An Analysis of The Teachers Challenges in
Implementing the Independent Curriculum in English Language Learning in A
Rural Junior High School. Supervisor Kunto Nurcahyoko, M.A., M.Pd. Thesis.
Landak Regency: Faculty of Teacher Training and Education. Universitas Katolik
Santo Agustinus Hippo.2024.
The evolving curriculum faces challenges in teacher adaptation, especially
in rural areas, teachers struggle to understand and effectively implement the new
curriculum. The independent Curriculum aims to support teachers in their teaching
tasks and understanding the diverse characteristics of students, but the
implementation in the area is constrained by the lack of training, resources, and
limited learning time for English language teachers.
This research investigates teachers' challenges and strategies in
implementing the independent curriculum in English language learning, especially
teachers in rural areas. This research used a descriptive qualitative method with a
case study. The subjects of this research were English teachers at SMPN 02 Noyan
and SMPN 03 Satap, Noyan District. The data collection used Semi-structured
interviews, observation, and documentation. The data analysis techniques used
were data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. Data validity was
used in data source triangulation.
This study found that teachers face obstacles due to the lack of training from
the government and an inability to understand the independent curriculum.
Difficulties arise in making learning modules and selecting media and methods that
suit the characteristics of students. This is an effect of limited learning media,
training, and facilities at school. To overcome the challenges, Teachers try to find
sources of information online and learn independently to improve their abilities
through the Merdeka Teaching Platform (PMM). This study concludes that
although both schools have implemented English language learning based on the
Independent Curriculum, implementation has not been effective due to a lack of
teacher training and understanding, lack of resources, and limited learning time. It
is expected that schools can increase resources that support the curriculum and
provide ongoing training for teachers.