Teachers' Efforts in Implementing the Merdeka Belajar Curriculum in the Aqidah Akhlak Subject to Enhance Student Creativity at MAN Kota Solok

This research investigates the implementation of the Merdeka Belajar (Independent Learning) curriculum in Aqidah Akhlak (Islamic Creed and Ethics) education at MAN Kota Solok, focusing on enhancing student creativity. The study addresses the problem of how teachers plan, implement, and evaluate the curriculum to foster creativity and moral development among students. The primary objective is to explore the strategies and methodologies employed by educators in aligning the curriculum with national competency standards while promoting holistic student growth. To achieve this, the study employs a qualitative approach, utilizing classroom observations, interviews, and document analysis to gather data on teacher planning, implementation, and evaluation practices. The findings reveal that effective planning in cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains significantly enhances student creativity. Collaborative learning strategies, such as group discussions and project-based activities, are instrumental in fostering creativity and moral development. Teachers play a pivotal role as mentors and role models, integrating Aqidah Akhlak lessons with school activities to ensure practical application of moral principles. Evaluation techniques, including cognitive, emotional, and psychomotor assessments, are crucial for measuring student understanding and internalization of moral values. The study concludes that structured planning, diverse teaching methods, and comprehensive evaluation are essential for achieving the goals of the Merdeka Belajar curriculum in Aqidah Akhlak education. These strategies not only enhance creativity but also cultivate moral and religious values, preparing students to become well-rounded individuals. The research contributes to the broader discourse on Islamic education by providing a framework for integrating independent learning principles with moral and ethical development.