Analysis Regarding the Influence of the Early Childhood Education Management System at TK Al Ma’ruf Samarinda in Improving the Quality of Early Childhood Education

Abstract

Early Childhood Education (ECE/PAUD) is a critically important initial stage in a child's growth and development, as all developmental aspects—such as cognitive, social-emotional, language, and moral—develop rapidly during this period. Therefore, the success of ECE provision is highly dependent on the effectiveness of the institution's management in administering all educational components. This study aims to describe the implementation of ECE management at TK Islam Al Ma’ruf Samarinda, covering organizational structure, curriculum application, human resource management, facilities and infrastructure, and parental involvement in educational activities. The research employs a qualitative approach with a descriptive method. The research subjects consist of the principal, two classroom teachers, one administrative staff member, and one parent, selected using purposive sampling based on their knowledge and experience regarding the implementation of management within the institution. Data was collected through observation, semi-structured interviews, and documentation. The implementation of management at TK Islam Al Ma’ruf Samarinda has been quite effective through the application of management functions, such as program planning, task organization, the execution of the Merdeka Belajar (Independent Learning) curriculum, and continuous evaluation of the learning process. Furthermore, the involvement of parents and the community serves as an important supporting factor in creating a collaborative learning environment. However, some constraints were still found, such as the limited number of non-teaching educational personnel and the need to improve competency in the use of digital learning media. Thus, this research affirms the importance of strengthening institutional management and professional development for educators as an effort to improve the quality of early childhood education services at TK Islam Al Ma’ruf Samarinda.