Challenges of Education in the Digital Era: Between Gadgets and the Character of the Nation in Indonesia

The rapid development of digital technology has significantly changed educational practices in Indonesia, particularly through the increasing use of gadgets in teaching and learning. While gadgets provide easier access to information, learning flexibility, and opportunities to strengthen digital literacy, their intensive use also creates challenges for character education and the internalization of national values. This paper aims to discuss the challenges of Indonesian education in balancing the use of gadgets with the development of national character in the digital era. Using a conceptual and discussion approach, the paper reviews relevant literature, previous studies, and national education policies related to character education, digital learning, gadget use, and the Pancasila Student Profile. The discussion highlights the ambivalent role of gadgets in education. Digital technology can support independent and effective learning, but unmanaged use may reduce direct social interaction and create challenges in developing discipline, empathy, responsibility, and social awareness. The paper argues that the main educational challenge is not whether gadgets should be used, but how digital technology can be integrated with character education and national values. Indonesian education therefore requires an adaptive approach that combines digital literacy, responsible technology use, educator role modelling, social interaction, and the strengthening of Pancasila values.

Character Education, Gadgets, Digital Era, National Character, Indonesian Education

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