Entoh Tohani, Aprilia Tina Lidyasari, Ganda Sukmara, Nita Maghfiratul Jannah
Laboratory schools play a pivotal role in fostering meaningful education for students. Achieving this goal requires effectively implementing internal quality assurance (IQA). This qualitative study investigated the implementation of IQA at the Laboratory School of Universitas Negeri Padang (UNP), Indonesia, assessed the factors influencing its performance, and identified areas for further development. Data were gathered through interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs), observations, and document analysis. The data were analyzed using data reduction techniques, presentation, and conclusion drawing. The data was then validated through source and method triangulation. The results indicate that UNP's Laboratory School has implemented IQA comprehensively, characterized by developing an adaptive curriculum, rigorous recruitment of educators and staff, adequate facilities, and continuous evaluation. Leadership, both at the school and university level, plays a significant role in shaping the performance of IQA. Organizational culture and support from the university are also influential factors. Critical areas for development include strengthening monitoring and evaluation systems, enhancing human resource capacity, and increasing student engagement. This study provides recommendations to optimize IQA implementation further, ultimately contributing to the realization of meaningful education at UNP's Laboratory School. © 2025 Author(s).
Non-formal Education Department, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology, Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Indonesia; Elementary School Education Department, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology, Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Indonesia; Research and Community Service, Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
