Last modified: 2021-12-15
Abstract
The essence of Independent Learning (MB-KM) programs proposed by Ministry of Education and Culture is to explore the potentials of university learners and students in innovating and improving the quality of learning independently beyond the main study programs. In line with MB-KM policies, higher education should implement strategic policies to transform education through harmonization of Higher Education Main Performance Indicators (IKU). This qualitative reflective study collected the data through surveys and focus group discussions with students and relevant stakeholders. The results of this study show that several activities that accommodate the implementation of MB-KM include teaching at schools, research and internships, student exchanges/mobility, independent studies and certified internships. Several issues emerged in the implementation of the programs, namely the activities run at the same time so that the MB-KM system/account managed by the Ministry of Education and Culture has not been able to accommodate registered participants. As a result, the list of students is not stable as well as the lecturers involved; the implementation of on-site and online programs during the partial social restrictions due to pandemic leads to mutual jealousy among students; concerns from universities whose burdens to accommodate the programs. Lastly, the need for synchronization of MB-KM policies between public and private universities, especially in relation to fund management and credit transfer and conversion policies.