. Beyond identifying variables, researchers must also determine the appropriate types of data sources. Data sources are generally divided into two categories: primary and secondary. Primary data are collected directly from research subjects, such as through interviews, observations, or questionnaires. Secondary data, on the other hand, are obtained from existing sources like documents, books, journals, or official reports. The choice of data source must align with the research approach—quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods. In quantitative research, primary data such as test scores or survey responses are used to measure variables numerically. In qualitative research, in-depth interviews and observations are commonly used to explore meanings and context. Using both types of data in combination can enhance data validity through triangulation. Ultimately, researchers must ensure the validity and reliability of their data, while also maintaining ethical standards in data collection and reporting. By understanding how to identify variables and select appropriate data sources, educational research can yield credible findings that contribute meaningfully to educational theory and practice.

This article discusses the crucial role of student administration within the context of education in the Society 5.0 era, where technology has become an integral part of the learning process. The research employs a library research method to gather and analyze various literature sources related to student administration, the role of teachers, and the use of technology in education. The findings indicate that the success of student administration relies not only on technology but also on the collaboration between teachers, students, parents, and other stakeholders. By utilizing digital tools and information systems, teachers can enhance efficiency in managing student data, assessments, and other administrative processes. This article aims to provide significant contributions to the development of more effective and efficient student administration, ultimately improving the overall quality of education in the digital era.

Curriculum administration is all business processes that have been planned and attempted deliberately and earnestly as well as continuous guidance on teaching and learning activities effectively and efficiently in order to achieve the educational goals that have been set. The importance of curriculum administration in educational institutions, which includes the selection of materials, teaching methods, and assessments that are in accordance with educational goals and student needs. Curriculum administration plays a role in ensuring that the curriculum is well structured and organized through various levels of planning, implementation, and supervision. Curriculum evaluation is also an important part of education management, aiming to collect information about the effectiveness of curriculum implementation and the impact of learning outcomes. In addition, this journal highlights the role of teachers in curriculum administration as implementers, adapters, developers, and researchers. The presence of artificial intelligence (AI) technology presents an opportunity for educators to carry out a learning process that focuses on the needs, interests, and learning styles of students, because the independent curriculum requires educators to carry out differentiated learning as an initiative in facilitating students, especially in Pancasila education, which incidentally is still carried out by conventional models or methods.

Generation Alpha is a unique generation, born in the era of digital technology. Since an early age, they have been in contact with information technology. Based on previous research, this generation spends a lot of time in front of the screen and is fluent in using technological tools. As a generation of future leaders, teachers and parents must have an approach based on the characteristics of the Alpha generation in parenting and teaching patterns to develop leadership character. The study aims to examine the characteristics of the Alpha generation, how character education for the Alpha generation and effective parenting patterns in preparing the digital leadership of the Alpha generation. Literature studies show that the Alpha generation has great potential as a digital leader through the digital environment, character education in schools and parental care must be adjusted to the characteristics of the Alpha generation, by providing role models, mentoring, and good relationships. This study used a mixed method involving a quantitative survey of teachers and students, as well as qualitative interviews with school principals. The results of the study show that effective leadership in this context involves the implementation of holistic policies, which not only emphasize mastery of technology, but also strengthen character values ??such as responsibility, discipline, and empathy. Thus, the role of principals and teachers is crucial in creating a learning environment that is balanced between the intellectual development and character of students.  This research provides strategic recommendations for educational leaders in designing policies that are able to integrate technology without neglecting student character development.

The rapid development of information and communication technology (ICT) has fundamentally changed the educational landscape. Schools, which were previously often considered as stand-alone entities, are now increasingly recognized as an integral part of wider social systems. In this context, the active role of society in the education process becomes increasingly crucial. This research aims to examine in depth how the administration of school and community relations is implemented in the digital era, as well as identifying factors that support or hinder its success. In the last few decades, there has been a paradigm shift in the understanding of education. Education is no longer solely seen as a process of transferring knowledge from teacher to student, but rather as a holistic individual development effort. Society, as a social environment where individuals grow and develop, has a very significant role in shaping the character and competence of students. Therefore, building strong and synergistic relationships between schools and society is the key to realizing quality education that is relevant to the needs of the times. This research has the main aim of analyzing, identifying, evaluating, identifying matters relating to school and community relations. This research uses a literature review approach. Research data was obtained from various sources, including scientific journals, popular articles, research reports, and relevant policy documents. Data analysis was carried out systematically by identifying main themes, comparing findings from various sources, and drawing conclusions based on existing evidence. The research results show that the implementation of administration of school and community relations in the digital era has experienced rapid development. The use of social media platforms, school websites, and mobile applications has facilitated more effective communication between schools and the community. In addition, many schools have involved the community in various school activities, such as extracurricular activities, personal development programs, and decision making regarding school policies.

Islamic education plays an important role in shaping a generation that is faithful, noble, and has a positive impact on society and Muslims in general. Harun al-Rashid, as one of the earliest thinkers, made a valuable contribution in this regard, with his concept of thought that is relevant to Islamic education today. This research aims to explain the concept of Harun Ar-Rashid's thoughts related to Islamic education and its relevance to the current context of Islamic education. The research method used is qualitative research with a literature study approach, exploring information from various sources such as literature, research reports, theses, dissertations, and electronic publications related to Harun Ar-Rashid's concept of thought on Islamic education and its relevance to the present. The results show that Harun al-Rashid's concept of Islamic education has significant inspirational value. A deep understanding of these concepts allows Islamic education to continue to develop and make a positive contribution amid the dynamics of modern times. In the midst of the complexity of the modern world, the values championed by Harun al-Rashid can be an important guideline in defining the role of Islamic education and achieving the expected noble goals.