Religious Education Research Articles

A reflection on a womanist theologian’s endeavour to dismantle whiteness, through creating the Religious Education module ‘Black Religion and Protest’

A reflection on a womanist theologian’s endeavour to dismantle whiteness, through creating the Religious Education module ‘Black Religion and Protest’

Exploring the Affordances and Propensities of Multimodality in Narrative Pedagogies through Multimodal Ethnography

This paper seeks to reflect on the propensities and advantages of multimodality in teaching and learning, and its rich exploration through multimodal research. It will also report and reflect upon the findings of a small-scale multimodal ethnographic study that was conducted over one scholastic year. This investigated whether, and how, the use of multimodal creative productions can facilitate adolescents’ search for meaning through the re-configuration and re-imagination of life experiences shared in a classroom context. The pedagogical context of this research consisted of RE (Religious Education), and MLE (Media Literacy Education) classrooms, enabling an exploration into a possible fruitful dialogue between these two curricular subjects. Another related aim of this paper is to investigate how a narrative-hermeneutic approach to learning can facilitate meaning-making when applied to and through multimodal production tasks in RE and MLE. The results indicate that through multimodality, made possible by the advancement of creative digital technologies, narrative pedagogies can become more effective. This transpires from the fact that multimodality expands the range of resources available for students to construct and share their narratives, as it integrates the auditory, visual, gestural, linguistic, and spatial modes, augmenting the overall narrative experience. Moreover, this study shows that multimodality can facilitate meaning-making by promoting and nurturing a pedagogy for creative expression, a pedagogy of empathy and compassion, a pedagogy of agency and authenticity, a pedagogy of vulnerability, and a pedagogy through the use of metaphor. The paper also makes specific recommendations on how a narrative-hermeneutical approach through multimodality can promote the specified pedagogies in the context of the mentioned curricular subjects.

Unlocking Success: Key Factors for International Mobility Program in Implementing the Merdeka Belajar-Kampus Merdeka Curriculum

This article is based on research conducted at nationally accredited State Islamic Higher Education Institutions (PTKIN) in Indonesia, which have already begun implementing the Merdeka Belajar-Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) curriculum. The informants serving as data sources consist of 15 students participating in the International Mobility Program (IMP). A qualitative case study gathered data from interviews, observations, and documentation. The research emphasizes that the determinants of IMP success in supporting the implementation of the MBKM curriculum consist of four aspects: 1) through the ability to adapt well to a new environment, students gain learning experiences outside the campus by adjusting and respecting cultural differences in the destination country; 2) through international language proficiency, students are increasingly trained to conduct high-quality research and communicate effectively creatively; 3) through their interest in challenges and adventures in foreign campuses, students confidently present in international forums; 4) through the transformation of a global perspective, students are motivated to pursue further studies abroad and intend to participate in international programs in the following years. Understanding and emphasizing these factors is crucial for optimizing the benefits derived from international mobility initiatives within the unique context of religious higher education institutions.

Peran Psikologi dalam Pendidikan Islam

This article discusses the role and application of psychology in Islamic education. The aim is to find out the extent of psychology's role in Islamic education, as well as its application in the Islamic education process. This research uses a literature review approach from several book sources, journal articles and websites. The research results show that psychology plays an active role as a means of bridging educators in knowing the character, attitudes, characteristics and habits of students, so that the learning process in education can run smoothly. All obstacles can be resolved precisely and quickly. Understanding the Islamic religion in a kaffah way is an important aspect that must be considered by all pillars of education, such as: school principals, educators, students, parents and all school residents. With a balance between Islamic religious knowledge, then combined with strengthening psychological knowledge, it will have various positive impacts on Islamic religious education it self.

STRATEGI PEMBELAJARAN PENDIDIKAN AGAMA ISLAM BERBASIS GAMIFIKASI UNTUK MENINGKATKAN MOTIVASI BELAJAR SISWA

Learning activities cannot be separated from the role of the teacher. The teacher's task is to manage learning in the classroom and use various methods to achieve the learning objectives that have been set. This cannot be separated from the learning model/method used. The aim of this research is to describe the supporting, inhibiting and supporting factors for assessing gamification learning models in Islamic religious education regarding the emotional aspects of students at Madrasah Ibtidaiyah Al-kholili, Probolinggo City. This research uses field research with a qualitative approach. The method used is descriptive research. The subjects of this research were curriculum directors, PAI teachers, and student representatives. Data collection techniques use observation, interviews and documentation. Based on the research results, it can be concluded that the evaluation of the gamification learning model of Islamic religious education on the emotional aspects of students at Al-kholili Islamic Middle School, Probolinggo City can increase student interest and motivation. it has been proven that you can. Children respond to learning, how to complete the tasks given, how to pay attention to the material presented, and the availability of several supporting factors, namely Wi-Fi, depending on possibilities, student interest, teacher motivation and available focus. Children need time to adjust due to inhibiting factors in the form of media and time constraints.

Inovasi Kurikulum PAI Berbasis Pembiasaan Khitobah untuk Meningkatkan Rasa Percaya Diri Siswa di MAN 2 Karanganyar

A curriculum innovation is a specific and recent idea, idea or action carried out in a curricular area. This innovation is designed to solve the problem of education. When there is a problem of the lack of self-confidence of the students of Madrasah Aliyah State 2 Karanganyar, then it is felt necessary to innovate the curriculum of Islamic Religious Education (PAI) by holding routine changes for students in turn. This method of research uses qualitative descriptive research that explains what happens in accordance with the facts on the ground. Data collection techniques are done through observation, documentation and interviews. The results of the research show that the innovation of the PAI curriculum based on the practice of chitobah runs well and has a positive impact on students. Chitobah is running on schedule, although there are some obstacles, but there can be solutions.

Philosophical Foundations in Training Traditional Religious Educators: Bridging Past and Present

Aim. Preparing teachers for future challenges involves more than just giving information— it is about forming individuals who can adapt to an evolving world. This paper aimed to examine Aly Zawiyah Jakarta, renowned for its traditional religious education, and explore how its values can offer insights into effective teacher training. Method. A qualitative approach to investigate the intersection of cultural, religious, and personal values with teacher development programs at Mahad Aly Zawiyah Jakarta was used in the study. Results. The study demonstrated that by adopting teaching techniques inspired by those used by Prophet Muhammad PBUH, educators do not only acquire knowledge but also discover themselves spiritually and morally. This then enables them guide forthcoming generations appreciating what these principles mean both for the individual person and the role of humanity on earth. Scientific Novelty. The contribution of this research was to emphasise the value of blending traditional practices with innovative approaches to enrich religious education. The practice of preserving age-old traditions while adapting them to contemporary needs is portrayed as a domain in which educators evolve to assume leadership roles in an ever-changing environment. Conclusion. In its influence on the future of education, it was determined in the research that the integration of traditional religious doctrines with modern pedagogical approaches fosters the capacity of educators to connect the past and present— thus, not compromising their readiness to address future challenges.

The Nature of Moral Realism vs. Anti-Realism and Its Implications for Moral Discourse and Practice

Purpose: The general objective of this study was to explore the nature of moral realism vs. anti-realism and its implications for moral discourse and practice. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the nature of moral realism vs. anti-realism and its implications for moral discourse and practice. Preliminary empirical review revealed that individuals' beliefs about moral realism vs. anti-realism significantly influenced their moral reasoning and behaviors, with proponents of moral realism exhibiting absolutist moral judgments while those endorsing anti-realism demonstrated greater moral flexibility. Cultural and ideological variations in these beliefs were evident, reflecting diverse societal norms and values. Longitudinal studies revealed the developmental origins of these beliefs, emphasizing the importance of early moral education. Overall, the study highlighted the complex interplay between philosophical perspectives on morality and real-world implications, advocating for informed and culturally sensitive approaches to moral discourse and practice. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Kohlberg's Stages of Moral Development, Social Identity theory and Cultural Relativism may be used to anchor future studies on the nature of moral realism vs. anti-realism. The study provided valuable recommendations for theory, practice, and policy. It contributed to theoretical advancements in moral philosophy by integrating empirical evidence with philosophical insights, thereby refining existing theories and generating new avenues for exploration. The findings had practical implications for educators, policymakers, and practitioners, emphasizing the importance of ethical education, interdisciplinary collaboration, and ethical leadership practices. Policy recommendations highlighted the need for contextually sensitive approaches to addressing ethical issues, while ethical practice emphasized fostering open dialogue and ethical reflexivity in professional settings. The study also identified future research directions, suggesting the importance of longitudinal and interdisciplinary studies to further advance our understanding of morality and ethics. Keywords: Moral Realism, Anti-Realism, Moral Discourse, Beliefs, Philosophy, Ethics, Interdisciplinary, Collaboration, Ethical Leadership, Professional Practice

Exploration of Course Ideological and Political Reform in Cultural and Art Courses Empowered by the Metaverse

Course ideological and political education, as an important part of moral education and talent cultivation in higher education, reflects the fundamental purpose of higher education in teaching and educating people. The ideological and political education in cultural and artistic courses in universities should adapt to the development of digital technology and innovate teaching methods, and combine the development of the metaverse and service design thinking to carry out ideological and political education reform. The article combines the background of the metaverse era, from classroom teaching to online teaching to practical teaching, to explore how to better utilize the metaverse to reform ideological and political education in cultural and artistic courses. By combining the metaverse context to enhance the effectiveness of ideological and political education in cultural and artistic courses, and by expanding the functions of the metaverse platform and designing teaching methods to comprehensively enhance students' comprehensive literacy, it promotes the reform of ideological and political education in higher education courses and serves the high-quality development process of national economic, social, and cultural construction.

Religious Knowledge: A New Dimensional Approach for Studying Religiosity’s Social Impact in Muslim Societies

Researchers frequently postulate a strong relationship between religiosity and social peace and stability. If one examines the construct of religion in sociological literature (e.g., doctrine, rituals, etc.), it appears that it is so diverse and multifaceted that a single measure of religiosity is inadequate. While quantification of religiosity is possible, social studies rely exclusively on single-item markers of religiousness (e.g., frequency of church attendance). Moreover, two of the dimensions of Glock's (1962) model - religious knowledge and the consequential dimension - have not been examined at all (Filsinger & Wilson, 1986). This paper’s objective is to draw attention to the “religious knowledge” dimension as an influential social factor within society by attempting to construct a peculiar definition to the sociology of Muslim societies. Besides, this paper aims at putting emphasis on the importance and the validity of “religious knowledge” scales and their ability to provide an overview about Muslim individuals’ religiosity. 

Digitalization of Religious (Islamic) Education

This research explores the impact of digital methods in religious studies on students' global and community engagement within a liberal arts education. The university's Religious Studies department pioneers digital practices to promote civic awareness, global integration, and student empowerment through interactive learning. Small-scale community projects foster global skills, enhance learning, and promote diversity appreciation. One such project, "Digital Methods to Raise Awareness of Domestic Violence & Social Justice," involves creating and disseminating digital messages promoting environmental cleanliness. Insights from interdisciplinary experts, including those from Forman Christian College University, refine these practices. The study aims to standardize effective digital methods for liberal arts education, fostering community-centered individuals and contributing to the digital humanities field. Through experiences at Forman Christian College University, it enriches discussions on integrating digital methods in liberal arts education, fostering future teaching innovations.

Implementasi Active Learning Dalam Pembelajaran PAI Di SMK Negeri Tegalwaru Purwakarta

This research examines the implementation of the active learning model in Islamic Religious Education at Tegalwaru State Vocational School, Purwakarta. The aim is to increase students' interest in learning, participation and achievement of learning outcomes through active involvement in the learning process. This research uses a qualitative approach with descriptive methods. Data was collected through interviews, observation and document review. The research results show that the implementation of the active learning model is carried out through three main stages: planning, implementation and assessment. In the planning stage, the teacher prepares a Learning Implementation Plan (RPP), which includes objectives, materials, activity steps and appraisal. At the implementation stage, teachers apply active learning techniques such as group discussions, debates, games and presentations to increase student participation and interest in learning. Meanwhile, the assessment stage is carried out by considering cognitive, affective and psychomotor aspects and using Minimum Completeness Criteria (KKM) as the graduation standard. The active learning model has proven to be effective in creating an interactive, fun learning environment and encouraging students to be more proactive, creative and not quickly bored in the learning process. The school also pays special attention to extracurricular activities such as recitation and billing assignments to deepen students' understanding of Islamic Religious Education. This research contributes to efforts to improve the quality of Islamic religious education in Indonesia

Religious Literacy Reinforcement-Based Tolerance Education: A Didactic Reflection Method on Islamic Religious Education Through Action Research

Efforts to foster an attitude of religious tolerance in students within an educational setting relies on the reinforcement of literacy skills. This emphasis is grounded in the recognition that a genuine appreciation and respect for religious diversity are more likely to thrive within a literate society. Therefore, this research sets out to explore strategies for enhancing literacy skills through the prism of Islamic religious education (PAI, Pendidikan Agama Islam) course with the specific goal of fostering a climate of tolerance. Action Research was adopted as the research design, involving a sequential through three distinct phases: pre-action analysis, action implementation and post-action analysis. This research was conducted in a university in West Java by involving 120 participants, evenly distributed between 60 male and 60 female students. The outcome of this research delineates a structured framework comprising six pivotal stages of learning, in the acronym TADBIR. This framework serves as a strategic blueprint for religious literacy initiatives that employ a profound influence on the cultivation of religious tolerance. The TADBIR framework encompasses the following steps: Teaching the Tolerance Value, Analyzing Tolerance Verses, Discovering Solutions, Behavioring, Influencing and Reflection. The implementation of this TADBIR framework yielded a notable increase in religious tolerance toward a positive direction. This research concludes the pedagogical approach encapsulated in the TADBIR acronym is effective in enhancing religious tolerance among students with effectiveness score of 81.56%. The main contribution of this paper is how to map students' religious tolerance attitudes. Through an action research approach, this research tries to pioneer practical steps that can guide educational practitioners in increasing attitudes of religious tolerance through strengthening religious literacy. 

Spiritual well-being and associated factor among adult cancer patients in Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Oncology Center, Hawassa, Ethiopia

BackgroundSpiritual well-being has been shown to boost resistance to mental health crises in cancer patients during the diagnosis and treatment process, but there is a paucity of studies about spirituality in cancer patients, which may make it difficult for healthcare clinicians to assess spirituality and provide spiritual care.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to assess the level of spiritual well-being and associated factors among cancer patients in HUCSH Oncology Center in 2022.Methods and materialsAn institution-based cross-sectional study was done from May 30 to June 30, 2022 among 267 cancer patients, and the respondents were selected by a simple random sampling technique. Data was collected by using standardized interviewer-administered questionnaires (FACIT sp12). Data was entered using Epi data version 4.6, and analysis was carried out by using Statistical Package for Social Science version 25. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression was conducted to determine the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. The strength of association was tested by using p-value at 95% CI. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Institutional Review Board of Hawassa University College of Medicine and Health Science. During data collection, the purpose of the study was clearly explained to the patients, and consent was obtained.ResultA total of 267 cancer patients were included in the study. There was 100% response rate. Majority of the patients (80.5%) were in a poor spiritual well-being state. Mental distress (AOR = 0.246; 95% CI: 0.114–0.531) and religious education (AOR = 1.288; 95% CI: 1.438–9.142) were factors significantly associated with spiritual well-being among cancer patients.Conclusion and recommendationThis study showed that more than two-thirds of patients had poor spiritual well-being. Mental distress and religious education were factors associated with spiritual well-being. Attention should be given by nurses of the center for spiritual well-being assessment in clinical practices favoring holistic care in the center.

Why do we need to employ exemplars in moral education? Insights from recent advances in research on artificial intelligence

ABSTRACT In this paper, I examine why moral exemplars are useful and even necessary in moral education despite several critiques. To support my point, I review recent AI research demonstrating that exemplar-based learning is superior to rule-based learning in model performance in training neural networks, such as large language models. I particularly focus on why education aiming at promoting the development of multifaceted moral functioning can be done effectively by using exemplars, which is like exemplar-based learning in AI model training. Furthermore, I discuss the potential limitations and issues related to exemplar-applied moral education with findings from recent AI research raising concerns about model biases and toxic outcomes. I propose ways to address the concerns regarding employing moral exemplars as well. As remedies, I suggest that autonomy-supporting deliberative and reflective learning should be utilized. Furthermore, based on the discussion, I examine how macroscopic socio-cultural aspects influence the effectiveness of exemplar-applied education.

Dormitory-Based Intensive Religious Education in Jakarta

Dormitory-based intensive religious education is an alternative educational approach applied in religious schools or Islamic boarding schools. This research aims to describe intensive dormitory-based religious education in Jakarta with a case study at the Al Hamid Cilangkap Islamic Boarding School. This research uses a descriptive qualitative approach. Data collection was carried out through observation, interviews and document study. The results of the research show that intensive religious education at the Al Hamid Islamic Boarding School introduces an integrated education system between Islamic boarding schools and formal schools, requiring students to live in dormitories. There are two types of learning, namely in formal schools and additional learning in dormitories which focuses on deepening religious material. Apart from that, positive habits and self-development of students are also implemented. This intensive religious education has succeeded in forming the character of the students, motivating them to learn, and producing many achievements both academic and non-academic. In conclusion, dormitory-based intensive religious education is effective in building character, increasing learning motivation, and developing the potential of students.

ПРОФЕСІЙНА ПІДГОТОВКА ВЧИТЕЛЯ ПОЧАТКОВИХ КЛАСІВ ДО ВИХОВНОЇ РОБОТИ В НОВІЙ УКРАЇНСЬКІЙ ШКОЛИ

The article based on a holistic analysis of the theory and practice of professional education, describes the theoretical and methodological principles of training perspective primary school teachers to manage and implement educational work with primary school pupils in the New Ukrainian School. It has been established that in the context of the modernisation of the system of higher pedagogical education in Ukraine, there are significant shifts in the directions, content, and essence of primary school teacher training. The author proves that in the process of studying professional disciplines by future primary school teachers in a higher pedagogical education institution, there is an effective formation and development of their educational competence (professional thinking, emotional intelligence, creative potential, assimilation of educational values and value orientations, experience of social adaptation and socialisation of a growing personality to the challenges and threats of modern Ukrainian society). The elements of such competence are as follows: the knowledge, skills, and practical abilities, experience in designing effective areas of childhood education, communication skills, and abilities to implement, analyse and predict the effectiveness of pedagogical interaction of all participants in the educational process in primary school based on child-centredness, cooperation, co-creation, formed autonomy and responsibility by developing pedagogical thinking, creative activity, and independent improvement of the level of organisation of the educational process in primary school. The article defines and describes the current leading principles of organising and conducting professional training of perspective primary school teachers in the implementation of the strategy of creating an educational process in primary school. There has been highlighted and defined the essence of the basic requirements concerning the content of professional training of perspective primary school teachers for the organisation of educational work in the New Ukrainian School.

Adolescent Mental Health Therapy through the Application of Islamic Religious Education

The aim of this research is to explore mental health therapy through aspects of religious life. This research is included in the type of descriptive qualitative research. Data collection was carried out through observation, interviews and document analysis. The research subjects involved the school principal, Islamic Religious Education (PAI) teacher, Guidance Counseling (BK) teacher, and two students. The data analysis techniques used include data reduction, data presentation and verification. Based on research, it is known that religious life can be a mental health therapy for students at SMK N 38 Jakarta. Religious activities carried out at the school include dhuha prayers, dhuhur prayers in congregation and reading yasin. From the results of interviews with students, the author found that participating in religious activities carried out by the school provided comfort to the souls of students at SMK N 38 Jakarta.

Redefining Religious Moderation Education for Urban Muslim Youth

Religious moderation has been a government policy since 2015, aimed at countering radicalism and extremism. However, the hierarchical implementation of the program has led to the labeling of "moderate" and "conservative", and the policy's understanding remains unclear among the community, especially the middle class and youth. Despite the government's campaign, intolerance persists. This research aims to review the religious moderation policy and explore how urban Muslim youths could contribute to religious moderation education. The method involves in-depth interviews with urban Muslim youths in Manado and Semarang and critical analysis of relevant documents. The findings suggest that urban Muslim youths prioritize religious moderation through intensive dialogue and gatherings. Current educational practices should incorporate these informal approaches to be more effective. The inclusion of urban Muslim youths in religious moderation education appears to be a promising way to encourage religious moderation in Indonesia. This highlights the need for religious moderation implementation to be responsive to public aspirations.    

Improving the Quality of Children's Faith Formation through Catechesis for First Communion Preparation in the Parish with a Holistic Approach

This study aims to evaluate and improve the quality of children's faith formation through catechesis preparation for First Communion in the Parish. The research method is descriptive quantitative, with data collected using surveys through Google Forms. The study population consists of parents or guardians of children preparing for First Communion, with a sample of 23 respondents. Data analysis uses descriptive statistics. The findings indicate that catechesis activities and children's experiences preparing for First Communion significantly impact the quality of children's faith formation. Most respondents reported positive experiences and perceived improvements in their children's understanding and practice of the Catholic faith. However, factors inhibiting optimal faith formation were also identified, particularly the need for increased parental involvement. The study recommends encouraging parental participation, providing necessary resources and guidance for active engagement in children's religious education. To enhance children's faith formation, collaboration between parents, churches, and catechists is recommended, along with establishing effective communication channels between these stakeholders.