Journal Evaluation in Education (JEE)

Implementation of Differentiated Instruction for BIPA Students in Learning the Indonesian Language

2026-01-09T15:25:39+07:00

Purpose of the Study: This study explores the implementation of differentiated instruction in teaching Bahasa Indonesia to foreign speakers, focusing on how adaptive teaching strategies address linguistic and cultural barriers while enhancing learners' communicative competence. Differentiated instruction allows educators to modify content, processes, and assessments based on students’ varying proficiency levels, learning preferences, and cultural contexts creating an inclusive and engaging language-learning environment.

Methodology: A qualitative case study approach was employed to provide an in-depth understanding of instructional practices. The participants were 20 foreign students (8 males and 12 females) from diverse countries enrolled in a Bahasa Indonesia course at the State University of Surabaya. Data were gathered through classroom observations, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis. Thematic analysis was applied to identify patterns in instructional adaptation, learner engagement, and classroom implementation challenges.

Main Findings: The results demonstrated that differentiated instruction significantly improved students’ language acquisition, participation, and motivation. Learners benefited from varied learning activities, technology-enhanced tools, and flexible assessment approaches that accommodated different linguistic abilities and cultural backgrounds. Nevertheless, the study identified challenges in lesson preparation time and teachers’ capacity to maintain instructional consistency.

Novelty/Originality of this Study: This research offers one of the first comprehensive examinations of differentiated instruction in the context of Bahasa Indonesia as a foreign language. It offers a culturally responsive pedagogical model that bridges linguistic diversity with inclusive education principles, providing theoretical and practical guidance for educators seeking to enhance equitable, learner-centered language teaching practices in multicultural classrooms.

Poetry as a Multidimensional Medium for Language, Literacy, and Social Reflection in Elementary Education

2026-01-09T15:24:19+07:00

Purpose of the Study: Poetry offers not only aesthetic value but also potential as a learning tool that supports children’s language growth, literacy competence, and social awareness. However, poetry is still rarely positioned as a multidimensional pedagogical medium in elementary education. Therefore, this study aims to analyze how poetry functions as a medium for language development, literacy education, and social reflection in elementary classrooms.

Methodology: This study used a qualitative descriptive design involving six purposively selected elementary schools. Data were obtained from five Indonesian language teachers, twelve students, classroom observations, and documentation of students’ poetry works. Data were analyzed using the Miles, Huberman, and Saldana model, through data condensation, display, and conclusion drawing, with validity ensured using source and methodological triangulation.

Main Findings: The findings indicate that poetry improves linguistic competence, particularly vocabulary, diction, and figurative language understanding. Poetry also strengthens students’ literacy through close reading, interpretive discussion, and creative writing engagement. Furthermore, poetry becomes a reflective tool for students to express environmental issues, family dynamics, friendship, and cultural identity.

Novelty/Originality of this Study: This study demonstrates that poetry is a multidimensional learning medium that simultaneously develops language skill, literacy depth, and socio-emotional awareness. The novelty lies in its integration of three learning outcomes within one instructional model. Implicationally, poetry-based learning can be adopted as an alternative strategy for teachers to create contextual, expressive, and character-oriented literacy practices in elementary schools.

Leadership, Collaboration, and Satisfaction: A Structural Model of Teachers’ Normative Commitment in Islamic Elementary Schools

2026-01-12T21:01:59+07:00

Purpose of the study: This study investigates the direct and indirect effects of the head of madrasah’s charismatic leadership and teamwork on teachers’ normative commitment, with job satisfaction serving as a mediating variable.

Methodology: Employing a quantitative approach with a survey design, data were collected from 101 teachers of State Islamic Elementary Schools (MIN) in Asahan Regency using proportional random sampling. Path analysis was applied to examine the causal relationships among variables.

Main Findings: findings reveal that charismatic leadership and teamwork significantly influence teachers’ job satisfaction. Furthermore, both variables have direct positive effects on teachers’ normative commitment. Job satisfaction demonstrates the strongest direct effect on normative commitment and significantly mediates the influence of charismatic leadership and teamwork. These results indicate that teachers’ moral obligation and loyalty to their institutions are shaped not only by leadership quality and collaborative work culture but also by their level of satisfaction with work conditions and professional recognition.

Novelty/Originality of this study: The study contributes to educational management literature by emphasizing normative commitment as a critical yet underexplored dimension of teacher commitment in madrasah contexts. Practically, the findings suggest that strengthening charismatic leadership practices, fostering effective teamwork, and improving job satisfaction are strategic pathways to enhancing teachers’ commitment and sustaining educational quality in Islamic elementary schools.

Improving Students' Critical Thinking Skills through a Deep Learning-Oriented Group Investigation Model

2026-01-12T22:22:28+07:00

Purpose of the study: This research aims to improve the critical thinking skills of junior high school students through the application of the Group Investigation cooperative learning model oriented to deep learning on the interaction of living things and their environment.

Methodology: This study uses a quantitative approach with a quasi-experimental design of one group pretest-posttest multiple groups. The subject of the study is the students of grade VII of junior high school which consists of two classes. Data was collected through observation of students’ learning implementation and activities, critical thinking skills tests, and student response questionnaires, then analyzed using percentage, N-gain, Wilcoxon test, and effect size.

Main Findings: The main findings of this study show that the application of the Group Investigation cooperative learning model oriented to deep learning is able to strengthen the critical thinking skills of junior high school students significantly and meaningfully. The integration of deep learning approaches at each stage of investigation encourages a high level of cognitive engagement through the process of analysis, evaluation, and conceptual reflection.

Novelty/Originality of this study: The Group Investigation model in general, this study presents a novelty in the form of integrating a deep learning approach into each stage of GI to encourage the process of analysis, evaluation, and conceptual reflection of students, so that the improvement of critical thinking skills does not only occur quantitatively, but also in every critical thinking indicator.

Digital Ethnography of Nongnong Mbaham: Oral Literature Revitalization for Cultural Identity and Contextual Learning Innovation in Papuan Education

2026-01-13T23:06:07+07:00

Purpose of the study: This study investigates Nongnong Mbaham as a living oral tradition, examines its transformation within digital environments, and explores its potential as a contextual learning innovation in Papuan educational settings.

Methodology: A qualitative digital ethnographic approach was employed, involving participant observation, in-depth interviews, performative analysis, and digital-trace analysis across offline and online cultural spaces.

Main Findings: This study demonstrates that indigenous oral literature can function as a culturally grounded learning resource that supports identity formation, digital literacy, and contextual pedagogy.

Novelty/Originality of this study: This research advances oral-literature studies by integrating digital ethnography with contextual learning innovation, moving beyond documentation toward a sustainable educational revitalization model.

Implementation of Merdeka Curriculum: In Lesson Study Based Differentiated Learning

2026-01-23T10:28:44+07:00

Purpose of the study: This study aims to conduct a meta-analysis of various studies discussing the implementation of the Independent Curriculum (Kurikulum Merdeka) in differentiated learning based on the lesson study approach across different educational levels.

Methodology: The study employs a quantitative meta-analysis method by analyzing 88 articles published between 2020 and 2025, retrieved from several academic databases such as Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, DOAJ, PubMed, WorldCat, Dimensions, and Portal Garuda.

Main Findings: The findings show a very high overall effect size (ES = 1.086; SE = 0.157). Specifically, elementary (ES = 1.049) and senior high schools (ES = 0.826) show high effects, while junior high schools demonstrate the strongest and most consistent impact (ES = 1.475).

Novelty/Originality of this study: This study’s novelty lies in integrating differentiated learning with the lesson study approach under the Independent Curriculum, offering empirical evidence of its strong positive effect on learning quality across educational levels and highlighting its potential as an innovative model for improving teaching effectiveness in Indonesian schools.

Implementation and Effectiveness of Financial Literacy in Higher Education Institutions: A Systematic Literature Review

2026-01-23T11:57:18+07:00

Purpose of the study: This study assesses the implementation and effectiveness of financial literacy education at the higher education level to inform the development of appropriate strategies for its integration in university curricula.

Methodology: Through a systematic literature review using PRISMA methodology, this study investigates the implementation and effectiveness of financial education in universities and colleges. This research examined 127 peer-reviewed articles from leading international journals that were indexed in Scopus and Web of Science databases, documenting research on financial literacy in university contexts between 2015 and 2025

Main Findings: The study demonstrates that financial literacy education differs significantly among universities and has not been uniformly implemented across various academic fields. Economic, business, and finance are the primary areas of focus in financial education applications; however integration into humanities, science, engineering, etc. is minimal

Novelty/Originality of this study: Higher education stakeholders and the public can find the right position on how financial literacy should be implemented at the higher education level. Based on this knowledge, universities can design effective programs and curricula related to financial literacy content in higher education.

Development and Effectiveness of SKIRD Media Integrated with the ONCE Model to Enhance Elementary Students Creativity in Writing Fiction Texts

2026-01-23T20:25:06+07:00

Purpose of the study: This study aims to develop and examine the effectiveness of SKIRD (Skill Card) learning media integrated with the ONCE (Observe, Analyze, Verify, Evaluate) learning model in enhancing elementary school students’ creativity in writing fictional texts. The study addresses the need for innovative instructional media that systematically support creative writing processes at the primary education level.

Methodology: This study employed a quantitative research and development (R&D) approach using the 4D model (Define, Design, Develop, Disseminate). Data were collected through expert validation to assess media feasibility and creativity assessment rubrics administered during pretest and posttest activities. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques to evaluate the effectiveness of the developed learning media.

Main Findings: The results show that the SKIRD learning media achieved a high level of feasibility based on expert validation. Statistical analysis of pretest and posttest scores indicates a significant improvement in students’ creativity in writing fictional texts (p < 0.05). The implementation of SKIRD integrated with the ONCE model enhanced students’ fluency, flexibility, originality, and elaboration in developing fictional narratives.

Novelty/Originality of this study: The novelty of this study lies in the integration of SKIRD card-based learning media with the ONCE reflective learning model to systematically guide elementary students through the stages of creative writing. This study offers a structured instructional framework that links media use with reflective learning processes to enhance creativity in writing fictional texts at the elementary level.

Integrated Teaching Factory Management Model For Character Development in Vocational High Schools: A Study in Rejang Lebong Regency

2026-01-25T16:49:59+07:00

Purpose of the study: The implementation of the Teaching Factory (TeFa) learning model in Vocational high school has developed as a key strategy to enhance the quality of industry-based vocational education. This study aims to analyze the planning, organizing, implementation, and supervision of the Teaching Factory in fostering students’ character development in vocational schools in Rejang Lebong Regency.

Methodology: This research employed a descriptive qualitative approach with a case study strategy conducted in vocational high schools. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and documentation. The data were analyzed using the interactive model proposed by Miles and Huberman, which includes data collection, reduction, presentation, and conclusion drawing.

Main Findings: The findings revealed that TEFA planning begins with the development of human resource planning, financial planning, production planning, and marketing planning. The organizing process involves the active participation of teachers, students, and industrial partners to create a realistic work system while instilling positive character values such as discipline, responsibility, and teamwork. A tangible form of this organizing process is the establishment of the TeFa organizational structure.

Novelty/Originality of this study: The TEFA model has proven effective in cultivating work-ready character traits and supporting students’ preparedness to enter the professional and entrepreneurial sectors. These findings provide a significant contribution to the advancement of holistic, character-based vocational education in Indonesia.

Leadership Practices of Madrasah Principals in the Implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum

2026-01-26T10:42:06+07:00

Purpose of the study: The purpose of this study is to analyze the leadership of madrasah principals in planning, implementation, and evaluation activities in implementing the Merdeka Curriculum that integrates it with Digital Madrasah innovations then analyze the impact of leadership models and digital innovations in the Merdeka Curriculum on the learning process at State Islamic Junior High School.

Methodology: This study uses a qualitative approach with a multi-site study design, which focuses on two state madrasahs in Aceh Tamiang Regency. Data sources include the madrasah principal, deputy head of curriculum, teachers, supervisors, and students.

Main Findings: The results of this study offer novelty in the form of mapping two leadership patterns of madrasah principals in implementing the Merdeka Curriculum that integrates digital innovations, namely the reflective-open model at State Islamic Junior High School 1 and the systemic-digital model at State Islamic Junior High School 2 which result in different strategies in planning, implementation, evaluation, and impact. This study formulates a new model in the form of a cultural-pedagogical versus systemic-pedagogical change pathway, as well as a hybrid reflective-digital evaluation model, which overall form the 'Contextualized Digital-Merdeka Leadership' framework as a significant theoretical and practical contribution.

Novelty/Originality of this study: The research novelty was formulates a new model in the form of a cultural-pedagogical versus systemic-pedagogical change pathway, as well as a hybrid reflective-digital evaluation model, which collectively form the Contextualized Digital-Merdeka Leadership framework as a significant theoretical and practical contribution previously undiscovered in madrasah leadership studies in Indonesia.

Policy Perception and Implementation Satisfaction as Dual Mediators of Student Retention in Multi-Faith Higher Education: A PLS-SEM Study

2026-01-26T12:14:54+07:00

Purpose of the study: This study examines the implementation of the Single Tuition Fee policy at a multi-faith religious higher education institution. This study analyzes student perceptions and satisfaction across various dimensions, identifies causal mechanisms among student characteristics, policy perceptions, implementation satisfaction, and study continuation, and examines the implementation challenges faced by the institution.

Methodology: A mixed-methods sequential explanatory design was employed. Quantitative survey of 159 students (80% response rate) analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). Qualitative data collected through focus groups and interviews. Validated questionnaires measured transparency, accessibility, affordability, responsiveness, and the impact of study continuity.

Main Findings: Results revealed 90% of students would be unable to pursue higher education without the Single Tuition Fee support. Students rated transparency highest (M=4.1), followed by responsiveness (M=3.9), accessibility (M=3.8), study continuity (M=3.7), and affordability (M=3.6). The structural model demonstrated that policy perception strongly influenced implementation satisfaction (β=0.695, p<0.001), which, in turn, significantly affected study continuity (β=0.548, p<0.001). Student characteristics shaped policy perception (β = 0.452, p < 0.001), with full mediation through perceptions and satisfaction.

Novelty/Originality of this study: First comprehensive evaluation of the Single Tuition Fee policy implementation in religious higher education using PLS-SEM methodology. Reveals that policy success operates through a causal chain in which positive perceptions and high-quality implementation matter as much as financial support itself, advancing understanding of the effectiveness of higher education financing in minority religious institutions.

Transformational Leadership and Innovative Work Behaviour: Unveiling the Mediating Roles of Job Satisfaction and Employee Engagement

2026-01-26T14:28:35+07:00

Purpose of the study: This study investigates the influence of transformational leadership on innovative work behaviour among higher education lecturers, utilizing job satisfaction and employee engagement as dual mediating variables. The study aims to provide a comprehensive framework explaining how leadership stimulates innovation through motivational and psychological pathways in academic settings.

Methodology: A quantitative research design was employed involving 206 lecturers selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to evaluate the structural relationships. Validity and reliability tests were conducted to ensure the robustness of the instrument.

Main Findings: The results reveal that transformational leadership significantly enhances job satisfaction, employee engagement, and innovative work behaviour. Crucially, the analysis confirms that both job satisfaction and employee engagement act as significant mediators. These findings imply that transformational leaders foster innovation not only directly but effectively by boosting lecturers’ psychological well-being and engagement.

Novelty/Originality of this study: This study contributes to the literature by establishing a dual-mediation model that simultaneously integrates job satisfaction and employee engagement. Unlike previous studies that often examine these mediators separately, this research offers a holistic view of the psychological mechanisms linking leadership to innovation in the higher education context. The study relies on cross-sectional data from a specific higher education sector, which limits the ability to draw causal inferences over time. Future research is encouraged to employ longitudinal designs and expand the scope to diverse geographical regions to enhance generalizability.