Kampus Mengajar: Students^ Experiences and Contributions in the Rural, Under-Resourced Schools
Tri Indri Hardini, Yulianeta, Dingding Haerudin, Yanty Wirza

Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia
Jl. Setiabudi No. 229 Bandung
Jawa Barat

Abstract

This study examines the students^ participation in the Kampus Mengajar Program Batch 2, one of the flagship programs in the MBKM (Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka - Independent to Learn, Independent Campus) scheme, sponsored by the Indonesian Ministry of Education, Culture, Research and Technology. Employing a qualitative case study design with 15 students as participants, the study distributed a questionnaire, conducted a focus discussion with 8 of the students, and collected relevant documents pertaining to the students^ experience during the 6-month KM participation, spanning from August to December 2021. The collected data were analyzed and triangulated to identify the participants^ contribution and lessons learned throughout the program. The findings indicate that made significant contributions through the initiation of various literacy programs as they were placed in the rural, under-resourced schools that such support would not have been made possible otherwise. Some of the programs worth mentioning are library/reading corner, enhancing and diversifying (basic) literacy activities, and deeper engagement with the community. Furthermore, since the students were placed with other students from different majors, the interdisciplinary collaboration among these students became prominent in supporting the schools in improving the teaching learning practices, school managerial activities and technology implementation.

Keywords: Kampus Mengajar Program, literacy, MBKM, under-resourced schools

Topic: Opportunities and Challenges for Future Teachers