Optimizing the Use of PMM in Enhancing Students’ Literacy Skills in the Digital Era

Abstract

This article aims to analyze the development of students’ literacy competencies through the use of digital media launched by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology in the form of the “Platform Merdeka Mengajar” (PMM) application. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of PMM in improving students' literacy skills. A qualitative research approach was used, based on data from Education Report analysis (Raport Pendidikan), direct observations, and interviews with teachers and students who utilize PMM. The findings indicate that PMM provides interactive and flexible learning resources and assists teachers in designing more effective literacy-based learning programs. The platform also has a tangible impact on enhancing students’ learning motivation and critical thinking skills. However, the study also identified several challenges, such as unequal access to technology and a lack of adequate teacher training in utilizing the platform optimally. Recommendations from this research include increasing teacher training on PMM usage, improving technological infrastructure in schools, and integrating the platform more comprehensively with the curriculum so that the benefits of improved literacy can be more widely experienced by students across Indonesia.