Merdeka belajar platform: cultivating novice teachers' core competence in induction program

Abstract

This study aims to explore the adoption of mobile technology named Merdeka Mengajar Platform to enhance the pedagogical content knowledge of novice teachers during their induction program. Additionally, it investigates the benefits experienced by novice teachers when using a mobile technology application designed to understand and implement the Kurikukum Merdeka. A mixed-methods approach was employed to collect data. Sixty novice teachers from 16 senior high schools in West Bandung Regency participated by completing a questionnaire, and eight teachers were interviewed to provide additional insights. The findings reveal that using mobile phones to access the  Merdeka Mengajar Platform offers several advantages: 1) it allows novice teachers to acquire fundamental pedagogical knowledge at their own pace, 2) it improves their teaching practices by facilitating the implementation of the Kurikulum Merdeka in their classrooms, 3) it enables them to share their practical experiences on the  Merdeka Mengajar Platform, 4) it satisfies teachers by enhancing their core competence during the induction program, and 5) it serves as an additional source of guidance alongside their mentors. In conclusion, novice teachers enrolled in induction programs benefit significantly from the Merdeka Mengajar Platform, which provides them with on-demand accessibility via their mobile devices, irrespective of time and location.