The Influence of Merdeka Curriculum Implementation on Students' Learning Interest at SMA Negeri 3 Ambon

Pengaruh Implementasi Kurikulum Merdeka Terhadap Minat Belajar Siswa SMA Negeri 3 Ambon

Abstract

Education is a key factor in improving the quality of human resources, where the curriculum plays a crucial role as a guide in the learning process. The Merdeka Curriculum is the latest policy aimed at providing flexibility in teaching methods to make learning more relevant to students' needs. This study aims to analyze the influence of the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum on students' learning interest at SMA Negeri 3 Ambon. This research adopts a quantitative approach using survey methods and simple linear regression analysis. Data were collected through questionnaires distributed to 30 randomly selected students from grades X and XI using a simple random sampling technique. The results indicate that the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum has a positive and significant influence on students' learning interest. Regression analysis yielded a regression coefficient of 0.590 with a Beta value of 0.643, indicating that the better the curriculum implementation, the higher the students' learning interest. The significance value (p-value) of 0.000 (<0.05) confirms a strong relationship between the two variables. These findings support the theory that a flexible, project-based, and student-centered learning system can enhance student engagement in the learning process. However, the effectiveness of the Merdeka Curriculum implementation still depends on teacher readiness, availability of learning facilities, and teaching strategies applied in the classroom. The findings of this study provide practical implications for schools in evaluating and optimizing the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum. Strengthening teacher competencies, utilizing technology in learning, and increasing student involvement in project-based activities are strategic steps that can be implemented to enhance students' learning interest sustainably. With continuous improvements in curriculum implementation, it is expected to create a more interactive, innovative, and modern learning environment.