ANALISIS KELEBIHAN DAN KEKURANGAN DALAM IMPLEMENTASI KURIKULUM MERDEKA DI SEKOLAH DASAR NEGERI 04 MADENAN DI KABUPATEN BULELENG = AN ANALYSIS OF THE STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES OF IMPLEMENTING MERDEKA CURRICULUM AT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 04 MADENAN IN BULELENG REGENCY

The research utilized Michael Fullan’s theory (2014) as the analytical framework to evaluate the findings. The results highlight several strengths of the Merdeka Curriculum, including its flexibility, emphasis on creativity, contextual learning, and character development. Teachers adapt lesson plans to local community needs and employ project-based learning to enhance critical thinking and collaboration skills among students. Additionally, character education integration fosters ethical and moral values aligned with diverse societal contexts. However, significant challenges persist, such as limited teacher training, inadequate resources, and infrastructural deficiencies, especially in remote areas. The administrative burden further limits teachers’ focus on implementing innovative strategies. The findings also reveal a strong commitment to adapting the curriculum to the school's specific needs, as teachers actively reflect on challenges, optimize local resources, and engage in collaborative efforts. However, there is room for improvement in areas like assessment practices and structured community partnerships. Despite these obstacles, the Merdeka Curriculum supports inclusive, student-centered learning through personalized instruction and innovative media-based teaching methods. This study concludes that the transformative potential of the Merdeka Curriculum relies heavily on continuous teacher training, equitable resource distribution, and consistent stakeholder collaboration. Its implementation at Elementary School 04 Madenan in Buleleng Regency demonstrates significant progress in fostering adaptive, contextual, and student-oriented education, yet further efforts are necessary to maximize its impact on advancing the quality of education at both local and national levels.

Keyword : Implementing, Curriculum, Elementary School.