Analysis of Constraints, Perceptions, and Determining Factors for Success in Implementing the Merdeka Belajar Curriculum in Indonesia

A Case Study at Muhammadiyah Kasihan Bantul Middle School, Special Region of Yogyakarta

https://doi.org/10.56741/IISTR.jpes.001170

Authors

Keywords:

Civic Education, Curriculum Implementation, Learning Constraints, Merdeka Belajar Curriculum, Muhammadiyah Schools, Teacher Perception

Abstract

This research aims to analyze the obstacles, perceptions, and success factors in implementing the Merdeka Belajar Curriculum at Muhammadiyah Kasihan Middle School. The method is a descriptive qualitative approach, utilizing in-depth interviews with Pancasila and Civic Education (Pendidikan Pancasial dan Kewarganegaraan or PPKn) teachers at various levels. The results showed that the main obstacles lie in understanding the new curriculum, limited references, and a lack of relevant training. Nevertheless, teachers' perceptions of curriculum change tend to be positive when supported by adequate training and sufficient resources. The implications of this study demonstrate the importance of strengthening teacher capacity as well as providing systematic support to make curriculum implementation work more effectively.

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Author Biographies

Trisna Sukmayadi, Universitas Ahmad Dahlan

is an academic and permanent lecturer dedicated to the Pancasila and Civic Education Study Program at the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Ahmad Dahlan, Indonesia. He is widely known for his expertise in the field of PPKn Learning Strategies, which is a major focus in his academic and research career. (email: trisnasukmayadi@ppkn.uad.ac.id).

Sumaryati, Universitas Ahmad Dahlan

has a master’s degree in philosophy and a PhD in philosophy from Universitas Gadjah Mada. She is currently working as a Professor in the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Ahmad Dahlan, Indonesia. She has expertise in philosophy of morals, especially in philosophy of value, and the education of national character. Anti-corruption counseling is her additional competency. (email: sumaryati@ppkn.uad.ac.id).

Ali Tarmuji, Universitas Ahmad Dahlan

is an academic and permanent lecturer dedicated to the Informatics Study Program at the Faculty of Industrial Technology, Universitas Ahmad Dahlan, Indonesia. He is widely known for his expertise in the fields of Software Engineering (Software Engineering), Mobile Programming, and Information Systems, which is the focus of his academic and research career. (email: alitarmuji@tif.uad.ac.id).

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Published

2026-01-25

How to Cite

Sukmayadi, T., Sumaryati, & Tarmuji, A. (2026). Analysis of Constraints, Perceptions, and Determining Factors for Success in Implementing the Merdeka Belajar Curriculum in Indonesia: A Case Study at Muhammadiyah Kasihan Bantul Middle School, Special Region of Yogyakarta. Journal of Pedagogy and Education Science, 5(01), 72–83. https://doi.org/10.56741/IISTR.jpes.001170

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