THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE INDEPENDENT CURRICULUM AND CRITICAL PEDAGOGIC APPROACHES IN OVERCOMING POST-PANDEMIC EDUCATION CHALLENGES AN ANALYSIS ON MI MA ARIF NU 09 KETING

Abstrak

This study evaluates the effectiveness of the Merdeka Curriculum and critical pedagogical approach in addressing educational challenges at MI Ma’arif NU 09 Keting post-COVID-19 pandemic. The Merdeka Curriculum, implemented in the 2024/2025 academic year for certain classes, faces challenges such as inadequate teacher training and uneven distribution of teaching materials. The critical pedagogical approach, focusing on student empowerment and critical analysis of learning materials, was also tested to assess its impact on the learning process. The research employs a qualitative method with a case study approach, involving interviews and field observations. The findings indicate that the Merdeka Curriculum enhances the flexibility and relevance of learning but requires additional support in training and material provision. The critical pedagogical approach effectively boosts student engagement and understanding of the material. This study provides insights into how curricula and pedagogical approaches can be integrated to improve the educational system in the post-pandemic era.