By Muhammad Eko Purwanto
Education is one of the essential foundations in shaping a bright and prosperous future for our children. In Indonesia, Junior High School (SMP) is the level of education that serves as a stepping stone for students to progress to higher levels of education. However, in facing an increasingly competitive global world, there is a need to go beyond the existing education standards so that students can compete effectively and succeed in the future.
One school that adopts an innovative approach to enhancing the quality of learning and exceeding educational standards is the Al Azhar 8 Kemang Pratama Islamic Junior High School. Through the accelerated learning program developed at this school, students can master the material better and proceed to the next level of education more prepared.
The accelerated learning program at the Al Azhar 8 Kemang Pratama Islamic Junior High School is based on the belief that every child has a unique potential. This program provides an education responsive to students' needs and strives to help them optimally develop their abilities and talents. One of the main goals of this program is to provide opportunities for high-potential students to pursue lessons at a pace that suits their development.
Image Source: School Doc. (Students of Al Azhar Islamic Middle School 8 Kemang Pratama, activities at the Al Azhar Kemang Pratama Campus Mosque)
One main component of this program is the implementation of a specially designed curriculum that emphasizes deep understanding, practical application, and active learning. This curriculum design is developed based on the Graduation Competency Standards (SKL) set by the national Ministry of Education and Culture. However, by utilizing innovative teaching methods and providing additional assignments, the Al Azhar 8 Kemang Pratama Islamic Junior High School can explore subjects and class hours beyond the standard curriculum and accelerate students' understanding.
The Al Azhar 8 Kemang Pratama Islamic Junior High School also provides extracurricular opportunities and supporting activities for students participating in the accelerated learning program. Through these activities, students can deepen their interests and talents in areas such as sports, arts, or scientific activities. These opportunities aim to complement the holistic development of students, provide exploration opportunities, and enrich their learning experiences beyond the classroom environment.
To support the implementation of this accelerated learning program, the Al Azhar 8 Kemang Pratama Islamic Junior High School has qualified and dedicated teachers. The teachers at this school are trained to adopt innovative teaching techniques such as project-based approaches, group discussions, and the utilization of information technology. With these varied approaches, students are encouraged to think critically, collaborate, and develop other essential skills to face future challenges.
Image Source: School Documents (Students of Al Azhar Islamic Middle School 8 Kemang Pratama, Discussion activities in the Library)
The Al Azhar 8 Kemang Pratama Islamic Junior High School also implements a more responsive and inclusive evaluation method. The entire teaching and learning process, as well as student achievements, are closely monitored. Teachers provide regular and continuous feedback, and individualized learning efforts are provided when necessary. This helps teachers better understand the needs of each student and provides opportunities for students who have not reached the minimum standards to improve their understanding.