Learning Methods for Islamic Religious Education in Elementary Schools

Abstract

Islamic Religious Education (IRE) plays a crucial role in shaping students' moral and religious values at the elementary school level. This study analyzes the effectiveness of different teaching methods in IRE, focusing on student engagement, comprehension, and internalization of Islamic teachings. A qualitative research approach was employed, utilizing literature review, classroom observations, and interviews with teachers to examine the impact of various instructional strategies. The findings indicate that traditional lecture methods, while commonly used, tend to result in passive learning, limiting students' ability to apply religious principles in daily life. In contrast, interactive methods such as discussion, project-based learning, and demonstrations significantly enhance student participation and understanding. However, challenges such as limited resources, time constraints, and inadequate teacher training hinder the implementation of innovative teaching techniques.

The study suggests that a balanced approach integrating traditional and interactive teaching methods is necessary for effective IRE instruction. Teachers should receive professional development training to improve pedagogical strategies, and educational policymakers should consider curriculum reforms to support diverse instructional approaches. Future research should investigate the long-term impact of these methods on students’ moral and religious development. The table below presents a summary of the effectiveness of different teaching methods based on student engagement and teacher-perceived effectiveness.