Implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum and Its Challenges

Based on the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (Kemendikbudristek) Number 56 of 2022 concerning Guidelines for Curriculum Implementation in the context of Curriculum Learning Recovery During the Covid-19 Pandemic which requires schools to gradually use the Merdeka curriculum. The Merdeka Curriculum is a curriculum that provides flexibility to schools and teachers in exploring according to the needs of the school, especially the needs of students. This study aims to describe the implementation of the Merdeka curriculum and its challenges in SD Muhammadiyah Warungboto schools in Yogyakarta. This research uses a qualitative approach to the case study method. The subjects of this study were the principal, curriculum coordination team, teachers, students at SD Muhammadiyah Warungboto Yogyakarta city. Data collection techniques use interviews, and observation. The results of the study are as follows: (1) Application of the Independent Curriculum in the Changing Curriculum status. (2) The learning model used by teachers is still by lecturing and learning is not all student-centered. (2) There are still many teachers who are not ready regarding the implementation of the Merdeka curriculum. (3) Students based on interests and talents are still just following the choice of friends even because of pressure. (4) Lack of enthusiasm of teachers who are not ready for curriculum changes, especially changing learning tools. (5) Schools develop various strategies to be used regarding the implementation of the Independent Curriculum