DEVELOPMENT OF SOCIAL STUDIES AT MUHAMMADIYAH 05 MIDDLE SCHOOL MEDAN

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the development of Social Studies (IPS) learning at SMP Muhammadiyah 05 Medan, particularly in the context of implementing the Merdeka Curriculum. The research method used is descriptive qualitative through interviews, observations, and documentation. The research findings indicate significant changes in the approach to SSE learning, shifting from a conventional teacher-centered model to a more contextual, participatory, and student-experience-based method. Teachers act as active agents of change, designing innovative teaching methods and utilizing digital media. However, challenges such as low student interest, overlapping curriculum content, and limitations in facilities and learning time remain obstacles. The adaptive efforts made by teachers highlight the importance of creativity and institutional support in addressing these issues. These findings emphasize that the sustainability of social studies learning development is highly dependent on teacher initiative and the availability of adequate resources. Therefore, improvements in facilities and teacher training are needed to optimize the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum and enhance the quality of social studies education at SMP Muhammadiyah 05 Medan.