Alsina : Journal of Arabic Studies
Vol. 8 No. 1 (2026)

Educators’ Strategic Roles in the Merdeka Curriculum and Their Impact on Students’ Interest in Learning Arabic

Rahma Aisha Nabila (Universitas Islam Negeri Sulthan Thaha Saifuddin Jambi)
Musli Musli (Universitas Islam Negeri Sulthan Thaha Saifuddin Jambi)
Mustar Mustar (Universitas Islam Negeri Sulthan Thaha Saifuddin Jambi)
Dina Chabib Uluum (Universitas Islam Negeri Sulthan Thaha Saifuddin Jambi)
Mursyid Mursyid (Universitas Islam Negeri Sulthan Thaha Saifuddin Jambi)
Fitri Nurul'ain Nordin (Universiti Teknologi MARA)



Article Info

Publish Date
28 Feb 2026

Abstract

This study analyzes the strategic roles of teachers in implementing the Merdeka Curriculum and their contribution to developing students’ interest in learning Arabic at MTs Nurul Iman, Jambi City. A qualitative case study approach was employed, with data collected through interviews, questionnaires, classroom observations, and documentation involving 16 eighth-grade students and one Arabic teacher. Data analysis integrated Teacher Role Theory, Pedagogical Content Knowledge, and Interest Development Theory. The findings show that teachers effectively enacted their roles as facilitators, motivators, learning designers, role models, and assessors providing feedback. These roles contributed to triggering situational interest, maintaining student engagement, and fostering the development of individual interest in Arabic learning. In this context, students demonstrated high and sustained interest, reflected in active participation, awareness of the importance of Arabic, and willingness to engage in independent learning. However, the use of digital-based learning media remains suboptimal due to limited facilities and infrastructure. These findings highlight that successful implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum depends on the synergy between teachers’ competencies and institutional support.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

alsina

Publisher

Subject

Computer Science & IT Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Social Sciences

Description

Alsina : Journal of Arabic Studies, ISSN 2477-8117 (e) 2477-8109 (p) is published by the Arabic Language Learning Department, Fakultas Ilmu Tarbiyah dan Kependidikan, Universitas Islam Negeri (UIN) Walisongo Semarang. This journal focuses on theories and thoughts on Arabic studies in general. This ...