Independent Curriculum: Implementation and Challenges at SMK Negeri 1 Karang Baru Aceh Tamiang

The independent curriculum policy frees students to explore their abilities in learning according to their talents and potential, therefore the teacher only acts as a learning facilitator. SMK Negeri 1 Karang Baru is one of the schools in Aceh Tamiang Regency that has implemented an independent curriculum. This paper aims to see how the implementation of the independent curriculum in the learning process at SMKN 1 Karang Baru and the obstacles felt in its implementation. The researcher used a qualitative research approach, data collection was carried out by observation, interviews, and documentation. The results showed that the implementation of the independent curriculum at SMKN 1 Karang Baru has brought quality improvements to the learning process through the implementation of the Pancasila student profile project (P5) to make students more motivated in developing their quality and potential. The learning process in the classroom can be adjusted according to student needs and provides opportunities for students to optimize their ability to understand the material in more depth. Diagnostic assessment is the right learning assessment used to further identify students' competencies, abilities, and weaknesses. However, there are still classic problems such as limited teacher resources in mastering technology and the lack of procurement of learning media and products that are by the talents and potential of students at SMK Negeri 1 Karang Baru.