Compliance or Creativity? Students' Dilemma in the National Education Evaluation System

Abstract

Indonesia's national education evaluation system often focuses on adherence to academic standards, emphasizing test scores as an indicator of student success. This study aims to explore the dilemmas students face in an evaluation system that prioritizes grades and academic standards over the development of creativity and critical thinking. The results indicate that pressure to meet academic standards reduces students' motivation to learn, creates anxiety, and limits their opportunities for creative and independent thinking. While standardized test-based evaluation systems, such as the National Examination (UN) and National Assessment (AN), attempt to provide a more holistic picture, they still face challenges in providing space for 21st-century skills. Furthermore, limited space for creative exploration in the learning process exacerbates this situation, with many students feeling inhibited from developing innovative ideas. This study recommends reforming the evaluation system to create a balance between academic achievement and creative skill development, by providing space for idea exploration and critical thinking. Project-based and portfolio-based evaluations can be alternatives to support the development of 21st-century skills.