Implementasi Kurikulum Merdeka Dalam Pembelajaran Bahasa Indonesia Dan Dampaknya Terhadap Kompetensi Berpikir Kritis Siswa

Abstract

The Merdeka Curriculum, implemented by the Indonesian Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology since 2022, emphasizes a flexible and student-centered learning approach. This study aims to analyze the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum in Indonesian language subjects at the senior high school (SMA) level and its impact on students’ critical thinking skills. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, with a sample of 150 students from three senior high schools in West Java. Data were collected through critical thinking tests based on the Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal, classroom observations, and interviews with teachers.

The results show that the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum—through problem-based projects and group discussions—significantly improved students’ critical thinking scores from an average of 65% to 82% after one semester. The discussion reveals that elements such as differentiated instruction and formative assessment contributed positively, although challenges

such as limited teacher resources remain. The study concludes that the Merdeka Curriculum is effective in developing critical thinking in Indonesian language learning, with recommendations for further teacher training. This research provides implications for national curriculum development, emphasizing the importance of local adaptation for optimal outcomes.