Transformative Authentic Assessment for Learner Identity Reconstruction in Personalized Learning Pathways: Advancing SDG 4 and SDG 10 in Indonesian Education

Afakhrul Masub Bakhtiar (State University of Surabaya)
Yatim Riyanto (State University of Surabaya)
Sujarwanto Sujarwanto (State University of Surabaya)

Journal of Current Studies in SDGs
Vol. 2 No. 3 (2026): September

Objective: To investigate how transformative authentic assessment implemented within Personalized Learning Pathways (PLP) reconstructs learner identity by enhancing motivation and self-efficacy among learners in Indonesian Community Learning Centers (PKBM), while supporting the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4 and 10. Method: A qualitative multi-site case study was conducted at PKBM Sekolah Dolan Malang and PKBM Tsurayya Karimah Indonesia. Fifty-seven participants, including institutional heads, tutors, administrative staff, learners, and an external supervisor, were purposively selected. Data were collected through participatory observations, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis and cross-site synthesis to identify recurring patterns across both learning centers. Results: The findings reveal that authentic assessment functions as a continuous, reflective, and learner-centered process rather than merely an instrument for measuring academic achievement. Portfolio-based assessment, reflective discussions, individualized feedback, and continuous learning monitoring significantly enhanced learners' intrinsic motivation and self-efficacy. These assessment practices gradually transformed learners' perceptions from educational failure and low self-confidence toward positive learner identities characterized by confidence, autonomy, responsibility, and lifelong learning orientation. Novelty: Proposing a transformative authentic assessment framework that conceptualizes learner identity reconstruction as a sequential psychological process linking authentic assessment, recognition of learners' strengths, enhanced motivation, strengthened self-efficacy, and positive learner identity. The findings extend authentic assessment literature beyond academic achievement by demonstrating its role as a psychological mechanism for educational inclusion and learner empowerment within personalized learning pathways in community education.