Management of Learning Community Program in Improving The Professional Competence of Public Elementary School Teachers in Cintanagara, Cianjur Regency

Abstract

Amid demands of Indonesia’s Independent Curriculum, rural elementary teachers—such as at SDN Cintanagara, Cianjur—face challenges in professional competence, including low participation in self-development and limited adaptation to learning technology. The Learning Community Program (PKB), part of the Internal Quality Assurance System (SPMI), is intended as a managerial strategy to enhance teacher competence but encounters obstacles in coordination and monitoring/evaluation. This qualitative case study analyzes PKB management (planning, implementation, evaluation) and its impact on teacher development at SDN Cintanagara, using in-depth interviews, participant observation, and document analysis, with thematic analysis and triangulation. Grounded in Bush’s POAC educational management theory, Wenger’s learning community concept, and SPMI policy (Permendikbud No. 28/2016), findings show PKB management is moderately effective: ~75% success in planning/implementation via MGMP and KKG activities, and a 68% increase in pedagogical competence (pre-/post-test). Evaluation remains suboptimal due to limited measurable indicators. Overall, PKB significantly improves professional competence when supported by continuous monitoring, strong school leadership, and digital platforms for hybrid learning communities.