Competency-Based Curriculum Development in Indonesia

Abstract

Competency-Based Curriculum Development is one of the strategic efforts undertaken by the Indonesian government to improve the quality of education and prepare students to meet the challenges of the twenty-first century. This curriculum emphasizes the achievement of competencies that integrate knowledge, skills, and attitudes, enabling learners to apply what they have learned in real-life situations. The purpose of this article is to examine the concept, objectives, characteristics, and implementation of competency-based curriculum development in Indonesia. This study uses a library research method by reviewing relevant books, scientific journals, educational regulations, and policy documents. The findings reveal that competency-based curriculum development has played a significant role in educational reform in Indonesia, beginning with the Competency-Based Curriculum (KBK) 2004, followed by the School-Based Curriculum (KTSP) 2006, the 2013 Curriculum, and the Merdeka Curriculum. The implementation of this approach has shifted the focus of learning from content mastery to the development of measurable competencies, encouraging student-centered learning, authentic assessment, critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Despite its many advantages, the implementation of a competency-based curriculum continues to face challenges, including limited educational facilities, disparities in educational quality, and the need to improve teachers’ professional competencies. Nevertheless, this curriculum remains highly relevant to the demands of modern education because it supports the development of adaptive, innovative, and competitive human resources. Therefore, continuous improvement and support from all educational stakeholders are necessary to ensure the successful implementation of competency-based curriculum development in Indonesia.