From Religious Practices to Internalised Values: Developing Students’ Religious Character in the Digital Era

Abstract

The development of students’ religious character has become increasingly challenging in the digital era, as digital media influences students’ attitudes, behaviours, and religious practices. Islamic Religious Education (PAI) therefore plays an essential role in fostering religious values through meaningful and sustainable educational practices. This study aims to examine the strategies employed by PAI teachers to develop students’ religious character and identify the supporting and inhibiting factors in their implementation. A qualitative descriptive case study approach was employed, with data collected through interviews, non-participant observation, and documentation. The data were analysed through data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing, while source and method triangulation were used to strengthen data credibility. The findings indicate that PAI teachers develop students’ religious character through positive habituation, role modelling, religious activities, and the integration of Islamic values into classroom learning and school culture. These strategies contribute to students’ religious obedience, tolerance, and harmonious social relationships. However, inconsistent religious practices outside school and the influence of digital media remain significant challenges. The study implies that religious character education requires more contextual and creative teaching strategies, responsible digital media use, consistent teacher role modelling, and collaboration among schools, families, and communities.