Malang—To improve the quality of education within Muhammadiyah educational institutions, the Community Service Team (PPM) of the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Muhammadiyah Malang (FKIP UMM), in collaboration with the Muhammadiyah Teachers Forum and the Muhammadiyah Regional Leadership of Malang Regency, conducted a training session on the implementation of the Independent Curriculum with a Project-Based Learning (PBL) approach, Thursday (10/3/2024). The event, held at SMK Muhammadiyah 7 Gondanglegi, Malang Regency, received an enthusiastic response from 50 participants representing over 20 Muhammadiyah schools in the area.
In his remarks, Drs. Gigit Mujianto, M.Si., the Head of the PPM FKIP UMM team, explained that the primary goal of the training was to enhance the knowledge capacity and innovation in teaching among educators, aiming to improve the quality of education in Muhammadiyah schools.
“This activity is intended to boost knowledge capacity and learning innovation, which is expected to elevate the quality of education within Muhammadiyah educational institutions,” stated Gigit Mujianto. He emphasized that implementing the Independent Curriculum with a Project-Based Learning approach is a strategic step to prepare students for future challenges, where they are required not only to master theories but also to apply them in real-life situations.
The training was designed to provide participants not only with theoretical understanding but also with practical skills to design and implement project-based teaching materials. The expected outcomes include the development of teaching aids, teaching modules, and innovative learning videos that can serve as effective classroom teaching media.
On the same occasion, Dr. Agus Tinus, M.Pd., the Head of Dikdasmen (Basic and Secondary Education Council) of Malang Regency, stressed the importance of implementing the Independent Curriculum with a comprehensive understanding. “This is crucial to ensure that project-based learning does not become a mere routine but truly fosters critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity among students,” said Agus Tinus.
To appreciate educators who successfully created the best learning products, the Dikdasmen Council of the Muhammadiyah Regional Leadership of Malang Regency awarded those who developed outstanding teaching aids, modules, and learning videos during the training. These awards aim to motivate teachers to continue innovating and developing more creative teaching methods tailored to students’ needs.
The enthusiasm of participants was evident from the many questions and interactive discussions throughout the training sessions. With the participation of 50 teachers from over 20 Muhammadiyah schools, the event is expected to be a significant step in enhancing the quality of education in Malang Regency, particularly under Muhammadiyah's umbrella.
This training on implementing the Independent Curriculum with a Project-Based Learning approach is not just a one-time event but is expected to foster a culture of innovative learning and focus on 21st-century skills development among Muhammadiyah educators. (*)
