Diving into the Challenges of Merdeka Belajar : Building a Student-Centered School Culture

Merdeka Belajar, a transformative program initiated by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (Kemendikbudristek), promises significant changes in the Indonesian education landscape. This program encourages a paradigm shift from teacher-centered learning to student-centered learning. However, amidst these noble aspirations, there are a number of challenges that need to be addressed to create a truly student-centered school culture.
 
Challenges in Building a Student-Centered School Culture
 
1. Mindset Shift:
 
Merdeka Belajar demands a shift in mindset from teachers, school principals, and all members of the school community. The role of the teacher shifts from instructor to facilitator, while students become the main actors in the learning process. For example, at School X, teachers still rely heavily on lecture-based methods and provide limited opportunities for students to actively ask questions and engage in discussions.
 
2. Curriculum and Learning:
 
The curriculum and learning methods need to be adapted to the needs and interests of students. Flexible, creative, and student-centered learning approaches should be implemented. For instance, School Y has adopted project-based learning, where students can choose topics they are interested in and work on projects collaboratively.
 
3. Evaluation and Assessment:
 
The evaluation and assessment system needs to be transformed to assess students' abilities and potential holistically, not just based on exam scores. School Z utilizes portfolios and presentations as forms of assessment, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of students' critical thinking, creativity, and communication skills.
 
4. Facilities and Infrastructure:
 
Schools need adequate facilities and infrastructure to support student-centered learning, such as comfortable classrooms, complete learning equipment, and stable internet access. School A faces difficulties in conducting online learning due to limited internet access in the area.
 
5. Teacher Skills:
 
Teachers need to enhance their skills in implementing student-centered learning, such as designing engaging learning experiences, conducting effective assessments, and managing diverse student needs. Teachers at School B participate in training to improve their skills in applying student-centered learning models.
 

Building a Student-Centered School Culture
 
1. Teacher Professional Development:
 
Provide training and mentorship for teachers to enhance their skills in implementing Merdeka Belajar. School C regularly conducts workshops and sharing sessions to improve teachers' competency in applying Merdeka Belajar principles.
 
2. Curriculum Development:
 
Design a curriculum that is flexible, student-centered, and tailored to the needs and interests of students. School D engages in discussions with students to develop a curriculum that aligns with their interests and needs.
 
3. Assessment System Renewal:
 
Implement an evaluation and assessment system that assesses students' abilities and potential holistically. School E utilizes portfolios and presentations as forms of assessment, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of students' critical thinking, creativity, and communication skills.
 
4. Infrastructure Enhancement:
 
Meet the needs for adequate facilities and infrastructure to support student-centered learning. School F received government funding to improve internet access and purchase modern learning equipment.

5. Collaboration with Parents:  

Building close communication and collaboration with parents to support the student learning process.  Sekolah G organizes discussion forums with parents to get input and support in running Merdeka Belajar.
 
Conclusion
 
Merdeka Belajar offers a great opportunity to improve the quality of education in Indonesia.  However, implementing this program demands major changes in school culture.  By overcoming challenges and implementing strategic steps, schools can build a truly student-centered culture and realize the ideals of Merdeka Belajar.