EXPLORATION OF SOCIAL STUDIES TEACHERS' PRACTICES IN MANAGING AND INTEGRATING VARIOUS LEARNING RESOURCES TO OPTIMIZE LEARNING IN JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOLS

Abstract

This study aims to explore the practices of Social Studies (IPS) teachers in Junior High Schools in managing and integrating various learning resources to support more effective and meaningful learning. The background of this study is based on the need for learning innovations that are able to adapt to the development of the times and the increasingly diverse characteristics of students. This study uses a descriptive qualitative approach with data collection techniques through interviews with several IPS teachers and literature studies from relevant scientific sources. The data obtained were analyzed in depth to understand the strategies, challenges, and solutions taken by teachers in utilizing learning resources. The analysis was carried out by examining the teacher's approach in selecting and combining learning resources, both conventional ones such as textbooks and digital and contextual ones such as articles, videos, interactive applications and the local environment. In addition, the creativity of teachers in adapting teaching materials to students' learning styles and cooperation between teachers in developing learning strategies were also reviewed. The results of the study showed that teachers had high initiative in enriching learning through the use of varied learning resources. They realized that using textbooks alone was not enough to maintain student interest and engagement, so they innovated by combining digital media, field experiences, and local wisdom-based teaching materials. Teachers also adjusted their approach to student characteristics and needs through project-based learning methods, classroom observations, and educational games. Collaboration between teachers also became an important supporting factor in creating an adaptive and collaborative learning process. However, challenges such as limited access to technology, time, and teacher readiness are still obstacles faced in the field. Social studies teachers showed a high commitment to optimizing learning through the integration of diverse learning resources. This practice not only improved students' understanding and motivation, but also enriched their learning experiences with more real and relevant contexts. In the future, it is hoped that integrative efforts between digital, local, and textbook learning resources will continue to be strengthened along with ongoing training support so that learning is more inclusive, creative, and responsive to the dynamics of modern education.