THE MAIN CHALLENGE FOR CATHOLIC RELIGIOUS EDUCATION TEACHERS IN IMPLEMENTING THE INDEPENDENT CURRICULUM AT STATE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PERUMNAS 1 WAENA JAYAPURA

Abstract

This study aims to describe the implementation of the Independent Curriculum in Catholic Religious Education, identify the challenges involved, and describe the teachers' efforts to overcome these challenges at State Elementary School Waena Jayapura. The research focuses on the implementation of the Independent Curriculum within Catholic Religious Education instruction. A descriptive qualitative approach was employed, utilizing data collection techniques such as in-depth interviews, participant observation, and document analysis. The ten informants included the school principal, classroom teachers, Catholic Religious Education teachers, and students. The findings indicate that the implementation of the Independent Curriculum in Catholic Religious Education has proceeded across four dimensions: active and varied teaching methods, differentiated instruction, the integration of Catholic faith values ​​into the P5. Key challenges identified include limited technological infrastructure, demands for creativity and the burden of pedagogical innovation, a shortage of religious education teachers, and limited access to professional training. Teachers' adaptation efforts include establishing informal support networks, developing alternative learning media, and utilizing Teacher Learning Communities. The study concludes that, from a pedagogical standpoint, the implementation of the independent curriculum for Catholic Religious Education has been successful; however, its sustainability and quality improvement depend heavily on resolving structural issues that require systemic policy responses from the education office, the diocese, and the school committee.

Keywords: Challenges for Christian Religious Education Teachers: Implementing the Independent Curriculum