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Journal : REiLA: Journal of Research and Innovation in Language

Curriculum Reform Meets Classroom Realities: Selected Indonesian Teachers’ Perspectives on the Merdeka Curriculum Kumayas, Tirza; Luntungan, Grace Shirley; Arsai, Alfons Napoleon; Tatipang, Devilito Prasetyo
REiLA : Journal of Research and Innovation in Language Vol. 7 No. 1 (2025): REiLA : Journal of Research and Innovation in Language
Publisher : The Institute of Research and Community Service (LPPM) - Universitas Lancang Kuning

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.31849/5x19dj04

Abstract

The introduction of the Merdeka Curriculum marks a transformative shift in Indonesia’s English Language Teaching (ELT) landscape by promoting flexibility, student-centered learning, and project-based approaches. However, the success of such curriculum reform relies heavily on how teachers, as frontline implementers, perceive, adapt, and navigate its complexities in diverse classroom realities. Addressing a critical gap in existing research that predominantly focuses on policy-level analysis, this qualitative case study investigates the lived experiences, perceptions, and coping strategies of Indonesian ELT educators amidst the early stages of Merdeka Curriculum implementation. Drawing on Fullan’s theory of educational change, data were gathered through semi-structured interviews, classroom observations, and document analysis involving 20 English teachers, 30 students, and 10 administrators across rural, suburban, and urban settings. Thematic analysis revealed that while the curriculum fosters innovation and autonomy, teachers face significant constraints including insufficient training, technological inequity, and excessive administrative demands. Despite these challenges, educators expressed strong support for student-centered instruction, multimedia integration, and skill development emphasizing communication and critical thinking. This study contributes uniquely by offering context-specific insights into teacher agency within systemic constraints, advocating for equitable resource allocation, professional development, and collaborative policy feedback mechanisms. By amplifying teacher voices, this research not only informs national curriculum design but also engages in broader global conversations on curriculum autonomy, pedagogical reform, and the essential role of teachers in enacting meaningful educational transformation.
Co-Authors Agnes Mila Agusmaliani Agustine Clara Mamentu Anas Irwan Angela Rambi ANGELIA JOVANKA RANTUNG Arsai, Alfons Napoleon Deane J. Wowor Deane Wowor Delli Sabudu Desy Fransiska Ansow Devilito Prasetyo Tatipang Deysi Batunan Elisabeth Z Oroh Ester Sekeon Feisy Mokoagouw Felro Mokorimban Fergina Lengkoan Fergina Lengkoan Fivy Andries Friska Violet Tumbelaka Gerry Kasiha Gersom Yos Grace Shirley Luntungan Hema Sirait Hiyashinta Ampasenan Klise Ien Meise Lumendang Ignatius Javier C. Tuerah Imelda Lolowang Irene Trivena Lelet Iskandar, Ishak Junita Waworuntu, Junita Waworuntu Jusuf Daniel Ondang Katamona, Bryan Ruswandi Kesek, Philia Shallom Kristian Rumengan Lengkoan, Fergina Levie Meray Loho, Putri Talita Lolowang, Imelda S. Maria Rahelia Tulung Meity Muntuuntu Mellinia P Tawas Merlin M. Maukar Mintje, Intan Misgter Gidion Maru Ni Luh Parwati Ni Wayan Dessy Anggreni Nihta Vera Frelly Liando Nitha V. F. Liando Noldy Pelenkahu Nurmin Samola Oroh, Elisabeth Z. PANDEAN, ALVANDO R. Paula L Hampp Paula Rombepajung Pipin Apriola Priscillia Wekes Riahi, Sri Rinny Rorimpandey Rivaldo Wales Rogi, Deva Eklesia Salam, Trisnayanti Sanerita T. Olii Sang Ayu Putu Desy Herdiyanti Putri Sarah Kamagi Saudah, Khalifatun Sekeon, Trisya Senduk, Jessica S. Senduk, Jessica Sherina Senduk, Sisilia Sianturi, Enjelina Sry S Langi Toding Stella S Tambuwun Suswanti Higinik Tini Mogea Usnatun Hasanah Sarono Vemi Wati Sabanari Viktoria vabiola Dea solambela Vincentia Ester Gusti Br. Tambunan Vivianti Tamalawe Wuon, Jilia Yanuar Somba Yulita R. Mawuntu