ANALISIS PENERAPAN KURIKULUM MERDEKA BELAJAR KELAS IV DI SD MUHAMMADIYAH 03 ASSALAM MALANG

Education is a process in which learners develop activities and creativity through interactions that result in learning experiences. In Indonesia, education is undergoing a transformation through curriculum changes, particularly with the implementation of the Independent Curriculum, which began in the 2021/2022 academic year in 2,500 schools. The global pandemic accelerated the adoption of the Independent Curriculum, allowing for flexible curriculum adjustments to foster student creativity through various learning methods. This research aims to understand the implementation of the Independent Curriculum at SD Muhammadiyah 3 Assalaam and uses a qualitative approach with a case study method.
The research was conducted through observations, interviews, and documentation from September to October 2023. The results of the study indicate that the Independent Curriculum has been implemented in the fourth grade of SD Muhammadiyah 3 Assalaam since the 2022/2023 academic year. The preparation of teachers and educational staff for implementing this curriculum has been well-executed. They have been trained in various aspects, including planning, implementation, and evaluation of the learning processes contained within the Independent Curriculum.
Before the implementation, teachers underwent in-depth training on the substance of learning, such as setting goals, developing learning sequences, and evaluation techniques. Supporting factors identified at SD Muhammadiyah 3 Assalaam include high learning motivation from both teachers and students, active support from parents or guardians in the learning process, and the availability of adequate learning facilities such as teaching materials and learning media. In the initial stages of the Independent Curriculum implementation, there were several inhibiting factors, including a lack of references from online media sources, as well as the need to improve students' literacy levels in mastering knowledge and skills in problem-solving.