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Innovative Leadership and Educational Quality Management: A Qualitative Study of Principal Practices in a Indonesian Primary School Ni Kadek Delin Ariani; Rizal Rizal; Pahriadi Pahriadi; Muhammad Aqil; Surahman Wilade; Sisriawan Lapasere
Journal of Innovation and Research in Primary Education Vol. 5 No. 1 (2026)
Publisher : Papanda Publisher

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.56916/jirpe.v5i1.2851

Abstract

Educational quality management in primary schools requires innovative leadership capable of navigating resource constraints while fostering continuous improvement. However, limited empirical evidence exists on how innovative leadership operationalizes quality management in rural Indonesian contexts. This study examined the innovative leadership strategies of the school principal in implementing educational quality management at SD Inpres Makapa A, Banggai Regency, Central Sulawesi. A qualitative descriptive design was employed, involving the principal and nine teachers as participants. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, document analysis, and Likert-scale questionnaires, then analyzed using an interactive model comprising data reduction, display, and conclusion drawing with triangulation to ensure trustworthiness. Findings revealed exceptionally high perception scores (95.6%) for innovative leadership across all indicators. The principal demonstrated transformational-innovative leadership through participatory decision-making, transparent communication, continuous professional development, technology integration, and moral-ethical guidance. Three interconnected mechanisms emerged: collaborative culture-building, adaptive practices, and psychological empowerment. Documentary evidence confirmed institutionalized quality management practices, though resource constraints moderated sustainability. Innovative leadership significantly enhances educational quality management effectiveness by leveraging social capital and intrinsic motivation rather than material resources alone. The study provides a replicable model for rural primary schools and emphasizes prioritizing leadership capacity-building alongside infrastructural investments for sustainable quality improvement.
The Effectiveness of the Word Square Learning Model on Reading Ability: A Quasi-Experimental Study of Fourth-Grade Students in Indonesian Language Instruction Ayu Amalia Shaltina; Herlina Herlina; Sisriawan Lapasere; Muhammad Aqil; Putriwanti Putriwanti; Surahman Surahman
Journal of Innovation and Research in Primary Education Vol. 5 No. 1 (2026)
Publisher : Papanda Publisher

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.56916/jirpe.v5i1.2858

Abstract

Reading ability constitutes a fundamental skill essential for academic success, yet many elementary students experience persistent difficulties in developing adequate reading competencies. The Word Square model, a game-based puzzle intervention, offers a promising approach to enhance reading instruction through active word recognition and contextual learning. This study investigated the effectiveness of the Word Square learning model on reading ability among fourth-grade elementary students in Indonesian language instruction. A quasi-experimental design with nonequivalent control groups was employed, involving 44 students divided into experimental (n=22) and control (n=22) groups. The experimental group received Word Square instruction while the control group participated in conventional teaching. Reading ability was assessed through pretest and posttest measurements. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Shapiro-Wilk normality test, Levene's homogeneity test, independent samples t-test, and normalized gain (N-gain) analysis. The experimental group achieved significantly higher posttest scores (M=89.64) compared to the control group (M=70.86), with t=13.636, p<0.001. The N-gain coefficient of 0.7325 indicated high effectiveness, demonstrating substantial improvement relative to students' growth potential. The Word Square learning model significantly enhances reading ability among fourth-grade students, providing robust empirical support for game-based, student-centered pedagogical approaches in elementary literacy instruction. These findings offer practical implications for educators seeking evidence-based strategies to improve reading outcomes.
Collaborative Leadership Practices and Their Impact on Educational Quality Management Febi Yulianti; Rizal Rizal; Pahriadi Pahriadi; Muhammad Aqil; Surahman Wilade; Sisriawan Lapasere
Journal of Innovation and Research in Primary Education Vol. 5 No. 1 (2026)
Publisher : Papanda Publisher

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.56916/jirpe.v5i1.2868

Abstract

Collaborative leadership has emerged as a critical approach for enhancing educational quality management, yet its implementation in resource-constrained rural schools remains underexplored. This qualitative descriptive study examined collaborative principal leadership and its role in implementing educational quality management at SD Inpres 3 Tolai, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with the principal and nine teachers, document analysis, and structured questionnaires, then analyzed using thematic analysis and descriptive statistics. Findings revealed that collaborative leadership achieved 90.2% effectiveness, characterized by participatory decision-making, professional empowerment, trust-building, and institutionalization of Professional Learning Communities. Six major themes emerged: participatory decision-making, empowerment and professional development, trust-building and democratic climate, Professional Learning Communities, adaptive leadership in the digital era, and implementation challenges including time constraints and resource limitations. Teachers unanimously perceived the principal's leadership as highly collaborative, with 59.4% strongly agreeing and 40.6% agreeing across all measured dimensions. The study demonstrates that collaborative leadership can function effectively in resource-constrained contexts by leveraging relational capital—trust, communication, and shared commitment—to compensate for material limitations. Findings support Collaborative Leadership Theory and Total Quality Management principles, illustrating how distributed decision-making fosters continuous improvement and democratic organizational culture. The research contributes evidence-based insights for strengthening educational leadership capacity in rural Indonesian elementary schools.
Integrating Discovery Learning with Kahoot to Enhance Elementary Science Learning Outcomes: A Classroom Action Research Study Faradilla Nur Itsnaini; Yun Ratna Lagandesa; Sisriawan Lapasere; Rizal Rizal; Ryan Andhika Pratama; Surahman Surahman
Journal of Innovation and Research in Primary Education Vol. 5 No. 1 (2026)
Publisher : Papanda Publisher

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.56916/jirpe.v5i1.2910

Abstract

Low science learning outcomes in elementary schools often result from traditional teacher-centered instruction that fails to actively engage students in the learning process. This study investigated the effectiveness of integrating the Discovery Learning model with Kahoot media to improve science learning outcomes among fourth-grade elementary students. Employing a classroom action research design following Kemmis and McTaggart's spiral model, this study involved 23 fourth-grade students at Al Khairaat Tondo Elementary School in Indonesia. Data were collected through learning achievement tests, structured observations of teacher and student activities, and implemented across two cycles during October-November 2025. The intervention yielded substantial improvements in learning outcomes. Mean scores increased from 45.86 (pre-test) to 66.86 (Cycle I) and 76.26 (Cycle II), while classical completion rates rose from 4.34% to 56.52% and ultimately 82.60%, exceeding the predetermined success threshold of 65%. Observation data demonstrated enhanced student engagement (82.35% to 93.33%) and improved teacher implementation quality (75% to 94.04%) across cycles. The integrated Discovery Learning and Kahoot approach significantly enhanced both cognitive achievement and student engagement in science education. The synergistic combination of constructivist inquiry-based pedagogy with game-based assessment effectively transformed learning experiences for students with initially low achievement levels.
Enhancing Reading Comprehension Through Mind Mapping: A Classroom Action Research Study with Fifth-Grade Elementary Students Sarah Azizah; Muhammad Aqil; Zulnuraini Zulnuraini; Ammar Abdullah Joni Guci; Surahman Wilade; Sisriawan Lapasere
Journal of Innovation and Research in Primary Education Vol. 5 No. 1 (2026)
Publisher : Papanda Publisher

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.56916/jirpe.v5i1.2963

Abstract

Reading comprehension remains a persistent challenge in elementary education, with students frequently struggling to organize textual information and identify main ideas. This study investigated the effectiveness of mind mapping strategies in enhancing reading comprehension among fifth-grade students. Employing a classroom action research design based on the Kemmis and McTaggart model, this study involved 33 fifth-grade students at SD Inpres 3 Tondo across two iterative cycles. Data were collected through observation sheets for teacher and student activities, reading comprehension rubrics, and documentation. Analysis combined descriptive statistics for quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative observations. Reading comprehension performance improved significantly from 63% (sufficient category) in Cycle I to 79% (good category) in Cycle II, representing a 16-percentage-point increase. Student engagement increased from 65% to 91%, while teacher effectiveness improved from 89% to 95%. An unexpected finding revealed that struggling readers benefited disproportionately from the intervention, showing 24-percentage-point gains compared to 12-percentage-point improvements among higher-performing students. The findings support dual coding theory and schema theory, demonstrating that visual-verbal integration through mind mapping facilitates deeper cognitive processing. Mind mapping proved effective as an accessible, low-cost intervention that transforms comprehension from an invisible individual activity into a visible collaborative process, with implications for literacy instruction in resource-constrained contexts.
Teachers' Understanding and Implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum in Indonesian Elementary Schools Yuni Rahmawati; Herlina Herlina; Sisriawan Lapasere; Yusdin Bin M Gagaramusu; Mas'adi Mas'adi; Surahman Surahman
Journal of Innovation and Research in Primary Education Vol. 5 No. 1 (2026)
Publisher : Papanda Publisher

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.56916/jirpe.v5i1.2966

Abstract

Teachers' comprehensive understanding of the Independent Curriculum constitutes a fundamental prerequisite for successful educational transformation in Indonesia. Despite nationwide policy implementation through Permendikbudristek No. 12 of 2024, limited empirical evidence exists regarding teachers' depth of curriculum comprehension at the elementary level. This qualitative descriptive study, grounded in postpositivist paradigm, examined four classroom teachers at SD BK Jonooge through semi-structured interviews, systematic classroom observations, and document analysis. Data were analyzed using Miles and Huberman's interactive model, encompassing data reduction, display, and conclusion drawing. Findings revealed that curriculum implementation remains suboptimal, with teachers demonstrating limited understanding of core components including learning outcomes (CP), learning goal flows (ATP), and project-based learning principles. Implementation challenges manifested in persistent traditional pedagogical approaches, symbolic integration of Pancasila Student Profile values, and predominant summative assessment practices. These deficits stemmed primarily from severely inadequate professional development—training conducted only once biennially—compounded by insufficient facilities and limited professional learning community participation. Paradoxically, student learning outcomes showed improvement despite incomplete implementation fidelity. The study elaborates teacher understanding as a multidimensional construct encompassing cognitive, pedagogical, and metacognitive dimensions, challenging deficit-oriented implementation narratives. Findings underscore urgent need for sustained, job-embedded professional development utilizing collaborative learning models, establishment of robust professional learning communities, and redesigned curriculum materials with explicit implementation guidance to optimize educational transformation.
Culturally-Embedded Gamification: Integrating Behoa Valley Local Wisdom to Enhance Elementary Science Learning Outcomes Marlene Juita Kadoi; Rizal Rizal; Surahman Wilade; Pahriadi Pahriadi; Sisriawan Lapasere
Journal of Innovation and Research in Primary Education Vol. 5 No. 1 (2026)
Publisher : Papanda Publisher

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.56916/jirpe.v5i1.2968

Abstract

Elementary science education often remains teacher-centered and disconnected from students' cultural contexts, resulting in low learning outcomes. This study aimed to improve fifth-grade students' learning outcomes in Natural and Social Sciences through a gamification model based on the local wisdom of Behoa Valley at Rompo Elementary School. Employing classroom action research following Kemmis and McTaggart's spiral model, the study involved 12 fifth-grade students across two cycles during October-November 2025. Data were collected through achievement tests, structured observations, and documentation, then analyzed using quantitative and qualitative approaches. The intervention integrated game elements (points, challenges, rewards) via Wordwall platform with place-based learning resources, specifically the Behoa Valley's megalithic sites, to teach earth science concepts. Student learning outcomes improved progressively from pre-test (average: 54.28, completion: 41.67%) through Cycle I (average: 73.33, completion: 66.67%) to Cycle II (average: 80.41, completion: 83.33%). Student and teacher activities achieved "very good" criteria, with engagement scores reaching 94.64% and 90% respectively in Cycle II. The culturally-embedded gamification model significantly improved student learning outcomes by creating meaningful connections between scientific concepts and familiar cultural landscapes. This approach demonstrates that integrating local wisdom with interactive pedagogy enhances both cognitive achievement and cultural identity, offering valuable implications for culturally-responsive STEM education in heritage-rich contexts.
Implementing Strategic Management for Learning Quality: How Rural School Principals Navigate Resource Constraints Nurhalizah Nurhalizah; Rizal Rizal; Surahman Wilade; Nashrullah Nashrullah; Dyah Aini Purbarani; Sisriawan Lapasere
Journal of Innovation and Research in Primary Education Vol. 5 No. 1 (2026)
Publisher : Papanda Publisher

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.56916/jirpe.v5i1.2984

Abstract

Primary education plays a critical role in shaping future human resources, making the quality of learning processes essential. This study examined the strategic management practices of the principal at SDN 2 Bora, a rural primary school in Indonesia, in achieving national learning process standards. The research addressed challenges commonly faced by rural schools, including limited facilities, varied teacher competencies, and fluctuating student motivation. A qualitative case study design was employed, involving 16 teachers, 150 students, 30 parents, and educational staff as participants. Data were collected through questionnaires, systematic observations, in-depth interviews, and document analysis. The Miles and Huberman interactive model was used for data analysis, supplemented by triangulation techniques to ensure trustworthiness. Findings revealed that the principal demonstrated effective strategic management across three key components. Strategic planning was conducted collaboratively and systematically (teacher rating: 95.0%, student: 87.6%, parent: 94.6%). Implementation was supported through active instructional leadership and supportive supervision (teacher: 92.5%, student: 88.5%, parent: 86.8%). Evaluation was performed regularly to guide continuous improvement (teacher: 90.9%, student: 89.3%, parent: 87.1%). Overall stakeholder satisfaction averaged 90.2%, categorized as "Very Good." The study concludes that strategic management significantly improved teacher performance, student engagement, and parental involvement, demonstrating that effective leadership can overcome resource constraints in achieving educational quality standards in rural primary schools.
Implementation of Process-Standard Management in Science and Social Studies Learning: A Case Study of Grade V Elementary School Nur Aviza; Rizal Rizal; Surahman Wilade; Nashrullah Nashrullah; Muhammad Nazimuddin Al Kamil; Sisriawan Lapasere
Journal of Innovation and Research in Primary Education Vol. 5 No. 1 (2026)
Publisher : Papanda Publisher

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.56916/jirpe.v5i1.3053

Abstract

Process-standard management plays a crucial role in ensuring quality education, yet its implementation in integrated science and social studies (IPAS) learning under Indonesia's Merdeka Curriculum remains understudied, particularly in resource-limited elementary schools. This qualitative descriptive case study examined process-standard implementation in Grade V IPAS learning at SD Inpres Perumnas Palu through a 31-item student questionnaire (N=31), semi-structured interviews with the teacher and principal, and documentation analysis. The overall implementation achieved a mean score of 3.66/4.00 (95.6%), indicating good to very good quality. Assessment and follow-up demonstrated the strongest performance (M=3.75), while planning and implementation scored 3.65 and 3.60 respectively. Strengths included clear instructional objectives, positive classroom climate, varied teaching methods, systematic formative and summative assessment, and strong school leadership support. However, gaps emerged in student involvement in planning (M=3.13), collaborative learning opportunities (M=3.00), and critical thinking stimulation (M=3.10). An unexpected finding revealed students distinguished between structured group discussions and authentic peer collaboration. Findings confirm that while teachers successfully implement visible pedagogical practices, deeper competencies in curriculum-based planning, sustained inquiry facilitation, and comprehensive diagnostic-formative assessment require strengthened professional development and institutional support.
Strategic Management of School Principals in Implementing Deep Learning: A Case Study of Indonesian Elementary Education Kadek Marsela Yustini Resintia; Rizal Rizal; Surahman Wilade; Nashrullah Nashrullah; Muhammad Nazimuddin Al Kamil; Sisriawan Lapasere
Journal of Innovation and Research in Primary Education Vol. 5 No. 1 (2026)
Publisher : Papanda Publisher

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.56916/jirpe.v5i1.3055

Abstract

Deep learning implementation requires strong strategic leadership, yet limited empirical evidence exists on how principals manage this process in resource-constrained primary schools. This qualitative case study examined strategic management practices of the principal at SD Inpres Perumnas Palu in implementing deep learning. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with the principal and two teachers, a 25-item Likert-scale questionnaire administered to 31 students, and document analysis. Data analysis followed Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña's interactive model involving data reduction, display, and conclusion drawing. Findings revealed systematic strategic management across three phases: planning through vision-mission alignment and cascade training models (mean effectiveness: 94.8%), implementation via pedagogical guidance and resource mobilization including ATM curriculum adaptation and multi-format supervision, and evaluation through weekly collaborative meetings and systematic monitoring using 15-indicator instruments. Student perceptions indicated predominantly positive deep learning experiences (overall mean = 3.61), with highest scores in mindful learning (mean = 3.76) and joyful learning (mean = 3.71) dimensions. Challenges included ICT competency variations, time constraints, and infrastructure limitations. Strategic management effectively enabled deep learning implementation despite resource constraints, with principal leadership creating conditions supporting pedagogical innovation. The study demonstrates how transformational leadership translates into concrete strategic processes, contributing frameworks for implementing curriculum reform in developing educational contexts.
Co-Authors A.R, Muslim A.Rahmaeni M, A.Rahmaeni M Abdul Rahman Agon Salum Tonio Amelia Citra Amin Basri Andi Imrah Dewi Andi Nur Isnayanti Andi Nur Isnayanti Andi Rahmaeni M Annisa Triagustin AR, Muslim Ardiana, Risma Nur Ari Astuti Arif Firmansyah Arif Firmansyah Asriani Asriani Asriani, Asriani Asriani, Asriani Ayu Amalia Shaltina Azizah Azizah Azizah Azizah Azizah Azizah Thalib Azzahra Zahwa Adillah Bau Ratu Dedi Rore Poting Deliana Pratiwi Denisa Deviyanti, Ida Ayu Putu Puja Dewi Tri Rahayu Dyah Aini Purbarani Dyah Aini Purbarani Dyah Rahmawati Dyah Rahmawati Eka Afrianda Eltrian Fadlia Mubakkira, Fadlia Mubakkira Fahriadi Fahriadi Faradilla Nur Itsnaini Faradilla, Aulia Febi Yulianti Febriana, Yunda Filiansi, Mutmoza Fitra Fitra, Fitra Fresya Angnelvin Dengkidala Gita Ismi Nurain Glorya Pashya Koela Guci, Ammar Abdullah Joni Gunawan Gunawan Haswin Haswin Herlina Herlina Herlina, Herlina Huber Yaspin Tandi, Elfika Arif Firmansyah Ida Ayu Putu Puja Deviyanti Isthifara Aulya Ivone Juvelia Sinolidi Janatul Huzhlifat Jeni Ariyanti Jessicka Klarita Ombitaka Kadek Hariana Kadek Herawati Kadek Marsela Yustini Resintia Kalista Musdalifa Kasmawati Kasmawati Khaeratun Hisan Kheren Evelin Tenggeli Lestari, Nova Hermina Made Pristyawati Mahfud M. Gamar Mahmud Gamar, Mahfud Mahmud Gamar Marlene Juita Kadoi Marungkil Pasaribu Masri Amin Parla Mas’adi Mas’adi Melyani Sari Sitepu Miftahul Inayah Moh. Ahdan Syafitra Monipo, Yulan Mubarik Mubarik Muhamad Kausar Muhammad Aqil Muhammad Fasli Muhammad Nazimuddin Al Kamil Muhammad Nazimuddin Al Kamil Muhammad Nazimudin Al Kamil Muhammad Nazimudin Al Kamil Murlan, Muliati Muslim A.R Nashrullah . Nashrullah ., Nashrullah Nashrullah, Nashrullah Nengsih Julianti Ni Kadek Delin Ariani Ni Made Dina Adelia Ni Nyoman Anis Kristina Yanti Ni Nyoman Nevy Noor Alfulaila Noor Alfulaila Noviana, Firta Nur Aviza Nur Fadlun Nur Hasifa Nur Kamilah Nur Qurrota Aini Nuraini Nuraini Nurgan Tadeko Nurgan Tadeko Nurhalizah Nurhalizah Nurma Yuntika Tolodo Nurrahma Nurrahma Nursakinah, Nursakinah Nurul Annisa Nurul Fitriah Aras Nurul Fitriah Aras, Fitriah_arasss Nurul Istiqamah Nurul Maulidya Nurwahida Nurwahida Pahriadi Paidi, Zulhilmi Pratama, Ryan Andhika Putri Maharani Dwi Rarasati Putri Nur Sakina Karadjo Putriwanti Putriwanti Putriwanti Rahma, Dewi Rahmatia J. Balang Rahmawati, Rahmawati Rangga Putera Boroallo Revalinda Anggraeni Ranuntu Rhifa A-h Zahra Ramadhani Ricky Raisandi Risqi Ramadani. S Rizal Rizal Rizal Rizal, Rizal Roberto Rolly Bolalong Roberto Rolly Bulalong Rolly Bolalong, Roberto Rosnadi Rosnadi Ryan Andhika Pratama Ryan Andika Pratama Sajma Sajma Sakinah Sakinah Sarah Azizah Septiana Nur Shakina Shakina Sinta Satria Dewi Pendit Sinta Satria Dewi Pendit Sinta Satria Dewi Pendit Siti Helmyati Sitti Nur Fadillah Sri Wahyuni Sri Wahyuni Sri Wahyuni Sukri Sukri Supriyadi, Supriyadi Surahman Wilade Syachputri M, Winanda Tanggerahi, Lawrence Usnia, Usnia Vera Angelina Pesik Viovri Venesya Widiani, Ni Nyoman Wildani, Wildani Wildani Wiwin Wiwin Wolingalo, Anggita Frestianingsih Yun Ratna Lagandesa Yuni Rahmawati Yusdin Bin M Gagaramusu Yusdin Gagaramusu Yusuf Kendek Zulnuraini