The Role of Islamic Education Teachers in Fostering Students' Religious Attitude

Peran Guru Pendidikan Agama Islam dalam Menumbuhkan Sikap Religius Siswa

Abstract

Fostering students' religious attitudes in junior high schools faces challenges due to limited instructional time, lack of environmental support, and socio-technological shifts, which contribute to low worship awareness among students at SMP Nurul Huda Peleyan Kapongan Situbondo. This study aims to describe the role of Islamic Religious Education (PAI) teachers in developing students' religious attitudes and to identify the supporting and inhibiting factors. A qualitative case study design was employed. Data were gathered through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation involving the principal, PAI teachers, and students. Data analysis followed the Miles and Huberman interactive model, while data credibility was established via source triangulation and prolonged field involvement.  Findings reveal that PAI teachers act as educators, motivators, facilitators, mentors, and role models implemented through daily prayer, Qur’an recitation, congregational prayer, guidance, and exemplary conduct. Supporting factors encompass synergy among school culture, families, and Islamic boarding environments, whereas inhibiting factors include low student awareness and technological distractions. The study concludes that PAI teachers significantly contribute to holistic character formation, implying that strengthening synergy across educational environments is essential to optimizing religious character cultivation.