<![CDATA[This study explores the challenges faced by Indonesian language teachers in vocational schools (SMK) in implementing the Emancipated Learning Curriculum, focusing on three key areas: curriculum understanding, material management, and assessment practices. The curriculum emphasizes student-centered, contextual learning, yet its implementation presents obstacles for teachers. A mixed-methods approach was employed, involving a survey of 40 teachers from East Java. The findings reveal that more than half of teachers have only a partial understanding of the curriculum, with experienced teachers struggling the most to transition from traditional methods. In material management, 70% of respondents reported inadequate or partially adequate resources, with rural teachers facing severe shortages. Assessment practices were dominated by traditional tests, while project-based and performance-based assessments were rarely used due to lack of training, logistical challenges, and systemic emphasis on standardized evaluations. These challenges highlight the need for targeted interventions, including practical training on curriculum application, development and equitable distribution of curriculum-aligned resources, and supportive policies for flexible assessments. Addressing these issues is critical for achieving the curriculum’s goals of fostering critical thinking, creativity, and contextual learning. Future research should investigate long-term impacts and scalable solutions for effective curriculum implementation in diverse settings.]]>
