Freedom to Learn: Real Stories, Practical Tips, and School Examples

Have you ever heard about a teacher at a secondary school in Yogyakarta who transformed the way their students learn simply with one idea? That idea is known as Freedom to Learn (or Merdeka Belajar in Indonesian). This approach has gained attention in Indonesia as it allows both teachers and students to create learning experiences that are more creative, relevant, and enjoyable.

What is Freedom to Learn?

Freedom to Learn is an educational initiative introduced by the Indonesian Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology. Its primary goal is to give teachers more autonomy in teaching and students more freedom in learning. Students are no longer restricted to textbooks or rigid curricula; instead, they can pursue learning according to their interests, talents, and needs, while teachers act as facilitators and mentors.

This concept is more than just theory. Teachers and students are already experiencing its benefits through various flexible classroom innovations and methods.

How Freedom to Learn Works in Schools

At SMK Negeri 2 Yogyakarta, for example, a science teacher allowed students to select their own research projects. Instead of following pre-set topics, students could investigate local environmental issues, create simple experiments, or even develop educational apps. The result? Students became more motivated because they were learning about something that truly interested them.

Similarly, at SMP Negeri 5 Bandung, a mathematics teacher allowed students to form study groups according to their skills and interests. Some focused on logical problem-solving, while others preferred to explore practical applications of mathematics in everyday life. This approach made learning more meaningful and engaging for each student.

Benefits of Freedom to Learn

• Flexible Learning: Students can tailor their learning materials and methods to suit their abilities.
• Creative Teaching: Teachers have the freedom to innovate, using projects, discussions, and digital tools.
• Increased Student Motivation: Learning according to personal interests encourages active engagement.
• Future Skills Development: Students are trained to think critically, creatively, and adaptively.
• Inclusive Education: Every student, including those with special needs, can learn in ways that suit them.

Practical Tips for Implementing Freedom to Learn

1. Understand Students’ Interests and Talents

The first step is to get to know your students. Conduct simple surveys or informal discussions to learn what they enjoy, their challenges, and how they prefer to learn. Knowing students’ interests helps teachers tailor lessons to be more relevant and engaging.

2. Employ Varied Learning Methods

Freedom to Learn encourages teachers to move beyond a single teaching method. Combine different approaches such as:

• Group discussions
• Creative projects
• Simulations and experiments
• Technology-assisted and multimedia learning

For instance, at SMA Negeri 1 Surabaya, a history teacher used documentaries and role-playing activities to make lessons more engaging.

3. Give Students Choices

One of the core principles of Freedom to Learn is allowing students to make choices. They might select research topics, project formats, or group partners according to their preferences. This enhances responsibility and motivation.

4. Focus on Competence, Not Just Grades

Assessment should not only focus on marks but also on students’ critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration skills. A student completing a scientific project may not achieve perfect theoretical scores, yet they demonstrate remarkable research and presentation abilities.

5. Integrate Technology

In today’s digital age, technology can greatly support Freedom to Learn. Teachers can use online learning platforms, interactive quizzes, and digital discussion forums so students can learn anytime, anywhere.

Inspirational Stories from Schools

At SD Negeri 12 Semarang, a teacher assigned students to write short stories, allowing them to choose themes like mystery, fantasy, or personal experiences. One student, Rina, wrote about helping elderly neighbours. Her story went viral in class and inspired other students to write with passion, showing how Freedom to Learn can spark creativity and empathy.

At SMA Negeri 3 Malang, a chemistry teacher encouraged students to conduct simple home experiments using easily accessible materials. Students recorded and shared videos of their experiments, deepening their understanding because they experienced the process hands-on rather than just reading from a textbook.

The Future of Education with Freedom to Learn

Freedom to Learn is not just a temporary programme; it represents a new paradigm in education. By emphasising autonomy, creativity, and relevance, both teachers and students can create learning environments that are effective, enjoyable, and meaningful.

In the coming years, Freedom to Learn is expected to transform Indonesian education from a rigid, uniform system into an adaptive, inclusive, and innovative one. Each student can develop according to their potential, while teachers act as inspiring facilitators.

Conclusion

Freedom to Learn carries a simple but powerful message: learning should be enjoyable, relevant, and aligned with students’ interests and abilities. With this approach, education becomes more alive, teachers more creative, and students more motivated. Implementing Freedom to Learn requires courage and innovation, but its benefits are clear: students become active, creative, and ready to face future challenges.