Elementary School Civics Materials and Curriculum

Abstract

The implementation of Civics Education (PPKn) in elementary schools plays a strategic role in developing students’ character, citizenship competence, and understanding of national values. The introduction of the Merdeka Curriculum has encouraged teachers to adapt learning materials to learning outcomes while promoting student-centered learning. However, various challenges remain in ensuring the alignment between instructional materials and curriculum objectives. This study aims to analyze the implementation of Civics learning materials, examine their alignment with learning outcomes, and identify challenges encountered by teachers in elementary schools. The study employed a qualitative descriptive approach involving interviews, observations, and document analysis conducted in three elementary schools in Lampung Province, Indonesia. The findings indicate that teachers generally align Civics learning materials with curriculum learning outcomes through the development of teaching modules and lesson plans. The implementation also supports the development of Pancasila values, nationalism, democratic attitudes, and social responsibility. Nevertheless, challenges such as differences in students’ learning abilities, limited instructional time, and inadequate learning media continue to affect learning effectiveness. The study concludes that successful implementation of Civics learning materials depends on teachers’ pedagogical competence, continuous professional development, and adequate educational resources. The findings contribute to understanding how the Merdeka Curriculum can strengthen civic education in elementary schools.