Evaluation of the Merdeka Curriculum in Arabic Language Learning at the MTs Level: A Constructivist Theory Perspective

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum in Arabic language learning at the Madrasah Tsanawiyah (MTs) level using a constructivist perspective, in order to identify the alignment between curricular concepts and classroom practices. This research employs a qualitative approach with a library research design. Data were collected from various scholarly sources, including books, journal articles, and relevant documents, and analyzed using content analysis techniques through stages of identification, classification, and interpretation. The validity of the findings was ensured through source triangulation. The results indicate that, conceptually, the Merdeka Curriculum is highly aligned with constructivist principles, particularly in terms of student-centered learning, flexible instructional planning, and the integration of assessment as an essential component of the learning process. In practice, Arabic language instruction demonstrates a shift toward student-centered learning through the application of active learning models, although teacher-centered approaches still dominate in certain aspects. Assessment practices have begun to adopt authentic and formative approaches, but their implementation remains suboptimal. Furthermore, several challenges persist, including limited teacher pedagogical competence, heterogeneous student abilities, and insufficient learning resources and facilities. Despite these constraints, the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum has positively impacted students’ motivation, engagement, and communicative competence in Arabic language learning.