Exploring Teachers’ Strategies in Strengthening Reading and Writing Literacy to Enhance Students’ Creative Writing Skills at Madrasah Ibtidaiyah

Elementary education plays a pivotal role in shaping students’ cognitive, affective, and psychomotor development. Among the essential 21st-century skills, numeracy literacy is crucial for enabling students to interpret and utilize quantitative information in real-life contexts. Despite its importance, international assessments such as PISA indicate that Indonesian students’ numeracy skills remain low. This study aims to explore the role of teachers as facilitators in promoting numeracy literacy through mathematics instruction in lower elementary grades (grades I–III) at Madrasah Ibtidaiyah. Employing a qualitative descriptive approach, data were collected through classroom observations, in-depth interviews, and document analysis at MIS Wonoyoso, involving three teachers with over three years of experience. The findings reveal that although lesson planning aligns with the curriculum, it remains focused on procedural skills and lacks contextual and conceptual depth needed for numeracy development. Teachers demonstrated limited understanding of numeracy as a broader cognitive ability beyond basic arithmetic. Challenges identified include time constraints, lack of resources, and limited professional training. The study concludes that to effectively function as facilitators of numeracy literacy, teachers need continuous professional development, contextual teaching strategies, and collaborative platforms to reflect on and enhance numeracy-focused instruction. Strengthening these areas is essential for fostering students' logical reasoning and problem-solving abilities from early education.

The aim of this research is to see how Islamic Religious Education (PAI) teachers use various approaches to increase students' professionalism and desire to study at Madrasah Ibtidaiyah. PAI teachers have an important role in shaping students' character through implementing innovative learning approaches based on Islamic values. This research collects data from various relevant literature sources; Data analysis methods are used to study various learning approaches in Islamic education. The research results show that PAI teachers use various learning approaches, including role playing, question and answer, lectures, and project and problembased learning approaches. This method has proven effective in increasing teacher professionalism and fostering students' desire to learn. In addition, methods that suit students' needs, a fun learning environment, and rewards can strengthen students' desire to learn. This research helps improve the quality of learning at Madrasah Ibtidaiyah and helps PAI teachers create better and more meaningful learning strategies.

This study aims to analyse the strategy employed in cultivating religious character through the Al-Qur'an Education Garden program. The research was conducted at Madrasah Ibtidaiyah (MI) Tholabuddin Gandusari Blitar. Utilizing a qualitative approach, this research systematically and accurately reports the characteristics of the population and the locality of MI Tholabuddin Gandusari Blitar. The research methodology involved the direct collection of data from the field through observation guidelines, interviews, and document analysis. Primary data were sourced from the madrasah head, curriculum coordinator, Al-Qur'an Education Garden (TPQ) coordinator, TPQ teachers, and students, while secondary data encompassed journals, books, archival sources, and official documents. Data analysis was conducted through the process of data reduction, data presentation, and summarization of findings. The outcomes of the study spotlighted the TPQ program as an integral part of shaping students' religious character at MI Tholabuddin Gandusari Blitar. The instructional materials focus not solely on formal education, but also on fostering student engagement in interactive activities and the application of religious values in their daily lives. This study revealed that: 1) The teacher's role as an instructor and facilitator significantly influences character development, particularly their capacity to link religious values with practical everyday application. 2) The amalgamation of formal and informal learning within TPQ leads to a comprehensive comprehension of religious values within the modern context. 3) Pedagogical methods, such as the tartila method, integration of religious values, a variety of teaching techniques, and assessment, play a pivotal role in shaping students' religious character. 4) The non-academic approach through role modelling and habituation outside formal learning hours also helps shape students' religious character. In essence, an all-encompassing approach encompassing learning materials, teacher roles, integration of religious values, pedagogical methods, and non-academic character cultivation profoundly and enduringly influences the development of students' religious character. This is vividly illustrated by the Al-Qur'an Education Garden Program at MI Tholabuddin Gandusari Blitar.

Student disciplinary violations have become a significant educational challenge, particularly in rapid technological advancement and social change. This study aims to identify adaptive strategies that can be implemented to address student disciplinary violations and to analyse relevant challenges and solutions from the perspective of Islamic Religious Education. This research employs a literature review method, a research approach that aims to produce written work based on the analysis of existing literature. The findings indicate that strategies involving restorative approaches, character strengthening based on Islamic values, and the wise use of technology in discipline management are more effective than conventional, repressive methods. Principles in Islamic education, such as spiritual development (tarbiyah ruhiyah), moral cultivation (akhlaq), and exemplary behaviour (uswah hasanah), play a significant role in shaping students' spiritual and moral awareness. The main challenges include the lack of parental involvement, the influence of social media, and limited school resources. Proposed solutions include enhancing collaboration between schools, parents, and communities and using technology to support the development of students' Islamic character. By implementing appropriate adaptive strategies grounded in Islamic values, student disciplinary violations can be minimised, creating a more conducive and harmonious learning environment.

This study explores the moral development strategies implemented at SD Muhammadiyah Suro to foster anti-bullying attitudes among elementary students. Bullying remains a serious concern in school environments, with detrimental impacts on children's physical, psychological, and social well-being. To mitigate this issue, schools are required to adopt comprehensive moral education approaches that nurture empathy, respect, and prosocial behavior. This research employed a qualitative approach using a case study method. Primary data were obtained through in-depth interviews with the school principal, teachers, and selected students, as well as classroom observations. Secondary data were collected through document analysis of school policies and programs related to moral development. The findings reveal that the school integrates several key strategies: Islamic-based character education, positive behavior habituation, teacher modeling, and restorative conflict resolution practices. These efforts are also supported by extracurricular activities that promote empathy and collaboration among students. The study concludes that moral development strategies grounded in religious and character values, when consistently applied and supported by the involvement of educators, parents, and the broader school community, can cultivate a safe, respectful, and inclusive school environment. Such strategies play a crucial role in shaping students’ moral awareness, fostering resilience, and promoting social responsibility.

Academic self-efficacy plays a critical role in shaping students' academic performance and resilience. This study aims to compare the academic self-efficacy of high school students in Indonesia and Egypt, focusing on how contextual factors such as education systems and cultural norms influence this psychological construct. A quantitative cross-country comparative method was employed, involving 100 students (50 from Yogyakarta, Indonesia, and 50 from Cairo, Egypt) selected using proportional stratified random sampling. Data were collected using the Academic Self-Efficacy Scale, validated for cross-cultural contexts, and analyzed using independent sample t-tests, MANOVA, and SEM techniques.The results reveal that Indonesian students scored significantly higher across all dimensions of academic self-efficacy. For instance, the "Confidence in Mastery" dimension scored 75.34 for Indonesian students compared to 68.12 for Egyptian students (p < 0.01). In the "Academic Resilience" dimension, Indonesian students scored 69.88 versus 62.33 for their Egyptian counterparts (p < 0.01). Gender, socioeconomic status, and prior academic achievement emerged as significant demographic moderators. The study concludes that Indonesian students benefit from a supportive educational environment that fosters intellectual independence and resilience. These findings underscore the importance of culturally sensitive educational policies and interventions in enhancing students’ psychological well-being and academic success.

This study is motivated by the limited research on the implementation of experiential-based Islamic character education in Madrasah Ibtidaiyah (MI), despite its strategic role in shaping students’ moral and spiritual values, particularly in the digital era. The primary aim of this study is to describe the implementation of the Collaborative Ramadan Pesantren program as a strategy to strengthen Islamic character, analyze the internalization process of the values of honesty, responsibility, and social awareness, and identify behavioral changes among students after participating in the program. A descriptive qualitative method was employed using a Participatory Action Research (PAR) approach, involving 60 fourth- to sixth-grade students of MI Ma’arif Al Ma’shum Blora and 8 PGMI students from IAIKU Blora, selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through participatory observation, informal interviews, and documentation, and analyzed through data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings show that character reinforcement was carried out in three stages: collaborative planning, a three-day thematic activity based on direct experience, and evaluation and reflection aimed at fostering positive behavioral change. These results affirm the effectiveness of experiential and contextual character education. In conclusion, the collaborative and applicative approach proved effective in instilling Islamic values in elementary school students. The implications of this study include theoretical contributions to the development of Islamic character education and practical recommendations for madrasahs and higher education institutions in designing more structured and sustainable programs.

Education is the main pillar in the development of quality human resources, especially in developing countries like Indonesia. Madrasah Ibtidaiyah (MI) as a basic education institution has an important role in shaping students' character, knowledge and skills at an early age. However, the challenges faced in education in MI are often related to less innovative teaching methods, which have an impact on students' low learning motivation and academic results. The constructivist approach, which emphasizes the active role of students in the learning process, has been proven effective in improving the quality of learning. However, its application in teacher education in MI is still limited. This study aims to explore the application of the constructivist approach in teacher education in MI and its implications for learning quality. By applying this approach, it is expected that prospective teachers can develop better pedagogical skills, understand the different learning styles of students, and meet the demands of a curriculum that emphasizes 21st century skills. The research also highlights the importance of creating an inclusive learning environment where all students can actively participate. The results of the study are expected to contribute significantly to the development of education in Indonesia, particularly in the context of basic education, as well as providing insights into the integration of constructivist approaches in the teacher education curriculum at Madrasah Ibtidaiyah.

Character education plays a crucial role in shaping students' Indonesian learning skills. This study adopts a qualitative approach with a descriptive method to explore the relationship between character education and Indonesian learning outcomes among grade X students in secondary school. Data collection tools include classroom observation Character education plays a crucial role in shaping students' Indonesian learning skills. This study adopts a qualitative approach with a descriptive method to explore the relationship between character education and Indonesian learning outcomes among grade X students in secondary school. Data collection tools include classroom observation Character education plays a crucial role in shaping students' Indonesian learning skills. This study adopts a qualitative approach with a descriptive method to explore the relationship between character education and Indonesian learning outcomes among grade X students in secondary school. Data collection tools include classroom observation

Education based on Islamic values ​​has an important role in shaping students' character based on religious principles. This research aims to analyze the implementation of educational management based on Islamic values ​​and its influence on the formation of student character at Madrasah Ibtidaiyah Tarbiyatul Athfal. This research uses a qualitative approach with a case study method. Data was collected through in-depth interviews with school principals, teachers and students as well as observations of school activities, which were then analyzed thematically. The research results show that the implementation of educational management based on Islamic values ​​at Madrasah Ibtidaiyah Tarbiyatul Athfal plays a significant role in forming student character. Learning that integrates Islamic values ​​such as honesty, discipline and responsibility has succeeded in encouraging students to be more active and responsible in teaching and learning activities and in everyday life. Religious programs, such as congregational prayers and Islamic studies, are an important part of supporting student character formation. The implication of this research is the need for an educational management model based on Islamic values ​​to support the formation of better student character. In this way, madrasas can create an environment that supports not only academic development, but also strong moral character.

Islamic Religious Education (PAI) plays a pivotal role in shaping students' Islamic character as a foundation for ethical and moral behavior aligned with Islamic values. This study aims to explore strategies for strengthening the PAI curriculum to foster Islamic character among students. A qualitative approach is employed, utilizing literature reviews, observations, and case studies to identify effective strategies. The findings highlight five key strategies: (1) integrating Islamic values into learning materials in Islamic Religious Education and Civic Education subjects; (2) habituating Islamic character values through daily school activities; (3) empowering extracurricular activities as a medium for internalizing Islamic principles; (4) establishing an Islamic school environment through exemplary behavior of teachers and school staff; and (5) monitoring and guiding students' behavior to ensure character development. These strategies are found to significantly enhance the formation of students' Islamic character, enabling them to navigate the challenges of globalization without compromising their moral identity. This research provides practical insights for educators and policymakers in designing and implementing an effective PAI curriculum.

The development of students’ interest in knowledge is a crucial aspect of modern education. While traditional classroom instruction plays a significant role in shaping students’ cognitive abilities, extracurricular activities offer additional opportunities to foster curiosity and a passion for learning. This study explores how extracurricular educational activities enhance students’ interest in acquiring knowledge. By analyzing various extracurricular programs, their implementation, and their effects on students' academic engagement, the study provides insights into effective strategies for educators. The results suggest that extracurricular activities not only supplement academic learning but also cultivate a deeper appreciation for knowledge, thus contributing to students’ overall intellectual and personal development.

This study aims to explore the formation of students’ religious character through religious extracurricular activities at SD Islam Plus Darus Salaam Pondok Jaya. The background of this research is based on the importance of character education in schools, particularly religious character as a fundamental aspect in shaping morally upright students. This research employs a qualitative approach with a case study method. Data were collected through observation, interviews with the principal, teachers, and students, as well as documentation of activities. The results indicate that the development of students' religious character is carried out through the synergy between daily religious routines and extracurricular activities. Activities such as congregational Dhuha prayer, group prayers, Qur’an reading and writing (BTQ), Qur’an recitation improvement (Tahsin), and the commemoration of Islamic holidays serve as effective means of instilling Islamic values in students. Furthermore, the success of this program is supported by the principal's commitment, active teacher involvement, and adequate facilities and infrastructure. Although challenges such as students’ lack of awareness and diverse family backgrounds exist, the school continuously promotes routine practice, provides guidance, and fosters cooperation with parents to address these issues. In conclusion, religious extracurricular activities at SD Islam Plus Darus Salaam play a significant role in shaping students’ religious character in a systematic and sustainable manner.

This study investigates the impact of social media on tourism marketing behavior among international students in Indonesia. Employing a descriptive research method utilizing a qualitative approach, in some groups it was conducted with international students to explore their travel experiences and the influence of social media on their destination choices. The findings reveal that social media plays a significant role in shaping students' travel decisions, with a particular emphasis on the importance of visual platforms like Instagram and YouTube and their specific interests in how and where to visit with the help of these platforms. This research contributes to the existing literature on the role of social media in tourism marketing and provides insights into the preferences and behaviors of international students, a key demographic in the tourism industry. The discussion covers the range of interests that students have in artificial, cultural, and natural tourism as well as more niche types including MICE, health, and information tourism. Notably, participants stressed the need for thorough travel information, especially about lodging, meals, transportation, and guided tours information that is mostly found online. The study emphasizes how social media use and the diverse range of tourist experiences that foreign students in Indonesia are looking for are intricately related. Overall, this investigation clarifies the mutually beneficial relationship between social media dynamics and traveller behaviours, revealing information that is essential for academics and industry participants to comprehend in order to fully utilize digital platforms in modern tourism.

Globalization has had a significant impact, both positive and negative, on Indonesian society, especially in the moral and mental aspects of the younger generation. Phenomena such as declining moral values, deviant behavior, and mental problems are challenges that need to be addressed through effective character education. This study aims to analyze the role of Islamic character education through extracurricular activities in strengthening the mental and moral aspects of students at MI Hidayatul Mukhlisin. The method used in this research is a qualitative approach with a case study method. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and document analysis related to the implementation of extracurricular activities based on Islamic character education at the school. The results showed that extracurricular activities such as scouts and Islamic values-based activities play a significant role in shaping students' characters. Islamic character education through these activities succeeds in: (1) improve students' morality and ethics, (2) strengthen spiritual and social aspects, (3) form Islamic personalities, and (4) build mental resilience in facing various life challenges. The implication of this research confirms the importance of integrating Islamic values in extracurricular activities as a strategy to form a young generation that is noble, has strong morals, and is able to adapt to the demands of globalization. Recommendations are given to schools to improve the planning and implementation of character-based activities and to extend this research to other school contexts for more generalizable results.