Developing an Innovative Curriculum through the Block System and Outcome-Based Education: A Thematic Approach to Higher Education
Novita Indah Hasibuan(a), Danny Ajar Baskoro(b*), Nadia Amelia Elyana Poluan(c),Richna Handriyani(d)

124 Program Studi Pendidikan Bisnis,Universitas Negeri Medan, Indonesia
*ajarbaskoro[at]unimed.ac.id
3Program Studi Pendidikan Administrasi Perkantoran,Universitas Negeri Medan, Indonesia

Abstract

This study explores the development of an innovative curriculum model that integrates the block system and Outcome-Based Education (OBE) through a thematic approach in higher education. Responding to the growing demand for more flexible, contextual, and competency-oriented learning, the research investigates how thematic block-based learning can enhance student engagement and align academic content with real-world competencies. Using qualitative methods-including literature reviews, in-depth interviews with educators and industry representatives, focus group discussions (FGDs), and curriculum document analysis-this preliminary study was conducted in the Business Education Department at Universitas Negeri Medan and the Commerce Education Department at Universitas Negeri Malang. The results reveal that the thematic-block structure allows for more focused and immersive learning experiences, facilitates interdisciplinary collaboration, and strengthens the link between academic goals and industry expectations. This research contributes to the discourse on curriculum transformation in higher education and offers practical insights for institutions seeking to implement competency-based and future-ready education models.

Keywords: Thematic Curriculum,Block System ,Outcome-Based Education (OBE),Higher Education Innovation,Competency-Based Learning

Topic: Education in Mathematics, science and Vocational