Southeast Asian Journal of Islamic Education

Empowering Early Childhood Educators: Using Islamic Heroes to Instill Heroic Values in Early Childhood

Nur Fatwikiningsih — 2024-11-11

Few studies have investigated educators' roles in instilling heroic values in early childhood through Islamic heroes. Educators play a crucial role in shaping early childhood’s understanding of heroism, primarily through Islamic heroes, because early childhood commonly has misconceptions about heroes. They often struggle to articulate these ideas and frequently associate heroism with fictional characters from storybooks, movies, or fairy tales. The purpose of this research is to explore the role of educators in professional development in learning and teaching early childhood, which is connected with moral lessons about heroic values using Islamic heroes. This study used a qualitative method with interviews and documentation. Participants were seven early childhood educators from seven different schools. The data analysis technique used Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis. The results show that educators often have misconceptions about the meaning of heroes and heroism, particularly regarding Islamic heroes. The selection of teaching materials indicates limitations in educators' ability to explore Islamic heroes and appreciate the richness of Islamic heroism. The material presented emphasizes aspects of religious practice and sainthood rather than describing and instilling heroic values. The implementation strategy includes lesson plans and teaching materials (selecting Islamic figures, the content of narratives, and Islamic hero's storytelling techniques) focusing more on history, religiosity, and worship aspects of Wali Songo and Prophets of Islam. Educators should create learning activities with storytelling according to the age of children; new concepts should be introduced with brief explanations, a variety of media should be used to visualize stories, and storytelling should keep children focused.

Implementation of Snakes and Ladders Game to Stimulate Early Childhood Numeracy Development

Lilia Nurramadani — 2024-11-12

One type of traditional game is the Snakes and Ladders game, which can significantly impact early childhood numeracy development. This research aimed to explore the implications of the Snakes and Ladders game in stimulating numeracy skills in preschool children. The type of research was descriptive qualitative with the research site at RA Al-Fattah Jangga Baru, and the subjects in this study were group B children, totaling 17 children. Data collection was done through observation, interviews, and documentation. The data analysis was conducted through data reduction, data display, and conclusion formulation. This study identified how elements of the Snakes and Ladders game, such as number recognition, step counting, and understanding the concept of sequence, can support the development of children's basic maths skills. The results proved that the Snakes and Ladders game not only teaches numbers and sequences but also develops cognitive skills such as planning and problem-solving, enhancing the intellectual development of children. In addition, the social interactions during the game enrich children's learning experience, improve communication skills, and strengthen the understanding of numerical concepts. The results suggest that the Snakes and Ladders game can improve children's numeracy skills and that the game can also be powerfully incorporated into the early childhood education curriculum as a tool that makes maths more fun and interactive.

Use of Social Media in Schools and Madrasas: A Systematic Review of Social Studies Learning Innovations

Bima Fandi Asy'arie — 2024-12-06

This study aims to identify and analyze the benefits and negative impacts of using social media (TikTok, YouTube, WhatsApp) as an innovation in Social Science learning in schools and madrasas. This research used a systematic literature review (SLR) type, with a qualitative approach. Research period focused on years (2020-2024). Database was obtained from “Google Scholar” and “ScienceDirect”. Then, we conducted a bibliometric analysis to understand the bibliographic landscape with “VOSviever”. To obtain the credibility of the data as the main finding of 35 article documents, we used the “Publish or Perish”. The findings include: First, the use of social media in learning can create effective learning situations, provide quick access, allow for discussions between teachers and students online. With teacher guidance, social media can enrich the learning experience and increase student engagement in learning. Second, that the use of social media in learning might have negative effects such as internet connection disruptions that affect learning, indications of addiction to negative content, disruption of student’s concentration, reduced direct interaction, and problems such as privacy and security. The integration of digital platforms in learning can increase student motivation, expand access to information, and encourage collaboration. However, there is a need for teacher training on digital literacy to ensure wise use, and reduce the risk of spreading irrelevant information. This research encourages the curriculum development that accommodates the planned use of social media, so that students not only become consumers of information, but also creators of critical and creative content.

Islam and Indonesian Political Literacy: Religious Approach to Political Education in Sambas Regency

Mualimin Mualimin — 2024-12-09

This article aims to analyze political education using a religious approach conducted by election organizers in Sambas Regency. This study is a qualitative research with a phenomenological approach, with the locus of the study is the General Election Commission (KPU) and the General Election Supervisory Agency (Bawaslu) of Sambas Regency. Data was collected from March to June 2022 through participative observation and in-depth interviews. The informants in this study amounted to six people. The data obtained were then analyzed using the Miles and Huberman model interactive qualitative analysis technique, namely data reduction, data display, and conclusion. Data analysis shows that using a religious approach in political education is inseparable from the socio-religious background of the Sambas Regency society, which is mostly Malay, where Islam plays a significant role in the life of the Sambas Malay people. Implementing political education is by engaging religious institutions in various political education programs. The engagement of religious institutions is based on the argument that they are opinion leaders of Muslims and have a better understanding of the proper religious narratives in explaining elections and politics to the religious society. Political education with a religious approach is also carried out by utilizing Muslim religious celebrations and ceremonies to socialize politics and elections in society. Based on these findings, the conclusion is that religion not only plays a role in religiosity and spiritual life but is also consumed and commodified as a tool to enhance a society's political understanding and knowledge.

Keywords: Religious Approach, Political literacy, Political Education, Sambas Regency, Malay

The Integrated Learning Model in Islamic Religious Education in ‎Junior High School

Elsa Al Khansa — 2024-12-12

The integrated learning model in Islamic Religious Education at the junior high ‎school level seeks ‎to improve students' understanding of religious values and ‎engagement in learning‎. This study examines the application of the ‎integrated learning model in Islamic Religious Education at the junior high school ‎level, focusing on its impact on students' understanding of religious values and ‎engagement in the learning process. This study was conducted at Al Azhar 1 Junior ‎High School in Bandar Lampung. A descriptive qualitative approach was employed ‎to explore the implementation of the integrated learning model. Data were ‎collected through semi-structured interviews, observations, and document ‎analysis. The participants included teachers, students, the school principal, and the ‎vice principal. Analysis followed Miles and Huberman's ‎interactive ‎model, with data validity ensured through triangulation, offering an objective view ‎of ‎the model's effect on student engagement and understanding. Results showed that the integrated learning model effectively connects religious values with students' real-life contexts, enhancing their understanding and participation. Students became more active in discussions and felt motivated to apply religious values in their daily lives, mainly through themes like honesty, discipline, and cooperation presented in relatable scenarios. The study implies that the integrated learning model in Islamic Religious Education increases student engagement and supports positive character development. These findings provide valuable insights for designing a more engaging and impactful curriculum that aligns with the goals of Islamic Religious Education.

Implementation of Islamic Religious Education Using Fun Learning at Primary Schools

Diah Sartika — 2024-12-16

Fun learning aims to create a fun and interactive learning atmosphere so students are more motivated and actively involved in the learning process. This study aims to examine the implementation of Islamic Religious Education (PAI) learning using the fun learning method and the ability of teachers to apply the proper learning method in delivering learning in public elementary schools. This study used a qualitative method with a descriptive-analytical approach. Research data were obtained from two PAI teachers and three students through interviews, observations, and documentation as primary data sources. The results of the study indicate that the implementation of Islamic Religious Education (PAI) learning with the fun learning method in public elementary schools is carried out with various strategies applied, namely the use of interactive learning media, educational games, direct practice, group activities, stories, dramas, outdoor activities, awards and motivation and integration of Islamic values in daily activities. The ability of teachers to apply the proper learning method in delivering learning is influenced by several factors: understanding student characteristics, mastery of learning materials, creativity and innovation in learning, the ability to use educational technology, flexibility in using various methods, classroom management skills, evaluation skills and reflection and involvement in professional development. The implications of this research show that fun learning has great potential to improve the quality of Islamic Religious Education learning in elementary schools.

A Holistic Approach to Character Education: Integration of Governance, Islamic Values, and School Culture

Salsabilla Martina Ayu — 2024-12-17

This study investigates a comprehensive approach to strengthening character education by integrating governance, Islamic values, and school culture in primary education. Conducted over one year in nine public elementary schools in West Bandung Regency, West Java, Indonesia, this study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative descriptive and descriptive quantitative designs. Qualitative data were collected through interviews, observations, and document analysis, while quantitative data were obtained via questionnaires to evaluate the implementation of governance programs in character education. The study involved nine principals and 135 teachers as participants, with students observed during program implementation. Data analysis was conducted using thematic analysis for qualitative data, identifying recurring themes and patterns related to governance and school culture. Descriptive statistics, including scoring and average calculations, were used to assess the implementation of governance programs for quantitative data. The findings reveal that well-structured governance, characterized by clear policies and coherent program designs, is pivotal in fostering a school culture conducive to character development. The integration of Islamic values, including Shiddiq (truthfulness), Amanah (trustworthiness), Tabligh (effective communication), and Fathonah (wisdom), significantly enhances these efforts. Active community engagement and continuous evaluation were also identified as critical factors. This study underscores the necessity of a holistic governance framework that involves all stakeholders, providing actionable insights to enhance character education in elementary schools and develop students who excel academically while upholding strong moral integrity.

Student Tolerance Attitudes in Islamic Boarding Schools

Deden Hilmansah — 2024-12-18

This study aims to describe the tolerance attitudes of students in Islamic boarding schools, focusing on three aspects: peace, respect for differences and individuals, and awareness. The research method is descriptive quantitative, utilizing a Likert scale questionnaire for data collection. Results indicate that 48% of students exhibit very high tolerance in the peace aspect, while 52% show high tolerance. Regarding respect for differences and individuals, 55% of students demonstrate very high tolerance and 45% show high tolerance. In the awareness aspect, 59% of students display very high tolerance, and 41% show high tolerance. Overall, 60% of students have a very high tolerance attitude, and 40% show a high tolerance attitude. These findings highlight that Islamic boarding schools foster an environment conducive to developing academically proficient students with strong religious and tolerant attitudes. The implication is that Islamic boarding schools play a vital role in shaping students who are not only academically capable but also possess strong religious and tolerant attitudes. This suggests that an educational approach integrating Islamic spiritual values with general knowledge can be an effective model for fostering a more inclusive and socially aware generation. Furthermore, this model demonstrates the potential of education to serve as a bridge for understanding and respecting cultural and religious diversity, equipping students with the skills and values needed to contribute positively to a pluralistic society.