THE ROLE OF ISLAMIC RELIGIOUS EDUCATION IN CHARACTER BUILDING OF ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENTS

Abstract

Islamic religious education is essential in building students' character, especially at the elementary school level. In the context of education in Indonesia, which prioritizes the formation of national character, Islamic religious education is one of the effective means to shape attitudes, behaviors, and personalities that are by religious values. This study aims to analyze the contribution of Islamic religious education in building students' character in elementary schools, focusing on the moral and ethical aspects of its teaching materials. Through a qualitative approach, this study uses literature study methods and direct observation in several elementary schools that implement the Islamic religious education curriculum. The study's results indicate that Islamic religious education can influence students to develop positive attitudes such as honesty, responsibility, discipline, and empathy for others. In addition, Islamic religious education also teaches deep spiritual values, which support students' moral development in everyday life. Based on these findings, it is recommended that Islamic religious education in elementary schools be further strengthened with a more contextual and integrative approach to be more effective in shaping students' characters with noble morals.