Abstract:Schools are positioned as strategic social spaces that play a crucial role in shaping students’ character and social awareness amid the growing complexity of educational challenges in the era of globalization, digitalization,…
zation, and shifting social values. An educational orientation that continues to prioritize academic achievement has generated serious issues, including the weakening of character, low levels of empathy, and declining social concern among students. The research problem addressed in this study concerns how schools can fulfill their function not only as institutions for knowledge transmission, but also as spaces for the sustainable formation of values, attitudes, and social responsibility. This study aims to analyze the role of schools as arenas for character formation and social awareness, as well as to identify relevant educational approaches for internalizing moral, ethical, and social values. A qualitative approach was employed through a literature review with descriptive analysis of scholarly publications, educational policies, and character education practices. The findings indicate that schools function effectively as educational social environments when character values are systematically integrated through the curriculum, pedagogical interactions, school culture, extracurricular activities, and teacher role modeling. Character formation and social awareness become more meaningful when implemented holistically, contextually, and consistently. The conclusion emphasizes that schools bear moral and social responsibility to create a humanistic, participatory educational ecosystem oriented toward the development of students’ holistic personality. The novelty of this scholarly work lies in its conceptual affirmation of the school as a transformative social space that unifies academic dimensions, character development, and social awareness into an inseparable pedagogical whole.
Abstract:This study aims to explore the construction of students’ contextual understanding of the Qur’anic and Hadith texts and their relevance in addressing the challenges of modern life. The research is motivated by the persistence…
sistence of a textual-normative learning paradigm in Islamic-based teacher education institutions, which risks creating a dichotomy between the authority of sacred texts and the dynamics of contemporary issues. Specifically, this study analyzes the development of critical and reflective thinking competencies among students of the PGSD Program at the private higher education institution STKIP Al Islam Tunas Bangsa in interpreting and actualizing the messages of the Qur’an and Hadith in relation to contemporary social issues. The method employed is Classroom Action Research conducted in two cycles, each consisting of the stages of planning, implementation of contextual learning actions, participant observation, and critical reflection. Data were collected through structured observations of classroom discussion dynamics, in-depth analysis of students’ reflective journals, and evaluation of case analysis projects, which were subsequently processed using thematic analysis. The findings reveal a significant transformation in students’ patterns of religious understanding, shifting from a literal approach toward analytical-contextual competence, as evidenced by their ability to relate religious textual messages to current issues such as digital media ethics, social justice, and environmental sustainability. The implications of this study underscore the urgent need to internalize a contextual approach within the Islamic Religious Education curriculum in private higher education institutions in order to build religious literacy that is applicable and adaptive to the changing times.
Abstract:Differentiated Instruction (DI) has become a pedagogical approach promoted in the Independent Curriculum (Curriculum Merdeka) as a strategy to address the diverse learning needs of students. However, implementation in the…
e field shows a gap between the expected ideals and the realities faced by teachers. This gap between ideals and realities in the field is one of the issues that needs to be researched and assessed so that teachers' readiness as differentiated learning instructors receives attention and can be improved. This study aims to analyze literature related to teacher readiness in implementing differentiated learning in Indonesia. This study uses a literature review approach by reviewing 10 relevant national journals. The 10 national journals represent the results of research conducted in various schools in Indonesia, where these schools have implemented differentiated learning. The results of this descriptive research indicate that most teachers are still in the early stages of understanding differentiated learning and face implementation challenges that include limited training, homogenous learning needs, and suboptimal system support. Thus, the need for teacher readiness in implementing differentiated learning is still far from optimal. In this case, not only teachers are required to be able to carry out their duties in implementing differentiated learning optimally, but related parties in the education sector should also contribute significantly to promoting teacher readiness. The definition of readiness is not only focused on teachers, but as teachers carry out their primary duties as educators, primary readiness is the foundation that teachers must possess. Therefore, a redefinition of the meaning of teacher readiness is needed, which is not only seen from the aspect of individual abilities, but also as part of an educational system that supports structurally, culturally, and professionally.
Abstract:An inclusive education structure that prioritizes equitable access and participation without discrimination, gifted and talented children (GTC) are often overlooked by the system due to the dominance of a homogenized curriculum…
riculum not designed to address their unique needs. GTC possess complex learning profiles, characterized by high intellectual capacity, rapid knowledge acquisition, and intense interests and creativity that exceed the average. The mismatch between conventional teaching approaches and the distinctive needs of GTC in inclusive environments creates serious pedagogical challenges, notably the hindered realization of their full potential. This article aims to critically examine the effectiveness of differentiated instruction as an adaptive curriculum strategy in addressing the diverse needs of GTC within inclusive classrooms. Through a systematic literature review, the differentiation approach is analyzed within the framework of modifying content, process, and product of learning based on students' readiness, interests, and cognitive profiles. The findings indicate that the implementation of differentiation significantly enhances intrinsic motivation, active engagement, and academic achievement of GTC, while maintaining social cohesion in the classroom. Differentiated instruction also contributes to the creation of an inclusive, dynamic, and pedagogically equitable learning environment. The novelty of this study lies in the conceptual integration of differentiation principles with inclusive practices as a foundation for curriculum design that emphasizes individual excellence and appreciation of diversity. These findings offer substantive contributions to the development of a more transformative and responsive pedagogical paradigm, while also providing both theoretical and practical foundations for educators in designing curriculum interventions that empower all learners, including those with exceptional capacities.
Abstract:Social Studies is often perceived by students as a less engaging subject, partly due to the dominance of lecture-based teaching methods that offer minimal contextual learning experiences. The low level of active student…
participation in the learning process impacts their conceptual understanding and critical thinking skills. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the Contextual Teaching and Learning (CTL) strategy in improving students’ conceptual understanding in Social Studies through a literature review of various recent research findings and scholarly publications. CTL, as a learning approach that emphasizes the connection between subject matter and students’ real-life contexts, is believed to address these pedagogical challenges. Analysis of the literature sources shows that the consistent implementation of CTL positively contributes to enhancing student engagement, learning outcomes, and the development of critical and analytical thinking skills. Learning that is linked to concrete social experiences encourages students to actively construct meaning, understand interconceptual relationships, and apply knowledge meaningfully in daily life. The conclusion of this review affirms that the CTL strategy is effective in creating a more interactive, meaningful, and deeply comprehensible Social Studies learning process. The novelty of this research lies in its comprehensive synthesis of previous findings, demonstrating that CTL is not only relevant as an innovative teaching method but also holds potential as a systematic approach to pedagogical transformation in Social Studies education at the elementary and secondary levels.
Abstract:This study aims to examine the effectiveness of the Project Based Learning (PjBL) model in enhancing the communication skills of junior high school students through a literature review approach. The study critically analyzes…
yzes a range of scholarly literature and recent research findings concerning the implementation of PjBL, particularly in the context of developing oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills within primary education settings. The findings indicate that PjBL fosters an active, collaborative, and contextual learning environment that significantly contributes to the improvement of students’ communication abilities. Through project completion that involves exploration, presentation, and group interaction, learners are encouraged to articulate ideas effectively, engage in active listening, and produce writing with logical and argumentative structure. Moreover, the model has been shown to enhance students' self-confidence, independence, and sense of responsibility toward their own learning process. Nonetheless, the implementation of PjBL continues to face several challenges, including limited instructional time, insufficient teacher understanding of meaningful project design, and inadequate supporting resources. Without systemic support and continuous professional development for educators, the application of this model risks becoming a mere formality with little substantive impact. Therefore, this study recommends further empirical research using a mixed-methods approach to investigate the effectiveness of PjBL across various subjects and educational levels. Such studies are expected to strengthen the theoretical foundation and promote the adoption of PjBL as a transformative learning strategy in shaping learners.
Abstract:The rapid advancement of digital technology has significantly transformed the way people interact, access information, and consume media. The internet, as the cornerstone of this transformation, enables instant access to…
information beyond the limits of space and time. One prominent manifestation of this progress is the rise of social media platforms, including YouTube Shorts, which offer short-form videos in an engaging and fast-paced format. This platform has gained immense popularity, not only among adults but also among children and adolescents. While YouTube Shorts can serve as a source of education and entertainment, its unrestricted access regardless of age raises serious concerns. Children are particularly vulnerable to exposure to content that is inappropriate for their psychological development, such as verbal violence, consumerist lifestyles, deviant behavior, and misleading information. This situation prompts a fundamental question: to what extent do digital broadcasts influence students’ mindset and behavior? This study employs a descriptive qualitative approach to explore the impact of YouTube Shorts consumption on students. The findings reveal a duality of influence: on one hand, appropriate content can enhance literacy, creativity, and language proficiency. On the other hand, without proper supervision, this platform may lead to addiction, weaken social interaction, and normalize behaviors that contradict educational values. Therefore, collaboration between parents and educators is essential. Active supervision at home and digital ethics education at school are crucial to shaping a generation that is both critical and wise in navigating the digital information landscape.
Abstract:The shift in educational paradigms driven by advancements in digital technology has had a significant impact on Social Studies (IPS) learning at the Junior High School (SMP) level. This study aims to examine how digital…
technology can enhance student interest and engagement in IPS learning through a literature review approach. This study includes scientific articles published between 2023 and 2025 as primary references. The research findings indicate that the use of digital technology, such as flipped classroom models, interactive learning materials, and digital platforms, can encourage increased motivation and participation among students in IPS learning. However, the success of implementing this technology is highly influenced by several factors, including infrastructure readiness, teachers' competencies in integrating technology, and equitable access to technology. Adequate infrastructure readiness and teachers' ability to effectively utilize technology are key factors in creating engaging and meaningful learning experiences. Additionally, ensuring equitable access to technology for all students is crucial to ensure that every student can benefit from technology in learning. Based on these findings, this study recommends the development of continuous training programs for teachers to enhance their digital competencies and emphasizes the importance of implementing innovative teaching methods that can fully leverage the potential of technology. On the other hand, strengthening technology-based educational policies is also necessary to ensure that the implementation of technology in learning can be optimal and equitable. With the proper use of digital technology, IPS learning at the Junior High School level can become more engaging, interactive, and effective, thus supporting the overall improvement of education quality.
Abstract:Information Technology (IT) education has become a crucial component in the global education system in the current digital era. With the rapid development of technology, the world of education has also undergone significant…
ant changes, particularly in teaching methodologies. Information Technology is not only seen as a field of study but also as a powerful tool that supports the learning process across various disciplines, including social sciences, science, and humanities. The use of IT in education enables the creation of more interactive, dynamic, and easily accessible learning experiences for people from various backgrounds. This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the important role of Information Technology education in improving the quality of education, as well as the challenges and opportunities faced in its implementation. This research adopts a descriptive qualitative approach with a literature study to gather and analyze various relevant sources related to this topic. The data obtained indicate that despite significant challenges, such as the lack of adequate infrastructure and the readiness of educators to use technology, the implementation of IT in education has a significant positive impact on the quality of learning. The implementation of IT opens up great opportunities, particularly in terms of learning accessibility, which can be accessed by anyone, anytime, and anywhere. Technology also provides flexibility in teaching methods, both online and offline, allowing students to learn according to their needs and abilities. On the other hand, the use of IT can enhance the quality of learning through various innovations such as e-learning, simulations, and interactive learning tools that support a deeper and more enjoyable understanding of the material. Therefore, IT has become one of the key elements in advancing the world of education towards a more advanced and inclusive digital era.
Abstract:The role of parents is indeed crucial in shaping the personality and values of children, including in religious aspects. A study conducted in Talang Balai Baru II Village reveals an interesting phenomenon about the role…
of single parents in fostering their children's religious character. Although children of single parents can have good religious character, they also face significant challenges in the process. This study aims to describe how single parents play a role in fostering their children's religious character and to identify the various obstacles they encounter in the process. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, data was collected through observation, interviews, and documentation. The data was then analyzed through stages of data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. The research findings indicate that single parents in Talang Balai Baru II Village have carried out their role quite well in instilling religious character in their children. This is done through the cultivation of faith, the practice of worship, and the formation of noble morals. They also strive to be good role models, offer constructive advice, and continuously pray for their children to stay on the right path. However, there are significant challenges, such as the limited time and energy of single parents in balancing work and educating their children. In addition, emotional pressure arises from concerns about the negative influences of the social environment and technological developments, particularly those coming from peers and social media.