The Implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum: Impact on Students in Elementary Schools

Abstract

This study is based on the argument that changes in the curriculum bring both positive and negative impacts on students. The researcher aims to explore the effects experienced by primary school students. This research is a literature study using the Systematic Review (SR) method, also known as Systematic Literature Review (SLR), which is a systematic technique to collect, critically evaluate, integrate, and synthesize findings from various studies on a particular subject or research question. A total of 200 articles were screened, and 6 relevant articles were analyzed.Based on the analysis of the six reviewed journals, it can be concluded that the implementation of the Independent Curriculum in primary schools has diverse impacts on students. The positive impacts are reflected in increased motivation to learn, enthusiasm in participating in learning activities, and the development of student character through the Pancasila Student Profile Strengthening Project. This curriculum provides students with space to freely and enjoyably explore their interests and potentials, as well as encourages more varied and student-centered learning.However, on the other hand, the implementation of the Independent Curriculum also presents several challenges. Some of the negative impacts found include misuse of technology due to lack of supervision, students' unpreparedness to adapt to the new system, and disparities in mastery of materials among students. Moreover, the effectiveness of the Minimum Competency Assessment (AKM) and Character Survey is still suboptimal in fully depicting students’ abilities, and the policy of automatic grade promotion raises concerns about lowering academic achievement standards..