Journal of Innovation and Research in Primary Education

The Strategic Role of School Administration in Achieving Stakeholder Satisfaction

2025-11-18T06:32:40+07:00

This study examines the strategic role of school administration in achieving stakeholder satisfaction at the Indonesian School of Riyadh, an international institution serving the Indonesian diaspora in Saudi Arabia. Given the multicultural student population and the demands of maintaining Indonesian cultural identity while adhering to international educational standards, effective school administration plays a pivotal role in creating a conducive learning environment that supports holistic student development. This research employed a qualitative case study approach, utilizing semi-structured interviews with 55 participants (10 administrators, 15 teachers, 20 parents, and 10 students), focus group discussions, and comprehensive document analysis. The study found that 87% of teachers and 85% of parents reported high satisfaction with administrative communication and transparency, while 80% of students expressed positive perceptions regarding fairness in administrative policies. The findings reveal that effective administrative practices, characterized by transparent communication, equitable policy implementation, and proactive problem-solving approaches, significantly contribute to enhanced satisfaction levels among students, parents, and teachers. The study demonstrates that inclusive and collaborative leadership by the principal strengthens positive school climate, increases stakeholder engagement, and builds sustainable trust within the educational community. Furthermore, the research highlights the critical importance of implementing multicultural approaches in administrative practices to ensure cultural diversity is valued and embraced, thereby creating an inclusive educational environment. However, the study identified specific areas requiring improvement, including expanding opportunities for teacher participation in collaborative planning processes and providing more frequent and detailed updates on student academic progress to parents. These findings provide valuable insights for international schools seeking to optimize administrative practices to enhance educational quality and achieve comprehensive stakeholder satisfaction in multicultural educational contexts.

Using Cognitive Diagnostic Assessment to Inform Differentiated Instruction in Elementary Place Value Concepts

2025-11-18T06:32:51+07:00

Place value understanding is a fundamental prerequisite for advanced mathematical learning, yet elementary students often demonstrate heterogeneous comprehension that challenges uniform teaching approaches. This study examines the use of cognitive diagnostic assessment (CDA) to identify student learning profiles and inform differentiated instruction in Indonesian elementary mathematics. A mixed-methods descriptive design involved 12 fourth-grade students at SD Negeri Jubellor, East Java. Data were collected through structured interviews and a five-item diagnostic test on place value concepts. Psychometric properties were analyzed using ANATES, while student performance was categorized into high (≥98%), moderate (64–97%), and low (<64%) understanding levels. The assessment showed strong psychometric quality with item correlations between 0.815–0.876 (p<0.01) and high reliability (α=0.87). Difficulty analysis indicated balanced distribution, with one very easy item (20%) and four moderately difficult items (80%). Results revealed heterogeneous profiles: 25% low understanding, 42% moderate, and 33% high. Students with low understanding struggled with reading multi-digit numbers and place value beyond thousands. Those at the moderate level demonstrated competency up to ten thousands but faced difficulties at hundred thousands and contextual applications. High-achieving students mastered place value comprehensively, including real-world applications. These findings demonstrate that CDA not only identifies specific learning gaps but also provides actionable insights for planning targeted instructional pathways. Strengthening this diagnostic–instructional alignment is essential to ensure responsive teaching that supports all learner profiles, particularly in bridging conceptual gaps among students at the moderate and low understanding levels.

The Relationship Between Parental Involvement in Educational Planning and Children's Emotional Wellbeing During Middle Childhood

2025-10-08T09:26:41+07:00

Emotional wellbeing during middle childhood significantly influences long-term developmental outcomes, yet the relationship between parental involvement in school-based educational planning and children's emotional wellbeing remains underexplored. This study examined the correlation between parental involvement in educational planning at school and emotional wellbeing among children in middle childhood. A quantitative correlational design was employed with 140 parents of elementary school children (ages 6-12 years) in Cicalengka Sub-district, Bandung Regency, Indonesia. Data were collected via validated questionnaires measuring parental involvement in educational planning (35 items, α = 0.955) and children's emotional wellbeing across three dimensions: hope for the future, sense of control, and self-worth (17 items, α = 0.864). Spearman's rank-order correlation analysis was conducted to assess the relationship between variables. A statistically significant positive correlation was found between parental involvement in educational planning and children's emotional wellbeing (rho = 0.537, p < 0.01), indicating a moderate-strength relationship. Active parental participation in school-based educational planning is meaningfully associated with enhanced emotional wellbeing in elementary school children. These findings suggest that institutional mechanisms facilitating parental engagement in educational decision-making may yield benefits extending beyond academic achievement to encompass psychological wellbeing, informing educational policy and family-school partnership initiatives.

Teaching Factory Management for Entrepreneurial Competency Development

2025-11-18T06:39:11+07:00

Vocational education in the Fourth Industrial Revolution requires graduates with entrepreneurial competencies, yet Teaching Factory (TeFa) implementation in BLUD vocational schools remains suboptimal. This study examined TeFa management effectiveness in developing students' entrepreneurial competencies through George R. Terry's management framework (planning, organizing, actuating, controlling). A qualitative case study design was employed at SMKN 1 Pangandaran and SMKN 1 Banjar, Indonesia, involving 24 participants including principals, teachers, BLUD managers, industry partners, and students. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participatory observations (120 hours), and document analysis over six months (March-August 2024). Analysis followed Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña's interactive model with multiple triangulation strategies. Results revealed that while TeFa programs successfully enhanced students' technical and soft skills, entrepreneurial competency development remained inadequate across all management functions. Planning lacked comprehensive industry collaboration and entrepreneurship frameworks; organizing operated informally without standardized SOPs; implementation focused predominantly on technical skills; and controlling mechanisms neglected multidimensional entrepreneurial assessment. These deficiencies reflect insufficient teacher preparation, weak industry partnerships, and absent comprehensive evaluation frameworks. The study concludes that effective entrepreneurship-oriented TeFa requires formalized industry collaboration in planning, standardized SOPs, pedagogically sophisticated implementation integrating entrepreneurship throughout instruction, and validated multidimensional assessment systems. Findings contribute theoretical insights on implementation fidelity while offering practical recommendations for vocational education policy and management reform.

Managing Digital Media-Based Indonesian Language Learning to Enhance Literacy

2025-11-18T06:38:53+07:00

Despite the integration of digital technologies in education, Indonesian students' literacy remains concerning, with PISA 2022 showing only 25% achieving basic reading proficiency. This study investigates how digital media-based Indonesian language learning is managed through classical management functions to support literacy development. A qualitative multiple case study design was employed at two public senior high schools in different regional contexts. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with four teachers and twenty-four students, classroom observations across sixteen sessions, and document analysis. Thematic analysis was conducted using Terry's management framework encompassing planning, organizing, actuating, and controlling functions. Both schools implemented all four management functions but with different emphases. SMAN 1 Tegalwaru demonstrated high adaptive capacity through flexible planning and contingency strategies despite infrastructural limitations, while SMAN 1 Cikatomas exhibited more systematic procedural consistency. Critical gaps were identified in organizational documentation and supervision follow-up mechanisms across both sites. Unexpectedly, resource constraints at Tegalwaru stimulated independent digital literacy behaviors among students. Effective digital literacy development depends not merely on technological access but on the quality, adaptability, and systematization of learning management practices. Strengthening teachers' adaptive expertise, formalizing documentation processes, and establishing structured supervision feedback loops are essential for sustainable improvement.

Systematic Management of Character Education to Enhance Student Discipline Through School-Industry Collaboration

2025-11-18T06:38:37+07:00

The Fourth Industrial Revolution demands vocational graduates possess strong discipline alongside technical competencies, yet 25% experience employment difficulties due to weak work ethic rather than skill deficiencies. This qualitative multiple case study examined character education management at SMKN 1 Pangandaran and SMKS Taruna Bangsa Ciamis through observations, interviews, and document analysis. Data were analyzed using Miles and Huberman's framework with triangulation for validity. Management functions operated systematically: planning established four discipline indicators (punctuality, SOP/safety compliance, task responsibility, professional communication); organizing created cross-functional coordination with clear role delineation; implementation combined school-based habituation through Teaching Factory with authentic industrial practice during internships; evaluation employed the CIPP model using rubrics, logbooks, and industry reports. Punctuality improved from 68% to 89%, and safety compliance increased from 72% to 94% during internships. Barriers including teacher preparation gaps, cultural differences, and short internship duration were addressed through professional development, graduated transitions, and standardized assessment instruments. Findings demonstrate that systematic management frameworks effectively bridge school-industry contexts for discipline formation. The study extends social learning and experiential learning theories into vocational character education, providing actionable practices for educators and policymakers while identifying needs for longitudinal research and exploration of higher-order professional competencies.

Management of Digital Media Use in Integrating Local Wisdom in Elementary Schools

2025-11-18T06:34:59+07:00

The rapid integration of digital media in elementary education presents a paradox: while enhancing pedagogical delivery, it risks eroding local wisdom without systematic cultural intentionality. This study examines digital media management for local wisdom integration through the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) framework. Employing qualitative descriptive design, this research investigated practices at two purposively selected elementary schools in West Java, Indonesia. Data were collected through classroom observations (24 sessions), semi-structured interviews with principals and teachers (n=8), student interviews (n=12), and document analysis, then analyzed using Miles-Huberman procedures with source triangulation for trustworthiness. Findings reveal that while both schools successfully implement digital media with high student engagement (88%), local wisdom integration remains severely limited (8% of observed lessons). Analysis across PDCA phases demonstrates systematic gaps: planning lacks cultural grounding, implementation prioritizes generic content, evaluation focuses exclusively on academic outcomes while neglecting cultural dimensions, and follow-up emphasizes technical rather than culturally-responsive pedagogical development. Teachers demonstrate reasonable technical proficiency but lack conceptual frameworks for bridging technology and culture. Results indicate incomplete PDCA implementation characterized by "technology-first" rather than "purpose-first" planning, creating digital cultural displacement. The study contributes theoretically by introducing "cultural intentionality" as essential for effective digital media management and practically by demonstrating that infrastructure investment without culturally-informed pedagogical capacity building risks accelerating cultural homogenization. Future research should pursue longitudinal investigations and participatory approaches engaging communities in co-designing culturally-responsive digital resources.

Systematic Management of Character-Based Arts Extracurricular Activities

2025-11-18T06:34:33+07:00

Character-based arts extracurricular activities represent promising interventions for holistic student development, yet limited research examines their systematic management and relationship to academic achievement in resource-constrained elementary school contexts. This study investigated the management practices of character-based arts extracurricular activities and their influence on student academic achievement in two Indonesian elementary schools. Employing a qualitative descriptive case study design, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with school administrators, teachers, and parents; systematic observations of extracurricular activities; and document analysis of program materials and evaluation reports at SDN Citamiang 1 and SDN Karang Tengah in Sukabumi City. Thematic analysis examined management practices across planning, organizing, implementing, and evaluating dimensions. Both schools demonstrated systematic management approaches integrating character education within arts instruction through experiential learning, explicit reflection practices, and stakeholder collaboration. Students participating consistently for two or more semesters showed enhanced academic performance and character development in discipline, responsibility, and teamwork. Implementation challenges included qualified instructor shortages and material resource constraints, addressed through community partnerships, creative pedagogical adaptations, and enhanced parent engagement. Systematic management of character-based arts extracurricular activities effectively facilitates character development and academic achievement enhancement despite resource limitations. Findings provide replicable models for schools seeking to implement integrated arts-character programs while highlighting the importance of sustained participation, institutional adaptability, and multi-stakeholder collaboration for program success.

Beyond Resource Constraints: How Participatory Management Practices Foster Teacher Pedagogical Competence

2025-11-18T06:38:18+07:00

Educational quality in integrated junior high schools operating under severe resource constraints remains critically dependent on effective principal management, yet systematic understanding of how principals successfully foster teacher pedagogical competence development in such contexts remains limited. This study examined principal management practices in improving teacher pedagogical competence at integrated junior high schools through planning, organizing, actuating, and controlling functions. A qualitative case study approach was employed at two purposively selected integrated junior high schools in Purwakarta Regency, Indonesia. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 18 participants (principals, vice principals, teachers, and students), participant observation, and document analysis. Data analysis followed Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña's interactive model, with triangulation ensuring credibility. Findings revealed substantial differences between schools despite similar resource limitations. SMPN Satu Atap Cileunca's participatory planning, distributed organizational structures, systematic implementation, and documented evaluation fostered greater teacher agency and professional development compared to SMPN Satu Atap Panyindangan's centralized, informal approach. Key differentiating factors included collaborative planning processes, peer learning structures, consistent supervisory practices, and systematic documentation. Management effectiveness in resource-constrained contexts depends fundamentally on participatory, adaptive approaches rather than resource abundance. Strategic management practices emphasizing collaboration and systematic improvement can successfully cultivate teacher pedagogical competence even under severe constraints, challenging deficit-oriented perspectives and offering actionable guidance for principals, supervisors, and policymakers in developing contexts.

Enhancing Graduate Competitiveness Through PDCA-Driven Curriculum Management

2025-11-18T06:35:58+07:00

Vocational education must respond dynamically to evolving industry demands through systematic curriculum management. The Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) framework offers potential for continuous improvement, yet its application in resource-limited vocational schools remains underexplored. This qualitative case study examined PDCA implementation at SMK Mathla'ul Anwar Margahayu through in-depth interviews with school leaders (n=2), teachers (n=6), and industry partners (n=4), complemented by classroom observations and curriculum document analysis. Data were analyzed using Miles and Huberman's interactive model with triangulation ensuring trustworthiness. PDCA implementation demonstrated systematic improvements across all stages: industry-informed planning through structured stakeholder engagement, authentic implementation integrating Teaching Factory and Product-Based Learning (87.5% of lessons), reflective criteria-based evaluation with 78% of student products meeting industry standards, and evidence-based curriculum revisions. Five enabling factors emerged—visionary leadership, strategic partnerships, teacher professionalization, data-driven culture, and policy support—while four constraints were identified: infrastructure limitations, resource insufficiencies, teacher workload, and diverse industry requirements. Findings advance theoretical understanding by introducing "structured flexibility" in curriculum management, demonstrating how industrial quality frameworks adapt to educational contexts. PDCA proves effective when supported by enabling conditions, though sustainability requires systemic resource investment. The study offers replicable models for curriculum-industry collaboration applicable across diverse vocational education settings in the Industry 4.0 and Society 5.0 era.

Strategies of Education and Cultural Attaché in Enhancing Educational Quality at Indonesian School Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

2025-11-18T19:45:45+07:00

The role of Education and Cultural Attachés (Atdikbud) in managing Indonesian Schools Abroad (SILN) has become increasingly critical in maintaining educational quality for Indonesian citizens overseas. This study examines the strategic approaches employed by Atdikbud at the Indonesian Embassy in Riyadh to enhance educational quality at Sekolah Indonesia Riyadh (SIR). This research aims to analyze the strategies implemented by Atdikbud in improving educational quality, identify challenges encountered, and explore solutions applied in managing SILN within a multicultural context. Employing a qualitative case study approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews with Atdikbud, school principals, teachers, and parent representatives at SIR, complemented by direct observations and document analysis. Data analysis utilized the Miles and Huberman interactive model, incorporating data condensation, data display, conclusion drawing, and verification through triangulation. Findings reveal that Atdikbud implements five primary strategies: (1) policy harmonization between Indonesian and Saudi educational systems, (2) continuous professional development for educators, (3) infrastructure optimization through diplomatic channels, (4) cultural diplomacy integration in curriculum, and (5) stakeholder collaboration enhancement. Major challenges include resource limitations, cultural adaptation barriers, and bureaucratic complexities. Innovative solutions involve technology utilization, local community partnerships, and flexible policy implementation. In conclusion, atdikbud plays a pivotal strategic role in supporting Indonesian education abroad through adaptive leadership, cultural sensitivity, and diplomatic coordination. The study recommends strengthening inter-ministerial coordination, increasing resource allocation for SILN, and developing context-specific guidelines for educational diplomacy in multicultural settings.

Teacher Digital Literacy and Merdeka Curriculum Readiness

2025-11-18T19:45:39+07:00

The global education crisis demands that teachers possess competent digital literacy as a prerequisite for implementing the Merdeka Curriculum and preparing students for 21st-century challenges. However, despite strong policy emphasis on digital literacy and Learning Communities, empirical evidence of their interrelationship in Indonesian secondary school contexts remains limited. This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of Learning Communities as a mechanism for teacher professional development, the level of teacher digital literacy, and the evaluation of the school's digital climate in supporting the synergy between the two. This research uses a descriptive quantitative approach with a cross-sectional survey design, based on data from 39 Junior High School teachers across two work units (SMPN 2 Dawarblandong and SMPN 2 Mojosari). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics including means, standard deviations, and comparative analysis between schools. The results show that the Learning Community dimension proved highly effective with an average score of 4.78, serving as a core pillar for professional development and teacher self-reflection. The strongest indicator lies in the Learning Communities' ability to help teachers identify strengths and weaknesses in their teaching practices, achieving a score of 4.92. However, the Teacher Digital Literacy dimension recorded the lowest average score of 4.47, with the routine use of Google Classroom as the lowest indicator at 4.23. While leadership support in facilitating Learning Communities is very high at 4.90, formal recognition related to digital innovation by school principals remains moderate at 4.28. It is concluded that Learning Communities have established a strong foundation for collaboration, but there is a significant gap between non-technical collaborative readiness and routine technology adoption. Schools need to reorient Learning Communities to focus on operational technical training and strengthen the recognition system to encourage continuous digital integration in implementing the Merdeka Curriculum.

Reconceptualizing Cultural Character Education: Integrating Futuristic Pedagogy for Generation Alpha's Local Cultural Preservation

2025-11-18T19:45:55+07:00

Generation Alpha, born entirely within the digital ecosystem, faces unprecedented challenges in maintaining connection to local cultural heritage while navigating technology-saturated learning environments. This study explores how futuristic pedagogy can effectively cultivate love for local culture among Generation Alpha students in elementary education. A systematic literature review analyzed 47 peer-reviewed publications from 2020-2025, employing purposive sampling and Miles and Huberman's analytical framework comprising data collection, presentation, reduction, and conclusion drawing. Three critical findings emerged: futuristic pedagogy encompasses six interconnected elements balancing technological competencies with character development; Generation Alpha exhibits seven distinctive characteristics including productive global-local cultural tension; and technology-enhanced strategies, particularly augmented reality applications, effectively bridge digital engagement with cultural authenticity. Analysis revealed that successful cultural character education requires intentional integration of immersive technologies, gamified learning, digital storytelling, and collaborative projects that position students as cultural co-creators. The findings reconceptualize cultural character education as digitally mediated process requiring strategic integration of technological, cultural, and developmental dimensions. While technology contributes to cultural displacement, appropriately designed digital learning experiences can serve as powerful tools for cultural preservation. Future research should conduct longitudinal studies establishing causal relationships and investigate adaptations for diverse Indonesian contexts.

Canva Media Implementation for Enhancing Grade Four Civic Education Learning Outcomes

2025-11-18T19:45:49+07:00

Traditional teaching methods in Pancasila and Civic Education (PPKn) often result in passive learning and low student engagement, particularly in rural elementary schools. This study investigated the effectiveness of Canva media implementation in enhancing fourth-grade students' PPKn learning outcomes at SDN 2 Dolo. A Classroom Action Research design following the Kemmis and McTaggart model was employed across two intervention cycles. Thirteen fourth-grade students (8 males, 5 females) participated in the study. Data were collected through pre-tests, post-tests, structured observation sheets for teacher and student activities, and documentation. Quantitative data were analyzed using individual and classical absorption capacity formulas, while qualitative data were analyzed descriptively and categorized. Student mastery rates increased substantially from 15.38% (pre-test) to 38.46% (Cycle I) and 92.30% (Cycle II), with class average scores improving from 58.46 to 86.15. Teacher activity improved from 69.53% (Fair) to 93.75% (Very Good), while student engagement increased from 76.78% (Good) to 94.64% (Very Good). Classical learning completeness in Cycle II (92.30%) exceeded the 75% success criterion. Systematic implementation of Canva media significantly enhances PPKn learning outcomes by transforming abstract civic concepts into concrete, visual, and interactive learning experiences. The cyclical action research approach proved effective for instructional improvement and teacher professional development.

Teacher Performance Management in Improving Learning Achievement of Elementary School Students

2025-12-10T19:12:23+07:00

Suboptimal teacher performance management implementation contributes to persistent low student achievement in Indonesian elementary education, yet limited research examines how contextual variations shape management effectiveness in resource-constrained rural settings. This qualitative comparative case study investigated teacher performance management across Armstrong's five-stage framework (planning, implementation, monitoring, assessment, follow-up) at two elementary schools in Naringgul District, Cianjur Regency. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with principals, teachers, and students; participatory classroom observations; and document analysis, then analyzed using Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña's interactive model. Both schools implemented all performance management stages systematically, though with distinct approaches: SDN Mulyasari employed backward design planning and spontaneous differentiated instruction despite infrastructure limitations, achieving 65% student competency attainment, while SDN Tegallame utilized behavioral objectives planning and programmatic differentiation with superior technology integration, achieving 75% attainment. The study revealed effective monitoring requires "nested feedback loops" combining classroom-level formative assessment with school-level clinical supervision. However, a critical implementation gap emerged: weak linkage between performance evaluation outcomes and targeted professional development interventions in both schools. Findings demonstrate that effective performance management permits multiple valid instantiations shaped by context, with pedagogical adaptability partially compensating for resource constraints. The research advances theoretical understanding by conceptualizing monitoring as synergistic multilevel systems while identifying the evaluation-to-development gap as a key barrier to transformative impact, suggesting educational leaders must prioritize systemic integration and establish explicit pathways connecting assessment to focused professional learning.

The Role of Elementary Teachers in Visual Arts Instruction

2025-11-18T19:46:01+07:00

This study examines the multidimensional roles teachers perform in Visual Arts instruction for fifth-grade students within the Merdeka Curriculum framework at SD Inpres 1 Talise, a post-disaster educational context in Palu, Indonesia. Employing qualitative descriptive methodology, data were collected through classroom observations, semi-structured teacher interviews, and student questionnaires (n=23) measuring perceptions of teacher effectiveness across 20 items. Results revealed that teachers simultaneously enact three primary roles: educator (20.65% of positive responses), facilitator, and motivator, achieving an overall effectiveness rating of 71.56% despite significant resource constraints. Interview data documented sophisticated pedagogical strategies including character modeling, project-based facilitation, and differentiated motivation techniques. However, persistent challenges emerged including limited facilities, constrained instructional time, and inadequate professional development. Unexpectedly, students demonstrated creative adaptation to resource scarcity through material improvisation and peer mentoring. The findings extend existing literature by demonstrating that moral development remains central to arts education even within student-centered curricula, while revealing how teachers in resource-constrained post-disaster contexts employ adaptive strategies to fulfill complex pedagogical responsibilities. This research contributes empirical evidence for developing targeted teacher professional development, schedule restructuring, and infrastructure investment policies that recognize arts education as critical educational and therapeutic infrastructure, particularly in disaster-affected communities.

Management Facilities and Infrastructure in Improving Quality Learning at Elementary School

2025-12-10T19:12:47+07:00

Effective facilities and infrastructure management is critical for educational quality, yet many elementary schools in rural areas face significant resource constraints that impede optimal facility utilization. This study examines how Planning, Organizing, Actuating, and Controlling (POAC) management principles are implemented to optimize facilities and infrastructure in improving learning quality at two elementary schools with contrasting institutional characteristics. A qualitative descriptive case study was conducted at SDN Cinangsi (public) and MIS Sukamulya (foundation-based private) in Cianjur Regency, Indonesia. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with principals, teachers, and students, systematic observations, and documentary analysis. Data analysis employed Miles and Huberman's interactive model with triangulation to ensure validity.

Both schools implemented systematic POAC-based management despite resource limitations. Planning involved participatory needs assessment and strategic prioritization. Organization utilized adaptive strategies including manual inventory systems with practical solutions. Implementation emphasized teacher creativity in developing improvised instructional materials. Supervision focused on administrative compliance but inadequately assessed pedagogical impact. Systematic facilities management through POAC principles, combined with stakeholder collaboration and teacher improvisation, enables resource-constrained schools to optimize facility utilization and support learning quality. However, supervision systems require enhancement to evaluate facility impacts on educational outcomes effectively.

The Effectiveness of Powtoon Animated Media in Improving Early Reading Skills Among Second-Grade Students

2025-11-18T19:46:07+07:00

Early literacy acquisition remains challenging in Indonesian elementary schools where conventional teaching methods predominate. This study investigated the effectiveness of Powtoon-based animated image media in enhancing initial reading abilities among second-grade students. Employing classroom action research methodology, the study involved 25 students at SD Inpres Bumi Sagu across two intervention cycles during August 2025. Data were collected through pre-tests, post-tests, structured observations, and interviews. Quantitative analysis calculated individual absorption capacity, classical learning completeness, and classical absorption capacity, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. Findings demonstrated substantial improvements across intervention cycles. Classical completeness increased from 36% (pre-action) to 64% (Cycle I) and 84% (Cycle II), while mean reading scores advanced from 63.2 to 68.0 and finally 76.0. Teacher activity observations progressed from 75.75% to 85% (very good category), and student engagement increased from 70% to 81.25% (very good category). Qualitative observations revealed heightened motivation, sustained attention, and 92% student preference for animated instruction. Unexpectedly, students with stronger phonemic awareness foundations exhibited greater gains than those with severe literacy deficits. Results support cognitive theory of multimedia learning, demonstrating that animated media enhances literacy outcomes through dual-channel processing while improving engagement. The intervention proves effective as an enhancement tool requiring strategic integration with explicit phonics instruction for struggling readers.

Systematic Curriculum Management and Teacher Performance Development

2025-12-10T19:13:17+07:00

The implementation of Indonesia's Merdeka Curriculum faces significant challenges in rural schools, particularly regarding teacher performance affected by limited infrastructure and uneven competencies. This study examined how systematic curriculum management through the PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) cycle influences teacher performance development in two rural junior high schools. A qualitative comparative case study was conducted at SMPN 2 Naringgul and SMPN 3 Naringgul, Cianjur Regency, involving 4 school leaders and 28 teachers. Data were collected through observations (84 lessons), in-depth interviews, and document analysis over six months, then analyzed using Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña's interactive model. Both schools successfully implemented varied teaching methods (75% of lessons) and created positive learning environments (89.5%), though digital technology integration remained weak (17.5%). SMPN 2 faced internal-psychological challenges with teacher confidence, while SMPN 3 confronted systemic infrastructure limitations. Academic supervision, formative assessment, and teacher reflection forums functioned effectively, yet documentation practices and systematic follow-up remained inconsistent. Findings demonstrate that PDCA-based curriculum management improves teacher performance when appropriately contextualized, though success depends on addressing both structural constraints and teacher self-efficacy simultaneously. The emergence of organic teacher leadership and adaptive management strategies proved crucial for implementation success. Results underscore the necessity of differentiated support approaches, job-embedded professional development, and sustained multi-year commitments to technology integration in resource-constrained rural contexts.

Analysis of Learning Difficulties of Grade IV Elementary School Students on Fractal Materials Reviewed from Numeracy Ability and Self-Efficacy

2025-11-20T05:28:15+07:00

Difficulty understanding the concept of fractions is still a major challenge for elementary school students and has an impact on numeracy skills and self-efficacy in learning mathematics. This study aims to analyze the learning difficulties of grade IV students of SD Muhammadiyah 1 Taman on fractional material reviewed from numeracy ability and self-efficacy. The research method used a quantitative descriptive approach involving 25 students of grade IV A. Data were collected through numeracy ability tests, Bandura scale-based self-efficacy questionnaires, and structured interviews. The results showed that students' numeracy ability was in the medium category with an average achievement of 56.8%, with dominant difficulties in the aspects of fraction comparison (42%) and mixed fraction counting operations (38%). Student self-efficacy was also moderately (62.7%), with the magnitude dimension obtaining the lowest score (56%). The Pearson correlation test showed a strong positive relationship between numeracy ability and self-efficacy (r = 0.724; p < 0.01), while regression analysis showed a 52.4% contribution to numeracy ability to self-efficacy. The results of the interviews confirmed that students better understand the concept of fractions through concrete media and contextual learning. This study recommends the application of ethnomathematics-based fractional learning model with a strategy of increasing self-efficacy through positive reinforcement and scaffolding.

Managing Infographic-Mediated Indonesian Language Instruction to Improve Elementary Students' Procedural Writing Skills

2025-12-10T19:14:33+07:00

Elementary students frequently encounter challenges in developing writing proficiency due to inadequate instructional strategies and limited engagement with conventional text-based approaches. This study examined the management of Indonesian language instruction incorporating infographic media to enhance elementary students' procedural writing skills through systematic PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) cycle implementation. A qualitative multiple case study was conducted at two elementary schools (SDN Sindanglaya and SDN Panagan) in Cianjur Regency, Indonesia. Data were collected through classroom observations (24 sessions), semi-structured interviews with teachers (n=4), principals (n=2), and students (n=48), and document analysis of instructional artifacts. Data analysis followed Miles et al.'s systematic procedures encompassing data reduction, display, and conclusion drawing with cross-case comparison. Findings revealed that structured infographic-based instructional management significantly improved students' writing quality (34% average improvement) with particularly substantial gains in structural organization (47%). Student engagement during infographic activities (78%) substantially exceeded traditional instruction (52%). Teachers demonstrated pedagogical adaptability despite technological constraints, while systematic evaluation and continuous improvement processes enhanced instructional effectiveness. PDCA-based management of infographic-mediated instruction represents an effective, evidence-based approach for enhancing elementary writing instruction when implemented through comprehensive frameworks encompassing rigorous planning, adaptive pedagogy, systematic evaluation, and continuous refinement that balance innovation with pragmatic implementation realities.

Elementary Students' Difficulties in Adding Fractions

2025-11-20T05:28:40+07:00

This study analyzes elementary students’ difficulties in understanding fraction addition through the framework of computational thinking (CT). Fractions are widely recognized as one of the most challenging mathematical concepts for young learners due to their abstract nature and multiple representations. The purpose of this study is to identify students’ specific difficulties across the four CT dimensions; decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction, and algorithmic thinking in the context of fractional addition. The research employed a qualitative descriptive design involving 19 sixth-grade students from an elementary school in Mojokerto, Indonesia. Data were collected through classroom observations, diagnostic tests, and semi-structured interviews. Findings show that 78.9% of students struggled with abstraction, 73.7% with decomposition, 68.4% with algorithmic thinking, and 63.2% with pattern recognition. Students frequently applied whole-number reasoning, failed to identify equivalence patterns, and were unable to construct systematic solution procedures. These results indicate that students’ difficulties are multidimensional and stem from insufficient scaffolding in linking conceptual understanding with procedural fluency. The study suggests that CT-based instructional strategies can strengthen students’ structural reasoning and support deeper learning of fraction concepts.

Cultivating Disciplinary Character Through Structured Assignment Management

2025-12-10T19:16:08+07:00

Discipline formation in elementary education faces challenges from inadequate instructional planning, limited parental involvement, and adverse socioeconomic conditions. This study examines the effectiveness of structured assignment management through the POAC (Planning, Organizing, Actuating, Controlling) framework in cultivating disciplinary character among elementary students. A qualitative case study was conducted at two elementary schools in West Jakarta involving school principals (n=2), teachers (n=8), and students (n=24). Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, systematic observations, and documentary analysis, then analyzed inductively with triangulation procedures to ensure credibility. Findings revealed significant implementation variations between schools. Comprehensive POAC application—characterized by systematic planning, coordinated organization, consistent execution, and rigorous evaluation—effectively enhanced student discipline, manifested through improved assignment completion rates, punctuality, and rule compliance. Conversely, partial implementation yielded suboptimal outcomes. Unexpectedly, institutional support mechanisms partially compensated for socioeconomic disadvantages when systematically delivered. Structured assignment management operationalized through POAC constitutes an effective strategy for disciplinary character development, with implementation fidelity determining intervention success. Findings contribute empirical evidence bridging educational management theory and character education practice, informing policy regarding resource allocation, professional development, and family-school partnerships necessary for sustained disciplinary cultivation.

Improving Elementary School Students' Digital Literacy through Culture-Responsive Canva-Based Science Learning

2025-11-23T06:03:45+07:00

This study aims to describe the implementation of Canva's culturally responsive use in science learning and its effectiveness in improving elementary school students' digital literacy. The study involved 90 fourth-grade students from four elementary schools in the Andang Taruna Banyumas Cluster. This study is a descriptive qualitative study with an ethnopedagogical approach and a case study method conducted through observation, interviews, and documentation studies. The results showed that the initial level of students' digital literacy was still basic to moderate. The implementation of culture-responsive Canva in science learning was carried out through systematic planning, implementation, and evaluation. This implementation was able to improve digital literacy, as seen from several indicators, including Functional Skill and Beyond, Creativity, Collaboration, Communication, The Ability to Find and Select Information, Critical Thinking and Evaluation, Cultural and Social Understanding, and E-safety. Learning in elementary schools became more interactive, contextual, and relevant to the culture of students in Banyumas. This encouraged active student participation and improved understanding of the learning material. The findings of this study confirm that Canva, which is responsive to culture, improves the digital literacy of elementary school students. These findings also show a positive synergy between technology and culture in learning. However, this study also has limitations in terms of internet network quality and differences in the initial abilities of elementary school students. Further research is recommended to develop a culture-based digital learning model for other subjects so that it can support the digital infrastructure in schools to be more optimal.

Improving Elementary School Students' Critical Thinking Skills Through Wordwall-Based Learning Integrated with Banyumas Local Wisdom

2025-11-23T06:03:51+07:00

This article aims to analyze the improvement of elementary school students' critical thinking skills through science learning using word walls and integrated with Banyumas local wisdom. This research is descriptive qualitative research with an ethnopedagogical approach and case study method. The research uses data obtained from observation, interviews, and documentation studies. The data came from 100 fourth-grade students from four schools in the Kencana Cluster. The data was then analyzed using Miles and Huberman's triangulation model. Data validity was determined through credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability. The results showed that the initial critical thinking skills were in the adequate category. The weaknesses were mainly in the basic support and conclusion drawing indicators. After learning science using word walls integrated with Banyumas local wisdom, there was an increase in the informants' involvement in learning. Teachers also stated that students were better able to give reasons, connect the context of the material with Banyumas local wisdom, and conclude information more accurately. The findings of this study indicate that Wordwall integrated with Banyumas local wisdom improves the critical thinking skills of elementary school students. This study emphasizes the importance of integrating local wisdom into science learning, which is an implementation of Merdeka Belajar (Freedom of Learning). However, this study has limitations in terms of the number of informants and was only conducted in one subject. It is recommended to expand the sample and test Wordwall in other subjects.

The Effectiveness of Differentiated Learning in Indonesian Language Subjects at Elementary Schools

2025-11-24T19:28:51+07:00

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated learning losses in literacy, necessitating effective pedagogical interventions. This study investigated differentiated instruction effectiveness within Indonesia's Merdeka Curriculum framework for sixth-grade Indonesian language education. A qualitative multiple-case study was conducted from March to May 2025 at two Sekolah Penggerak elementary schools in Central Java, Indonesia, involving 26 students and two teachers. Data collection employed document analysis of teaching modules, semi-structured interviews, and systematic classroom observations. Analysis followed the Miles and Huberman interactive model with triangulation to ensure credibility. Both teachers achieved "Very Good" ratings in module development (score: 40/44) through continuous diagnostic assessment and iterative refinement. Implementation revealed two equally effective pedagogical models: humanistic-contextual and systematic-technological approaches. Student outcomes demonstrated dramatic improvement, with classical mastery rising from baseline rates of 40-44% to 100% across cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains. Mean cognitive scores reached 85.6 and 84.5, while maintaining individual growth trajectories. Findings extend differentiated instruction theory by demonstrating its effective integration with post-pandemic curriculum reform. Results affirm that strategic differentiation accommodates diverse pedagogical expressions while simultaneously achieving educational equity and excellence. Persistent challenges in character education integration and heterogeneous socio-emotional development indicate areas requiring sustained intervention. Future research should investigate scalability across diverse school contexts using mixed-methods designs with standardized measures.

Teachers' Intervention Strategies for Reading Difficulties Among Second-Grade Students

2025-11-20T05:28:51+07:00

Reading difficulties among early-grade students constitute a critical concern in Indonesian primary education, yet empirical documentation of teachers' intervention practices in authentic classroom settings remains limited. This qualitative case study examined teachers' efforts in addressing reading difficulties among four second-grade students at SD Negeri Beka, employing observations, semi-structured interviews, and documentation analysis over two academic semesters. Data were analyzed using Miles and Huberman's framework, with triangulation ensuring trustworthiness. Three primary factors contributed to reading difficulties: phonological awareness deficits (letter recognition and decoding challenges), limited parental support and home literacy environments, and motivational challenges. Teachers implemented multiple interventions including picture word cards for multisensory instruction, daily supplementary reading sessions providing additional instructional time, and provision of developmentally appropriate materials with large print and illustrations. Longitudinal observations documented gradual improvements in students' decoding accuracy, reading fluency, and self-efficacy, though progress remained incomplete and varied across individual learners. While teachers demonstrated commitment and creativity, gaps existed between implemented practices and evidence-based intervention components, particularly regarding explicit systematic phonics instruction and progress monitoring. Findings underscore the need for professional development programs equipping Indonesian teachers with research-validated intervention strategies while building upon existing pedagogical strengths and contextual awareness.

The Religious Values of Congklak as the Basis for Character Education Strategies in Elementary Schools

2025-12-08T19:57:19+07:00

The limited integration of traditional games as systematic strategies for religious character education in elementary schools indicates a gap between local cultural heritage potential and classroom practices. Congklak, though familiar to Indonesian children, has rarely been examined as a medium for embedding religious values within character education strategies. This study identifies religious values embedded in congklak and examines their relevance as foundations for developing religious character education strategies in elementary schools. A descriptive qualitative approach was employed, with data collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews with an academic expert and cultural practitioner, complemented by literature review. Thematic analysis identified recurring values, which were triangulated across sources to ensure credibility. Five core religious values were identified: honesty (moving seeds accurately without supervision), patience (turn-taking and accepting outcomes), empathy (comforting peers), sportsmanship (accepting victory and defeat with humility), and gratitude (acknowledging outcomes). These values emerge naturally through game mechanics and player interactions rather than explicit instruction. Congklak functions as a culturally grounded, experiential medium for internalizing religious values. When integrated into curriculum with guided reflection, it offers elementary teachers a contextual, engaging pedagogical strategy for religious character development. Future research should examine classroom implementation effectiveness through empirical longitudinal studies.

Smart Apps Creator-Based Digital Media and Elementary Science Achievement

2025-11-20T05:29:01+07:00

The integration of digital technology in elementary science education remains limited in rural Indonesian schools, where conventional lecture-based instruction predominates and student learning outcomes are suboptimal. This study investigated the effect of Smart Apps Creator-based digital media on fifth-grade students' science learning outcomes at Sintuwulemba State Elementary School, Poso Regency. A quasi-experimental one-group pretest-posttest design was employed with 25 fifth-grade students. Participants completed a validated 20-item multiple-choice achievement test before and after a four-week intervention involving interactive digital media incorporating visual animations, simulations, instructional videos, and formative assessments. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and paired-samples t-test. The intervention produced a significant improvement in learning outcomes, with mean scores increasing from 61.56 (SD = 2.45) to 83.04 (SD = 1.70), representing a 34.9% gain (t = 28.63, df = 24, p < 0.001, Cohen's d = 10.21). The intervention proved equally effective across all initial achievement levels, demonstrating no correlation between pretest scores and improvement magnitude. Smart Apps Creator-based digital media significantly enhances elementary science learning outcomes through multimodal content delivery and interactive engagement. These findings support technology integration in rural schools as an equity-enhancing pedagogical strategy, though randomized controlled trials with extended follow-up periods are needed to establish long-term effectiveness and generalizability.

Coaching-Based Academic Supervision Management Using the Tirta Model to Improve Teachers' Pedagogical Competence

2025-12-10T19:18:30+07:00

Teachers' pedagogical competence remains a critical challenge in Indonesian elementary education despite various professional development initiatives. Traditional evaluative supervision approaches have proven insufficient in fostering sustainable teacher development. This study examined the implementation of coaching-based academic supervision using the TIRTA (Goals, Identification, Action Plan, Responsibility, Appreciation) model to enhance teachers' pedagogical competence in elementary schools. A descriptive qualitative case study was conducted at SDN Pancawangi and SDN Sindangjaya in Cianjur Regency, West Java. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with principals and teachers, participatory observations of supervision sessions, and analysis of supervision documents. Data analysis followed Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña's interactive model, with trustworthiness established through triangulation and member checking. Findings revealed that TIRTA-based supervision was implemented systematically through collaborative planning (participatory needs assessment, SMART goals), structured five-stage implementation (reflective dialogue, co-constructed action plans, mutual accountability), comprehensive evaluation (82% target achievement, constructive feedback), and sustained follow-up (continuous monitoring, progressive competency development). The coaching approach transformed supervision relationships from evaluative to developmental, creating psychological safety and cultivating teachers' autonomous motivation and self-directed learning capacities. The TIRTA model effectively operationalizes adult learning theory, coaching principles, and self-determination theory, offering promising direction for sustainable teacher professional development in elementary education contexts.

Using YouTube to Enhance Elementary Students’ Motivation and Participation in Integrated Science and Social Studies Learning

2025-11-20T05:29:08+07:00

This study aims to analyze the impact of YouTube media on enhancing students’ learning motivation and participation in Science and Social Studies (IPAS) learning at the elementary school level. Employing a Classroom Action Research (CAR) design over two cycles—each consisting of planning, action, observation, and reflection—the study involved 16 fifth-grade students from Izzatul Islam Elementary School, Muaro Jambi Regency. Data were collected using observation sheets, learning motivation questionnaires, and field notes, and analyzed through descriptive quantitative and qualitative techniques. The results showed improvements of 27% in learning motivation and 31% in active participation. Descriptive statistical analysis indicated that these increases were meaningful, and further significance testing using the paired-sample t-test confirmed that the improvements in both motivation and participation were statistically significant (p < 0.05). Students exhibited enhanced attention, curiosity, confidence, and engagement in collaborative discussions after the integration of YouTube-based videos. Overall, the findings suggest that YouTube is an effective digital medium for strengthening students’ affective and social learning aspects while promoting active engagement in the context of digital-era education.

The Influence of Principal Transformational Leadership and Work Climate on Primary School Teacher Performance

2025-12-09T19:45:22+07:00

This study aims to analyze the influence of transformational leadership of school principals and work climate on the performance of elementary school teachers in Plered District, Purwakarta Regency. The transformational leadership of the principal is considered the main factor that can create an inspiring and supportive work environment, while a conducive work climate plays a role in increasing the motivation and productivity of teachers in carrying out their duties. This study uses a quantitative approach with a correlational survey method to analyze the relationship between the principal's transformational leadership, work climate, and teacher performance. The research was carried out in an elementary school in Plered District, Purwakarta Regency with a population of 273 teachers. The sample of 152 respondents was determined through proportional random sampling. The research variables included transformational leadership, work climate, and teacher performance. Data was collected using a Likert scale questionnaire that has been tested for validity and reliability. Data analysis was carried out through descriptive statistics, prerequisite tests, correlations, determination coefficients, hypothesis tests with ANOVA, and linear regression using SPSS. The descriptive results showed that the teacher's performance was in the Good category with a general tendency of strong professionalism. Transformational leadership is also in the Good category with strength in inspirational motivation, while the work climate is considered conducive and stable. In terms of influence, transformational leadership contributes significantly to teacher performance by 82.3%, the work climate affects 77.3%, and transformational leadership affects the work climate by 74.1%. Simultaneously, transformational leadership and work climate explain 86.1% of teacher performance variations. The implications of the study confirm the importance of strengthening visionary leadership, collaborative culture, and teacher participation in decision-making. Suggestions are given to the education office, supervisors, principals, teachers, academics, and researchers to develop coaching programs, reflective supervision, as well as improve professionalism and collaboration based on the needs of elementary schools on a sustainable basis.

Problem-Based Learning with Environmental Integration: An Action Research Study on Fifth-Grade Indonesian Language Achievement

2025-11-20T05:29:16+07:00

Student learning outcomes in Indonesian language subjects remain suboptimal in rural elementary schools, necessitating pedagogical innovations that leverage locally available resources. This study examined the effectiveness of implementing a Problem-Based Learning (PBL) model assisted by environmental resources in improving Indonesian language learning outcomes among fifth-grade students. This classroom action research employed the Kemmis and McTaggart spiral model across two cycles at SDN 3 Sirenja, involving nine fifth-grade students. Data were collected through structured observation protocols documenting teacher and student activities, field notes, and criterion-referenced achievement tests. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics to determine individual absorption rates and classical learning mastery, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis following Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña's framework. Classical learning completeness increased dramatically from 11.11% at baseline to 88.88% in Cycle II, exceeding the institutional standard of 80%. Classical absorption rates improved from 32.22% to 80%, while teacher activity increased from 80.64% to 87.17% and student activity rose from 71.42% to 87.90%, indicating transformed classroom dynamics. The findings demonstrate that environment-assisted PBL significantly enhances Indonesian language learning in rural contexts by transforming passive instruction into active, student-centered learning. This approach offers a sustainable pedagogical model for resource-constrained schools, leveraging local environmental resources rather than requiring expensive materials or technology infrastructure.

The Influence of Principal Instructional Leadership and Teacher Work Motivation on Elementary School Teacher's Teaching Performance

2025-12-09T20:21:27+07:00

This study aims to analyze the influence of instructional leadership of school principals and teachers' work motivation for the teaching performance of elementary school teachers in Tegalwaru District, Purwakarta Regency. The approach used is quantitative with correlation and multiple regression methods. The study population included 237 teachers from 25 elementary schools, with a sample of 142 teachers determined through proportional random sampling techniques. Data was collected using a five-point Likert scale questionnaire that has been tested for validity and reliability. Data analysis was carried out with the help of SPSS 24 through descriptive statistics, prerequisite tests, correlation tests, determination coefficients, F tests and t tests, as well as the preparation of regression equations. The results showed that instructional leadership had a significant effect on teaching performance with a contribution of 43.6%, work motivation had a significant effect with a contribution of 30%, and simultaneously both explained 47.6% of teacher performance variations. Implication, strengthening instructional leadership and a system of increasing work motivation needs to be a priority for elementary school policies. It is recommended that school principals improve academic supervision, coaching, and professional support, while teachers develop pedagogic competencies and classroom management through continuous development programs. Follow-up research is recommended to include other factors outside the model, such as school culture, parental support, and learning facilities, to explain the remaining variation in performance and enrich the development of teacher performance management models at the primary education level.

Academic Supervision Management by School Principals in Enhancing Teachers' Social Competence

2025-12-10T19:34:28+07:00

Principal academic supervision is an important means of improving teachers' social competence to support effective communication, cooperation, and professional classroom management. This study was motivated by the importance of the principal's role in providing continuous guidance, direction, and evaluation. The purpose of this study is to describe the planning, implementation, evaluation, follow-up, obstacles, and solutions of academic supervision by the principal in improving teachers' social competence at SDN Sintok and SDN Margasari. The method used is descriptive qualitative with data collection techniques through interviews, observation, and documentation, then analyzed thematically. The results showed that supervision at SDN Sintok emphasized personal assistance, while at SDN Margasari it was carried out in a structured manner with an annual work program. Supervision was proven to improve teachers' communication skills, cooperation, self-confidence, and reflective attitudes. In conclusion, academic supervision plays a strategic role in improving teachers' social competence through planned, flexible, and solution-oriented guidance.

Cooperative Script Management in Improving Students' Intensive Reading Skills

2025-12-10T19:35:12+07:00

Indonesian elementary students' reading literacy remains critically low, with 2018 PISA results ranking Indonesia 74th among 79 countries. This study examines Cooperative Script management in improving fourth-grade students' intensive reading skills, addressing the knowledge gap regarding how planning, organizing, implementing, and evaluating cooperative learning are managed across diverse resource contexts. A qualitative multiple case study was conducted at SDN Bungasari and SDN Wanasari, Cianjur Regency, over six months. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with principals, teachers, and students; systematic classroom observations; and document analysis. Analysis employed Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña's interactive model using Terry's POAC framework. Findings reveal that systematic Cooperative Script management significantly improved students' intensive reading skills, including main idea identification, text summarization, and critical thinking, while enhancing confidence, motivation, and communication abilities. Both schools achieved substantial gains despite contrasting teacher resource availability through adaptive planning, strategic heterogeneous pairing, and context-appropriate implementation strategies. Time constraints and supervision challenges were successfully mitigated through structured scheduling, peer tutoring, and scaffolding worksheets. Results align with constructivist learning theories and demonstrate that management quality mediates instructional effectiveness. The study extends Cooperative Script literature by establishing educational management as a critical variable determining implementation success, offering evidence-based guidance for teachers, administrators, and policymakers in resource-constrained contexts.

The Role and Strategy of Spiritual Leadership of School Principals in Fostering the Character of Environmental Care for Elementary School Students

2025-12-10T18:47:37+07:00

This research aims to analyze the role and spiritual leadership strategy of school principals in fostering the character of caring for the environment of elementary school students. Based on the theory of Spiritual Leadership Fry (vision, hope/faith, altruistic love), this study uses a qualitative approach with a case study method at SDN Ekologi Kahuripan Padjajaran, Purwakarta. Data was collected through in-depth interviews with principals, teachers, and supervisors; participatory observation of learning activities and environmental programs; as well as documentation studies on school policies, programs, and archives. Data analysis is carried out through reduction, presentation, and conclusion drawn, with triangulation of sources, methods, and time to ensure validity. The results of the study show that the spiritual leadership of school principals plays a central role through three main functions: as a role model that displays examples of ecological behavior; as a decision maker who formulates ecological vision, waste sorting policies, cleanliness pickets, and the integration of environmental themes in the curriculum; as well as as a facilitator who provides environmentally friendly facilities such as waste banks, classroom gardens, compost areas, and recycling corners. The strategies used include the integration of environmental education in intracurricular, strengthening extracurricular and co-curricular activities based on experience, and developing a green school culture based on spiritual values. The findings show an improvement in students' ecological behaviors, including the habits of maintaining cleanliness, caring for plants, saving energy, and actively participating in environmental programs. This research confirms that spiritual leadership is an effective transformative approach to integrating spiritual values and environmental education in a sustainable manner in primary schools.

Teacher Strategies in Civic Education for Internalizing Tolerance Values as Social Conflict Prevention in Multicultural Schools

2026-01-09T18:40:47+07:00

This study examines strategies employed by Civic Education (PPKn) teachers in internalizing tolerance values as conflict prevention efforts at SMA Negeri 1 Medang Deras, a multicultural secondary school in North Sumatra, Indonesia. Grounded in Berger and Luckmann's social construction theory, the research addresses the knowledge gap regarding how PPKn teachers operationalize tolerance education in heterogeneous school environments. A descriptive qualitative design was employed, collecting data through classroom observations, semi-structured interviews with teachers and students, and document analysis during April-July 2025. Purposive sampling identified PPKn teachers as key informants, eleventh-grade students as primary informants, and school administrators as supporting informants. Data analysis followed Miles et al.'s interactive model, employing triangulation to ensure trustworthiness. Findings reveal five synergistic strategies: value-based learning integrating tolerance into curriculum content, problem-based learning addressing real social issues, teacher role modeling demonstrating respectful behavior, contextual teaching linking theoretical concepts to students' lived experiences, and reflective practices encouraging critical self-examination. These strategies successfully transformed abstract tolerance concepts into concrete behavioral dispositions, evidenced by students' spontaneous promotion of tolerance beyond instructional contexts and increased comfort among minority students. The study validates social construction theory in educational settings, demonstrating how tolerance values undergo externalization through teacher modeling, objectification within classroom culture, and internalization through student meaning-making. Results offer evidence-based guidance for educators implementing tolerance education in multicultural contexts while identifying the necessity of multi-strategy approaches for effective values internalization.

Development and Validation of Smart Apps: A Culturally Responsive Digital Learning Media Integrating Local Wisdom for Elementary Education

2025-11-21T05:28:01+07:00

Education in the twenty-first century increasingly requires innovation that integrates technology with cultural values to create meaningful learning experiences. This study aimed to develop and evaluate Smart Apps, an interactive digital learning media integrating IPAS content with Central Sulawesi's local wisdom, specifically the traditional Lalove musical instrument, for fifth-grade students. Employing Research and Development (R&D) design guided by the ADDIE model, the study involved 28 fifth-grade students at SDN Inpres 1 Lolu, one classroom teacher, and two expert validators. Data were collected through validation sheets, practicality questionnaires, observations, and interviews, analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. The developed media achieved exceptional validity, with material quality rated at 93.33% and media quality at 90.00%, both categorized as "very valid." Practicality assessments revealed strong endorsement from teachers (86.67%) and students (92.90%), confirming the media's user-friendliness and pedagogical effectiveness. The Lalove integration enhanced student engagement and cultural appreciation. An unexpected finding revealed gender-differentiated participation patterns in collaborative technology use, warranting future investigation. The findings validate that culturally responsive digital media can simultaneously achieve pedagogical rigor and learner appeal. This study contributes the TPACK+C framework, extending traditional TPACK to incorporate cultural knowledge as an essential dimension for technology integration in culturally diverse contexts, providing a replicable model for developing culturally grounded educational technology.

Classroom Quality Management in Improving the Learning Motivation of Fifth Grade Students in Elementary School

2025-12-10T19:35:56+07:00

This study investigates how systematic classroom quality management enhances fifth-grade student learning motivation in Indonesian elementary schools. Despite established policy frameworks emphasizing quality management standards, significant gaps persist between policy intentions and classroom realities, particularly regarding the integration of industrial quality management principles into educational practice. Employing a qualitative case study approach, this research examined classroom quality management processes at SDN Kertaraharja and SDN Ciadeg in Cianjur Regency. Data were collected through classroom observations, semi-structured interviews with principals (n=2), teachers (n=6), and students (n=12), and document analysis. Findings reveal that systematic implementation of Deming's PDCA cycle—encompassing strategic planning with student voice integration, responsive implementation utilizing varied interactive methods, continuous evaluation tracking both academic and motivational outcomes, and adaptive follow-up—significantly enhances student learning motivation. Student participation increased from 62% to 87% during interactive activities, with unexpected emergence of spontaneous peer teaching behaviors indicating heightened intrinsic motivation. Key obstacles included limited facilities, insufficient teacher training, and resource constraints, overcome through creative solutions and collaborative approaches. This research contributes theoretically by validating industrial quality management frameworks in educational contexts and practically by providing replicable models for resource-constrained schools. The study demonstrates that educational quality enhancement is achievable through systematic, collaborative approaches recognizing student motivation as both a process indicator and valued outcome.

Implementing School Violence Prevention Policy in Indonesian Elementary Schools

2025-11-21T05:27:54+07:00

Violence in elementary schools has emerged as a critical national concern requiring systematic policy responses. Indonesia's Ministerial Regulation No. 46 of 2023 established School Violence Prevention and Handling Teams (TPPK) to create safe learning environments, yet implementation challenges persist across educational settings. This study analyzed TPPK policy implementation in Indonesian elementary schools using Edwards III's four-dimensional framework (communication, resources, disposition, bureaucratic structure) and examined local wisdom integration as a complementary violence prevention strategy. A systematic reflective literature review was conducted, synthesizing peer-reviewed journals, government regulations, and policy reports published primarily within 2019-2025. Content analysis employed Edwards III's theoretical dimensions to identify implementation patterns, challenges, and the role of cultural values. Findings revealed persistent implementation gaps attributable to inconsistent communication failing to build shared understanding, insufficient resource allocation constraining implementer capacity, dispositional orientations prioritizing compliance over commitment, and predominantly administrative bureaucratic structures. However, integration of Indonesian cultural values—gotong royong (mutual cooperation), tepa selira (empathetic respect), and musyawarah (deliberation)—demonstrated significant potential to strengthen implementer disposition and enhance policy effectiveness by fostering empathy and moral commitment. Effective TPPK implementation requires alignment across Edwards III's four dimensions, strengthened through cultural integration that transforms formal policies into contextually meaningful practices. Local wisdom functions as a mediating dimension permeating structural variables, suggesting that universal implementation theories require cultural adaptation across diverse sociocultural contexts to create safe, inclusive elementary school environments.

How Principals Cultivate Teacher Personal Competencies: Insights from Study Group Implementation in Elementary Schools

2025-12-10T19:48:38+07:00

Teacher personal competencies, encompassing integrity, emotional stability, and professional ethics, are fundamental to quality elementary education, yet their systematic development remains underexamined. This study analyzes how principal management through the POAC framework enhances teacher personal competencies via study groups. A qualitative case study design was employed at SDN Ciseureuh and SDN Karya Bhakti in Cianjur Regency, Indonesia. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and document analysis from principals, teachers, and stakeholders selected through purposive and snowball sampling. Data analysis followed Miles et al.'s (2014) three-stage inductive process, with trustworthiness established through triangulation, member checking, and audit trails. Findings reveal that systematic principal management—encompassing evidence-based planning, strategic resource organization, motivational leadership, and continuous evaluation—effectively strengthens teacher integrity, responsibility, discipline, and professionalism through study groups. Study groups structured around collaborative inquiry and reflective practice created authentic learning environments. However, time constraints, motivational variation, and infrastructure limitations emerged as implementation challenges, while principal commitment, competent facilitation, and collegial culture served as facilitating factors. An unexpected finding showed differential impact across career stages, with early-career teachers experiencing more transformative changes than veterans. The integration of POAC management theory with professional learning community research demonstrates that teacher personal competencies are developable through intentional, well-managed collegial learning. This culturally contextualized approach offers practical guidance for principals and contributes theoretically by synthesizing management, professional development, and character education literature.

Enhancing the Science Literacy of Elementary School Students by a STEAM Approach

2025-12-08T04:55:34+07:00

Science literacy remains a critical challenge in elementary education, with many students struggling to connect scientific concepts to real-world contexts. This study investigated the effectiveness of implementing a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) approach to enhance science literacy among third-grade students in integrated IPAS learning within the Indonesian Merdeka Curriculum. A classroom action research design employing Kemmis and McTaggart's cyclical model was conducted over two cycles at SDN Cempaka Putih Barat 01, Central Jakarta, involving 32 third-grade students. Data were collected through performance-based assessments, systematic classroom observations, and documentation, with analysis following Miles and Huberman's interactive model. The intervention achieved substantial improvements in science literacy outcomes. Student pass rates increased dramatically from 43.75% at baseline to 71.87% after Cycle 1 and 90.63% after Cycle 2, while mean achievement scores rose from 66.47 to 74.71 and ultimately to 83.24. Observational data documented progressive improvements in both teacher pedagogical practices (2.58 to 2.87) and student engagement levels (1.96 to 2.23). The findings provide empirical evidence that STEAM-based instruction effectively enhances science literacy by promoting interdisciplinary integration, constructivist learning, and student-centered pedagogy. The results extend existing literature by demonstrating STEAM's effectiveness within the Indonesian educational context and offering detailed implementation insights for practitioners seeking evidence-based strategies to improve elementary science education.

Enhancing Academic Competitiveness Through Strategic Curriculum Development Management

2025-12-10T19:49:13+07:00

Gaining entry into state universities through competitive selection mechanisms requires systematic academic preparation beyond individual aptitude, necessitating effective curriculum development management. However, misalignment between competency-based curriculum implementation and examination-focused selection requirements poses significant challenges for secondary schools. This qualitative case study examined curriculum development management at SMAN 1 Singaparna and SMAN 2 Singaparna using semi-structured interviews, systematic observations, and document analysis. Data were analyzed through Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña's interactive model involving data condensation, display, and conclusion drawing. Both institutions implemented systematic curriculum management through collaborative planning involving multiple stakeholders, coordinated organizational structures with clear role distribution, adaptive implementation integrating HOTS-based instruction with examination preparation, and multidimensional evaluation frameworks. Strategic responses to challenges included developing internal resource banks, establishing partnerships with online learning platforms, implementing alumni mentoring programs, and scheduling intensive preparation during post-examination periods. Despite infrastructure limitations, uneven teacher capacity, temporal constraints, and policy instability, both schools demonstrated organizational innovation and teacher agency in balancing comprehensive education with competitive examination preparation. Findings demonstrate that curriculum-assessment misalignment can be addressed through strategic integration at planning and implementation stages, extending curriculum management theory to competitive contexts and providing actionable insights for educational administrators navigating similar challenges while maintaining educational integrity.

Trends and Effectiveness of Augmented Reality in Elementary Mathematics Education

2025-11-21T05:28:06+07:00

This study analyzes the trends and effectiveness of Augmented Reality (AR) in elementary mathematics education from 2019 to 2025. A Systematic Literature Review (SLR) was conducted on 30 indexed articles selected using the PRISMA 2020 protocol. The findings reveal that 55% of the studies were conducted in Indonesia, indicating a strong geographical concentration. Quantitatively, the reviewed studies reported significant learning improvements, as evidenced by p-values below 0.05, effectiveness rates of up to 91%, user satisfaction reaching 95.6%, media feasibility scores ranging from 81% to 99%, and one study reporting a high N-Gain value of 0.90. In addition, AR was found to enhance conceptual understanding, geometric ability, spatial reasoning, and learning motivation, while also reducing students’ cognitive load. Despite its positive impact, several challenges remain, including variations in teacher readiness, infrastructure limitations, and the lack of long-term evaluation studies. Overall, AR functions not only as a visualization tool but also as a catalyst for more interactive, immersive, and student-centered mathematics learning. Future research is recommended to employ longitudinal designs, broaden participant contexts, and develop more adaptive AR-based learning models to strengthen empirical evidence in primary mathematics education.

Systematic Management of Morality Development in Strengthening Elementary School Character Education

2025-12-10T19:50:47+07:00

Character education constitutes a fundamental mandate in contemporary education systems, yet systematic management approaches remain insufficiently examined. This study investigates morality development management in strengthening character education at elementary schools facing resource constraints. Employing qualitative case study design, this research examined SDN Tegalmerak and SDN Pagermaneuh in Tanggeung District through interviews with principals, teachers, students, and parents (n=52), participatory observations, and documentation analysis. Data were analyzed using Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña's interactive model, applying George R. Terry's management framework. Findings reveal systematic implementation across four management functions: (1) collaborative planning integrating character values into curriculum and activities; (2) clear organizational structures with specialized coordination teams; (3) diverse implementation strategies including religious habituation, teacher role modeling, and extracurricular engagement; and (4) multi-layered monitoring through classroom observations and stakeholder feedback. Measurable improvements included increased attendance (87% to 94%), reduced disciplinary incidents (43% decrease), and spontaneous moral behavior demonstration by 78% of students. However, students with strong parental involvement showed 67% greater behavioral improvements, underscoring ecological factors' critical role. Results validate classical management theory's applicability to character education while revealing that effectiveness depends substantially on home-school value consistency rather than school efforts alone. Findings suggest character education requires coordinated multi-stakeholder approaches addressing resource constraints through adaptive strategies.

Investigating the Impact of Problem-Based Learning on Students’ Critical Thinking and Learning Autonomy in the Context of Primary Education

2025-11-21T05:28:19+07:00

This study investigates the impact of the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) model on students’ critical thinking skills and learning autonomy in primary education, addressing the limited empirical evidence examining the simultaneous development of these competencies at the elementary school level in Indonesia. The research was conducted in a public elementary school in Bram Itam District involving two sixth-grade classes, Class VI A and Class VI B, each comprising 21 students. A quasi-experimental design with a pretest–posttest control group was employed, using a critical thinking test and a learning autonomy questionnaire as data collection instruments. The results indicated a substantial improvement in the experimental group compared to the control group, with mean critical thinking scores increasing from 68.10 to 84.29 and learning autonomy from 70.43 to 86.05. Independent samples t-test analysis revealed significant differences between groups for both critical thinking (t = 3.42, p < 0.05) and learning autonomy (t = 3.76, p < 0.05). These findings demonstrate that PBL effectively enhances analytical reasoning and self-regulated learning among elementary students. The study supports the integration of PBL as a strategic instructional model to promote higher-order thinking and independent learning in alignment with 21st-century educational demands and the Kurikulum Merdeka reform.

Quality Management of Principal Academic Supervision for Enhancing Teacher Pedagogical Competence

2025-12-10T19:51:33+07:00

Teacher pedagogical competence remains critical for educational quality, yet many teachers struggle with planning, implementing, and evaluating instruction effectively. Academic supervision represents a vital quality management mechanism, though limited research examines how principals systematically integrate quality management principles into supervision practices. This study investigated quality management approaches to principal academic supervision in enhancing teacher pedagogical competence through comparative analysis of two elementary schools. A qualitative multiple case study design was employed at SDN 164 Karangpawulang and SDN 033 Asmi Bandung. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 12 participants (principals, vice principals, teachers), classroom observations, and document analysis. Thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke's framework was conducted to identify patterns across planning, implementation, evaluation, and follow-up stages. Both schools successfully implemented systematic supervision cycles aligned with quality management principles, though employing distinct approaches. SDN 164 emphasized standardized instruments from the Merdeka Mengajar Platform and Employee Performance Target integration, while SDN 033 excelled in collaborative supervision incorporating lesson study principles and reflective practices. Teachers demonstrated significant improvements in pedagogical competencies, translating into enhanced student engagement and learning outcomes. Effective supervision quality management requires balancing standardization with contextualization, evaluation with professional growth. The study advances theoretical integration of instructional leadership, quality management, and collaborative learning frameworks while offering actionable strategies for practitioners.

Deep Learning Policy Implementation for Character Development

2025-11-18T19:45:32+07:00

Deep Learning policy implementation in Indonesia aims to transform pedagogical practices through mindful, meaningful, and joyful learning principles to develop holistic character aligned with Pancasila Student Profile dimensions. However, systematic analysis of implementation dynamics using comprehensive theoretical frameworks remains limited, particularly in elementary school contexts. This qualitative instrumental case study employed the Edwards III model to analyze Deep Learning policy implementation at SD Negeri 2 Kesamben involving 15 participants. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, 18 classroom observations, and document analysis, then analyzed using thematic analysis with NVivo 14 software. Findings revealed communication distortion from leadership (95% comprehension) to technical implementation (55%), resource disparities between trained (4.2) and untrained teachers (3.3), implementor disposition variations (75% positive, 25% neutral/resistant), and bureaucratic structure challenges in coordination. Deep Learning principles achieved 66.7%-100% implementation rates, yielding significant character development across eight dimensions, particularly collaboration (4.5), creativity (4.3), and communication (4.2). School culture emerged as a moderating factor facilitating implementation effectiveness. Results validate the Edwards III model's applicability in developing country contexts while identifying factor interactions and cultural dimensions as critical implementation determinants. Successful implementation requires simultaneous attention to communication clarity, capacity building, positive dispositions, and enabling bureaucratic structures within supportive organizational cultures. Findings provide practical guidance for schools implementing transformative pedagogical policies within Indonesia's Merdeka Curriculum framework.

Principal Management in Improving Teacher Performance for School Program Success

2025-12-10T19:52:04+07:00

Principal management plays a critical role in improving teacher performance and ensuring school program success, yet understanding of how management practices function across varied elementary school contexts remains limited. This study examined principal management in improving teacher performance through the PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) framework at two elementary schools in Cianjur Regency, West Java, Indonesia. A qualitative descriptive case study design was employed, with data collected through semi-structured interviews, passive participant observation, and documentary analysis. Research participants comprised school principals and teachers from SD Negeri Nusa Indah Cipanas and SD Negeri Gadog Pacet. Data were analyzed using Miles et al.'s (2014) interactive model, with credibility ensured through triangulation, member checking, and peer debriefing. Findings revealed distinct yet effective management approaches: SDN Nusa Indah demonstrated systematic, participatory leadership emphasizing structured planning, formal supervision, and evidence-based evaluation, while SDN Gadog exhibited transformational leadership prioritizing relational engagement, personalized guidance, and adaptive implementation. Both approaches successfully improved teacher performance through continuous improvement orientations adapted to institutional contexts. Management effectiveness emerges from contextual alignment between leadership practices and institutional realities rather than adherence to singular optimal models, suggesting that both systematic and flexible approaches can generate meaningful teacher development when authentically implemented with continuous improvement orientations.

Collaborative Leadership Practices and Their Impact on Educational Quality Management

2026-01-18T15:09:20+07:00

Collaborative leadership has emerged as a critical approach for enhancing educational quality management, yet its implementation in resource-constrained rural schools remains underexplored. This qualitative descriptive study examined collaborative principal leadership and its role in implementing educational quality management at SD Inpres 3 Tolai, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with the principal and nine teachers, document analysis, and structured questionnaires, then analyzed using thematic analysis and descriptive statistics. Findings revealed that collaborative leadership achieved 90.2% effectiveness, characterized by participatory decision-making, professional empowerment, trust-building, and institutionalization of Professional Learning Communities. Six major themes emerged: participatory decision-making, empowerment and professional development, trust-building and democratic climate, Professional Learning Communities, adaptive leadership in the digital era, and implementation challenges including time constraints and resource limitations. Teachers unanimously perceived the principal's leadership as highly collaborative, with 59.4% strongly agreeing and 40.6% agreeing across all measured dimensions. The study demonstrates that collaborative leadership can function effectively in resource-constrained contexts by leveraging relational capital—trust, communication, and shared commitment—to compensate for material limitations. Findings support Collaborative Leadership Theory and Total Quality Management principles, illustrating how distributed decision-making fosters continuous improvement and democratic organizational culture. The research contributes evidence-based insights for strengthening educational leadership capacity in rural Indonesian elementary schools.

Professional Competency Management of Teachers in Improving the Quality of Meaningful Learning in Elementary Schools

2025-12-10T19:52:44+07:00

Improving meaningful learning quality in elementary schools requires systematic management of teacher professional competencies. This study examines how professional competency management contributes to meaningful learning implementation through Deming's Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle framework. A qualitative multiple case study was conducted at SDN Loji (Bandung Regency) and SDN Cikandang (Sumedang Regency), West Java, Indonesia. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with principals and teachers, participatory observations, and document analysis. Data validity was established through triangulation, member checking, and peer debriefing. Analysis employed Miles and Huberman's interactive model. Both schools implemented all PDCA stages with varying sophistication levels. SDN Loji demonstrated structured approaches with comprehensive needs assessment, diverse training programs, systematic evaluation using multiple indicators, and responsive follow-up actions. SDN Cikandang, despite resource constraints, achieved meaningful development through collaborative peer learning, reflective practices, and adaptive strategies. Unexpected findings revealed that resource limitations fostered higher teacher agency and that informal learning networks generated stronger peer accountability than formal structures. The PDCA cycle effectively guides teacher competency management when adapted to institutional contexts. Success requires balancing systematic structures with professional autonomy, formal programs with informal collaboration, and organizational direction with teacher ownership. The study advances understanding of continuous improvement cycles in education and provides practical guidance for school leaders and policymakers.

Principal Leadership and Educational Quality Management

2025-11-23T06:03:19+07:00

Effective principal leadership is crucial for implementing educational quality management in elementary schools, yet empirical evidence from Indonesian contexts remains limited. This study examined how principal leadership practices contribute to successful quality management implementation at SDN 5 Tolai, Central Sulawesi. A qualitative descriptive case study was employed, involving nine participants comprising one principal and eight teachers. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, document analysis, and structured questionnaires using a five-point Likert scale. Qualitative data were analyzed using Miles et al.'s interactive model, while quantitative data employed percentage descriptive analysis. The principal demonstrated highly effective leadership with 97.5% overall effectiveness rating across transformational influence, participatory decision-making, strategic teacher empowerment, quality culture development, and continuous improvement mechanisms. Five interconnected themes emerged: transformational and inspirational motivation through personal example, participatory governance balancing consultation with administrative efficiency, competency-based delegation enhancing teacher confidence, institutionalized integrity values fostering transparency, and monthly reflection sessions supporting systematic evaluation. Observation confirmed 93.75% quality management implementation, though facility optimization gaps revealed resource constraints beyond leadership control. Effective principal leadership significantly contributes to sustainable educational quality management through synergistic integration of transformational leadership behaviors and Total Quality Management principles, demonstrating that relational trust and systematic processes outweigh material resources in driving quality improvement.

Implementation of Centralized School Management in Improving Graduate Quality

2025-12-10T19:53:37+07:00

Vocational education quality depends critically on effective management systems aligning educational outputs with industry demands. This study examines Center of Excellence (PK) management implementation in private vocational schools and its impact on graduate quality. A qualitative case study design was employed at SMKS PGRI 35 Jakarta and SMKS Islam Bahagia Jakarta, the only private vocational schools implementing PK programs in West Jakarta 1. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 12 key informants, participant observations, and document analysis over four months. Analysis followed systematic qualitative procedures incorporating triangulation to enhance credibility. Findings revealed that systematic PK management through Planning, Organizing, Actuating, and Controlling (POAC) framework significantly enhanced graduate quality. Both schools achieved employment rates of 83% and 79% within three months post-graduation, exceeding the 80% target. Implementation success involved formalized industry partnerships (MoUs with PT Midi Utama Indonesia Tbk and PT Indo Marco Prismata Tbk), curriculum integration with competency certifications (94% and 91% achievement rates), and multilayered supervision systems. Unexpected findings included spontaneous inter-institutional collaboration and student-led peer monitoring mechanisms. Results support POAC theory's applicability to contemporary vocational contexts while extending understanding of culturally responsive implementation strategies, particularly Islamic values integration. The study demonstrates that resource-constrained private institutions can effectively adapt centralized policies through strategic curriculum design, transparent supervision, and sustained industry engagement to produce competitive graduates.

Innovative Leadership and Educational Quality Management

2025-11-23T06:03:27+07:00

Educational quality management in primary schools requires innovative leadership capable of navigating resource constraints while fostering continuous improvement. However, limited empirical evidence exists on how innovative leadership operationalizes quality management in rural Indonesian contexts. This study examined the innovative leadership strategies of the school principal in implementing educational quality management at SD Inpres Makapa A, Banggai Regency, Central Sulawesi. A qualitative descriptive design was employed, involving the principal and nine teachers as participants. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, document analysis, and Likert-scale questionnaires, then analyzed using an interactive model comprising data reduction, display, and conclusion drawing with triangulation to ensure trustworthiness. Findings revealed exceptionally high perception scores (95.6%) for innovative leadership across all indicators. The principal demonstrated transformational-innovative leadership through participatory decision-making, transparent communication, continuous professional development, technology integration, and moral-ethical guidance. Three interconnected mechanisms emerged: collaborative culture-building, adaptive practices, and psychological empowerment. Documentary evidence confirmed institutionalized quality management practices, though resource constraints moderated sustainability. Innovative leadership significantly enhances educational quality management effectiveness by leveraging social capital and intrinsic motivation rather than material resources alone. The study provides a replicable model for rural primary schools and emphasizes prioritizing leadership capacity-building alongside infrastructural investments for sustainable quality improvement.

Management of Karate Extracurricular Programs in Developing Students' Non-Academic Achievements

2025-12-10T19:54:22+07:00

Extracurricular activities play a crucial role in developing students' non-academic achievements, yet their management often remains suboptimal due to resource constraints and inadequate systematic approaches. This study examined how karate extracurricular programs are managed to support non-academic achievement development at two elementary schools in Jakarta, Indonesia. A qualitative case study design was employed at SDN Jembatan Besi 01 Pagi and SDN Kapuk 13 Petang from June to September 2025. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with principals, teachers, coaches, and students, participatory observations of training sessions, and document analysis. Miles and Huberman's interactive analysis model guided data analysis, while triangulation strategies ensured trustworthiness. Both schools implemented five management functions—planning, organizing, actuating, controlling, and follow-up—though with varying effectiveness. SDN Jembatan Besi 01 Pagi demonstrated more systematic planning documentation, balanced evaluation incorporating character development indicators, and proactive external partnerships. SDN Kapuk 13 Petang faced coach shortages and emphasized competition-focused evaluation. Both programs contributed to students' discipline, self-confidence, cooperation skills, and competitive achievements. Effective karate program management requires systematic application of management functions with contextual adaptation, balanced evaluation approaches, and stakeholder collaboration. Findings provide actionable guidance for enhancing extracurricular program quality in resource-constrained settings.

The Effectiveness of the Word Square Learning Model on Reading Ability

2025-11-23T06:03:33+07:00

Reading ability constitutes a fundamental skill essential for academic success, yet many elementary students experience persistent difficulties in developing adequate reading competencies. The Word Square model, a game-based puzzle intervention, offers a promising approach to enhance reading instruction through active word recognition and contextual learning. This study investigated the effectiveness of the Word Square learning model on reading ability among fourth-grade elementary students in Indonesian language instruction. A quasi-experimental design with nonequivalent control groups was employed, involving 44 students divided into experimental (n=22) and control (n=22) groups. The experimental group received Word Square instruction while the control group participated in conventional teaching. Reading ability was assessed through pretest and posttest measurements. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Shapiro-Wilk normality test, Levene's homogeneity test, independent samples t-test, and normalized gain (N-gain) analysis. The experimental group achieved significantly higher posttest scores (M=89.64) compared to the control group (M=70.86), with t=13.636, p<0.001. The N-gain coefficient of 0.7325 indicated high effectiveness, demonstrating substantial improvement relative to students' growth potential. The Word Square learning model significantly enhances reading ability among fourth-grade students, providing robust empirical support for game-based, student-centered pedagogical approaches in elementary literacy instruction. These findings offer practical implications for educators seeking evidence-based strategies to improve reading outcomes.

Implementing Link and Match in Practice: A Comparative Study of Management Processes and Graduate Employability Outcomes

2025-12-10T19:54:56+07:00

Persistent mismatches between vocational graduate competencies and industry requirements have resulted in suboptimal employment absorption rates in Indonesia, particularly amid Fourth Industrial Revolution demands. This study examines link and match management between vocational schools and the business-industrial world (DUDI) to enhance graduate employability. A qualitative comparative case study was conducted at SMK Negeri 2 Cilaku and SMK Negeri 1 Cikalongkulon in Cianjur Regency. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, participatory observations, and documentation analysis with purposively selected participants including principals, teachers, DUDI representatives, students, and alumni. Analysis employed Miles et al.'s (2014) interactive model based on Robbins and Coulter's (2009) management functions framework. Both schools systematically implemented link and match through comprehensive planning involving early industry participation, integrated organizational structures with frequent communication mechanisms, holistic implementation of eight program pillars including curriculum synchronization and teaching factories, and participatory evaluation processes. Graduate employment absorption reached 68-74% within six months, exceeding national averages. BNSP-certified competency verification significantly accelerated employment timelines. Findings demonstrate that partnership quality—characterized by structural integration, communication intensity, and nationally recognized certification—surpasses partnership quantity in determining employability outcomes. Despite structural constraints including limited regional industry diversity and competency gaps, adaptive institutional responses facilitated program effectiveness, contributing empirical evidence for systematic school-industry collaboration strategies.

Ngindung ka Waktu, Mibapa ka Jaman: Educational Values in Sundanese Proverbs and Their Implications for Elementary Character Education

2025-12-15T19:59:17+07:00

The Sundanese proverb "Ngindung ka waktu, mibapa ka jaman" embodies educational values balancing tradition preservation with contemporary adaptation, yet remains underexplored as a pedagogical framework for nationalism-based character education in elementary schools. This study examined how educational values embedded in this proverb manifest in Kampung Adat Cireundeu community practices and their implications for elementary education. Employing ethnographic case study design, data were collected through participant observation, semi-structured interviews with traditional leaders (n=2), elementary teachers (n=3), and community members (n=5), and document analysis. Data were analyzed using Miles et al.'s (2014) descriptive analysis framework with methodological triangulation ensuring validity. Five core educational values emerged: love for cultural heritage, social responsibility, unity, adaptive capacity, and independence. These values manifested through concrete practices including cassava-based food self-sufficiency, mutual cooperation (gotong royong), selective technology adoption, and intergenerational knowledge transmission. Comparative analysis revealed philosophical consistency across Indonesian ethnic proverbs. Successful curriculum integration required teacher ethnopedagogical training, curriculum flexibility, and community-school partnerships. The proverb functions as a living pedagogical framework demonstrating that indigenous communities can simultaneously preserve cultural identity while engaging modernity. Findings provide evidence-based guidance for integrating local wisdom into character education curricula, positioning traditional knowledge systems as vital resources for developing culturally grounded, nationally coherent educational frameworks applicable beyond Indonesian contexts.

Differentiated Learning Strategies in Indonesian Language Subjects for Grade IV

2025-12-10T19:55:26+07:00

Differentiated inquiry-based learning represents a promising approach for addressing diverse student needs in elementary literacy instruction, yet empirical evidence regarding its implementation in Indonesian language contexts remains limited. This qualitative case study examined differentiated learning strategies in fourth-grade Indonesian language instruction at two elementary schools in West Jakarta. Data were collected through classroom observations, semi-structured interviews with principals, teachers, and students, and document analysis of teaching modules and assessments. Analysis followed Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña's framework, with triangulation ensuring trustworthiness. Pretest-posttest comparisons revealed substantial literacy gains, with reading scores improving 17.4 points and writing scores 17.6-20.7 points across schools. Student surveys indicated significant increases in motivation (68%), self-confidence (75%), and engagement (80%). Teachers successfully implemented content, process, and product differentiation while integrating inquiry-based activities. However, implementation faced challenges including time constraints (100% of teachers), resource limitations (88%), and pedagogical complexity (75%). Unexpectedly, peer learning dynamics emerged organically, with students spontaneously adopting teaching roles. Findings support Tomlinson's differentiation framework and Vygotsky's constructivism, demonstrating that inquiry-based differentiation enhances both cognitive and affective outcomes. However, successful implementation requires systemic support including dedicated planning time, graded resources, and sustained professional development. This study contributes theoretical understanding of integrating differentiation with inquiry using systematic planning models while offering practical implications for Merdeka Curriculum implementation.

Deep Learning-Based English Language Learning Management

2025-12-10T19:55:52+07:00

Elementary students' listening skills remain inadequate despite the critical role of listening comprehension in English language acquisition. Traditional teacher-centered approaches fail to engage students meaningfully, creating a gap between curriculum demands and classroom practices. This study examined the implementation of Deep Learning-based English language learning management in improving elementary students' listening skills.

A qualitative case study design was employed at two elementary schools in West Java, Indonesia. Data were collected through interviews with teachers and principals, classroom observations, and document analysis, then analyzed using the Miles and Huberman interactive model. Deep Learning implementation through systematic planning, interactive instruction, and authentic assessment significantly improved students' listening comprehension. At SDN 214 Perumnas Cijerah, main idea identification increased from 45% to 78%, while at SDN Rancanileum improvements rose from 42% to 64%. Students demonstrated enhanced abilities in identifying main ideas, comprehending details, and interpreting contextual meaning. Unexpectedly, students developed metalinguistic awareness, spontaneously comparing English and Indonesian language structures. Supporting factors included teacher readiness and technological infrastructure, while obstacles involved resource limitations and variations in teacher competence. Deep Learning-based learning management effectively enhances elementary students' listening skills across diverse contexts. The study demonstrates that constructivist pedagogical approaches, when systematically implemented, foster active knowledge construction and holistic language development beyond intended instructional objectives.

Bridging the Digital Divide in Elementary Science Education

2025-12-07T20:55:39+07:00

The integration of technology-enhanced learning in elementary education remains challenging due to limited developmentally appropriate digital media. This study examines stakeholder needs for GlideApps-based e-learning development in elementary IPAS education, specifically for the five senses topic. A convergent parallel mixed-methods design was employed, collecting data from 608 fifth-grade students and 32 teachers across 18 elementary schools in Jejawi District through validated questionnaires utilizing five-point Likert scales. Data were analyzed using descriptive percentages and thematic analysis across six dimensions: pedagogical, technical, cognitive, aesthetic, sociocultural, and evaluative. All stakeholder groups demonstrated high needs (79-91%), with evaluation aspects achieving the highest priority (91.10%), followed by cognitive support (87.20%) and aesthetic design (86.60%). Students exhibited holistic need patterns with minimal variance across dimensions (2.4 percentage points), while teachers prioritized cognitive aspects (85.38%). Sociocultural integration, though still needed (79.30%), ranked relatively lower across all groups. Findings reveal that elementary learners approach technology-mediated learning more holistically than older students, requiring balanced attention to evaluation systems, multimedia content, visual appeal, technical accessibility, pedagogical alignment, and cultural relevance. The study provides a replicable framework for needs analysis in elementary educational technology contexts and offers evidence-based priorities for developing interactive digital learning media that authentically serve elementary students' developmental characteristics while supporting Indonesian science education goals.

Digital Media-Based Mathematics Learning Strategies to Enhance Reading Interest Among Elementary School Students

2025-12-10T19:17:43+07:00

Elementary students' low reading interest significantly impairs their ability to comprehend mathematical word problems, particularly in rural schools with limited technological infrastructure. This study examined how digital media-based mathematics learning strategies enhance reading interest while strengthening numeracy competencies. A qualitative case study was conducted at two Indonesian elementary schools (SDN Puncak 1 and SDN Pasirkampung) using classroom observations, semi-structured interviews with teachers, principals, and students, and document analysis. Data were analyzed following Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña's framework, with triangulation ensuring validity. Systematic implementation incorporating educational videos, interactive e-modules, digital quizzes, and GeoGebra—supported by structured planning, resource organization, and continuous supervision—produced substantial improvements. Student questioning behavior increased 239%, mathematical word problem performance improved from 56.4% to 73.2% (Cohen's d=1.43), and mathematics anxiety decreased from 67% to 38%. Students demonstrated enhanced reading behaviors including spontaneous rereading, text-pointing while reading, and voluntary engagement with mathematical narratives. Digital media-based strategies effectively integrate literacy and numeracy development when supported by systematic management frameworks. Success depends on needs-based planning, teacher professional development emphasizing pedagogical-technological competencies, offline resource preparation mitigating connectivity limitations, and data-driven supervision enabling responsive refinement. Findings validate multimedia learning theory while revealing that resource constraints can generate productive collaborative structures, providing empirical foundations for inclusive digital mathematics education in technologically limited contexts.

Adaptive Leadership in Digital Transformation

2025-12-10T19:56:38+07:00

Digital transformation in education faces implementation challenges despite adequate technological infrastructure, with teachers experiencing difficulties in digital administrative tasks. This study examined how school principals enhance teachers' administrative effectiveness in the digital era through Planning, Organizing, Actuating, and Controlling (POAC) management framework across contrasting resource contexts. A comparative qualitative case study was conducted at SDN 1 Pasirwangi and SDN 1 Padaasih, Garut Regency, involving two principals, twelve teachers, and four administrative staff. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and document analysis from August to September 2025, analyzed using Miles and Huberman's interactive model with source and method triangulation. Both schools achieved substantial digital administrative effectiveness through contextually adapted POAC implementation. SDN 1 Pasirwangi employed structured systems with formal ICT teams and participatory planning, optimizing government-provided infrastructure. SDN 1 Padaasih compensated for limited resources through intensive principal engagement, informal peer networks, and creative adaptation strategies. Unexpectedly, teacher age showed no correlation with digital competence development. Adaptive leadership implementation of POAC principles constitutes the critical success factor, transcending infrastructure availability. Leadership quality, particularly in fostering teacher motivation and providing solution-oriented supervision, determines digital transformation outcomes more significantly than resource abundance, challenging infrastructure-centric assumptions in educational technology literature.

IT-Based Learning Management and Student Motivation in Resource-Constrained Elementary Schools

2025-12-10T19:57:15+07:00

The integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in elementary education represents a critical strategy for enhancing learning quality, yet implementation in resource-constrained contexts remains underexplored. This study examined IT-based learning management implementation and its relationship to student learning motivation in elementary schools with limited infrastructure. A qualitative multiple case study was conducted at two elementary schools in Campaka District, Cianjur Regency, Indonesia. Data were collected through participatory observations, semi-structured interviews with principals, teachers, and students, and documentary analysis. Data analysis employed Miles et al.'s (2014) framework incorporating data reduction, display, and conclusion drawing, with triangulation ensuring validity. Findings revealed that both schools enhanced student engagement and motivation through IT integration despite infrastructure disparities. SDN Margasari demonstrated systematic management across planning, organization, implementation, and evaluation functions, while SDN Hegarmanah exhibited emergent practices aligned with early adoption stages. Key obstacles included equipment limitations, internet connectivity issues, and variable teacher competencies. Adaptive solutions encompassed phased infrastructure development, targeted professional development, and pedagogical innovation. Results confirm that systematic IT-based learning management can effectively increase elementary students' learning motivation even within resource constraints when calibrated to institutional capacity. Findings extend Terry's management theory and motivational frameworks while illuminating developmental progressions in technology integration requiring differentiated support strategies for schools at varying implementation stages.

Teacher-Parent Collaboration in Developing Independence and Social-Emotional Competencies

2025-12-10T19:57:52+07:00

The development of independence and social-emotional competencies in elementary students requires systematic collaboration between teachers and parents, yet structured partnership models remain insufficiently explored in Indonesian educational contexts. This study examines teacher-parent collaboration in developing students' independence and social-emotional skills at SDN 011 Cibuntu, Bandung City, identifying critical components and implementation mechanisms. A qualitative case study design was employed, collecting data through in-depth interviews with five teachers, one school principal, and eight parents, supplemented by systematic observation and document analysis. Data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke's framework. Three essential collaboration dimensions emerged: joint planning incorporating bidirectional input, coordinated implementation through aligned home-school strategies and intensive communication (averaging 3.7 exchanges per parent monthly), and collaborative evaluation enabling dual-context monitoring. Active collaboration improved student independence indicators and social-emotional competencies, though implementation faced substantial barriers including documentation gaps, time constraints affecting economically disadvantaged families, and informal evaluation practices. Social-emotional development required more intensive collaboration than independence skills, revealing differential impacts across developmental domains. Systematic teacher-parent collaboration effectively supports student development when accompanied by structured protocols, professional development, flexible engagement options, and formal evaluation tools. Realizing collaboration potential demands systemic supports addressing capacity building at individual, institutional, and policy levels rather than relying on individual initiative alone.