EVALUASI KINERJA GURU PAI DALAM MENERAPKAN KURIKULUM MERDEKA BELAJAR DI SDN 2 MEKARWANGI KECAMATAN TALEGONG KABUPATEN GARUT

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the performance of Islamic Education (PAI) teachers in implementing the Merdeka Curriculum at SDN 2 Mekarwangi, Talegong District, Garut Regency. The Merdeka Curriculum emphasizes flexibility, differentiated instruction, character strengthening, and authentic assessment. Therefore, the ability of PAI teachers to understand, plan, and carry out learning based on these principles becomes a crucial aspect. This research employs a descriptive qualitative approach with data collected through observations, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The findings reveal that PAI teachers have made significant efforts to apply the Merdeka Curriculum by preparing teaching modules, using interactive learning strategies, and integrating Islamic values into daily learning activities. However, several components are not yet optimally implemented, particularly formative assessment, differentiated learning, and the use of diverse instructional media. The study also identifies several challenges faced by teachers, including limited learning facilities, inadequate curriculum training, and difficulties in designing authentic assessment tools aligned with learning outcomes. Although teachers demonstrate a high level of motivation, they still require intensive guidance and continuous professional development to fully master and consistently apply the Merdeka Curriculum concepts. Overall, the study concludes that the performance of PAI teachers shows promising progress, yet improvements are still needed in planning, instructional implementation, assessment practices, and professional growth. The evaluation results provide a valuable foundation for enhancing the quality of Islamic Education learning that is adaptive, contextual, and supportive of students’ character development.