Merdeka Curriculum and Education 4.0 to Prepare for Demographic Bonus in Elementary School

Abstract

Demographic bonus is a phenomenon that occurs when the number of productive age population (15-64 years) is greater than the number of non-productive age population (0-14 years and 65 years and over). Indonesia is predicted to experience a demographic bonus in 2030-2040. This demographic bonus is a golden opportunity for Indonesia to improve its economy. However, to take advantage of this opportunity, Indonesia needs to prepare superior human resources (HR). The Merdeka Curriculum is a curriculum designed to prepare superior human resources in the era of the industrial revolution 4.0. This curriculum provides flexibility for schools and teachers to develop curricula according to the needs and potential of their regions. Education 4.0 is an educational concept that utilizes information and communication technology (ICT) to improve the quality of learning. Education 4.0 can support the implementation of an independent curriculum by providing various learning resources and ICT-based learning facilities. With the revitalization of education towards digital-based Education 4.0, it is expected to add variety in learning and can achieve the desired learning goals. This study aims to examine the role of education 4.0 in the implementation of the independent curriculum as an effort to prepare for the demographic bonus in elementary schools. This research uses qualitative methods with a field research approach, where research objects and studies are carried out in the field. Data are obtained by observation, interviews and documentation. The results showed that education 4.0 can play a role in the implementation of the independent curriculum in several ways, namely increasing access and quality of learning, developing 21st century skills, supporting more personalized learning, creating a more interesting and fun learning environment. This study concludes that education 4.0 is one of the important factors that can support the implementation of an independent curriculum. To optimally utilize the role of education 4.0, support from various parties is needed, including the government, schools, teachers, and parents.