Strengthening Character Education through Islamic Religious Education Learning in the Digital Era

Abstract

Introduction to the Problem: The dynamics of the present era of digital transformation present a twofold disruption for the world of education, particularly in forming the moral character of the young. The massive accessibility of information technology and social media frequently has as its consequence moral degradation, the spread of digital individualism, the erosion of civility, and the phenomenon of cyberbullying among students. Purpose: This article aims to analyse the urgency of, and to formulate a strategic direction for, strengthening character education grounded in akhlaq karimah through Islamic Religious Education learning in the digital era. Design/methods/approach: Using a descriptive-analytical qualitative method based on library research, the study explores the integration of noble religious values into the contemporary learning ecosystem. Findings: The findings show that Islamic Religious Education learning in the digital era can no longer rely on the conventional transfer of theoretical knowledge but requires a pedagogical reorientation based on habituation, digital role-modelling, and the use of contextual interactive media. Reconstructing the role of the Islamic Religious Education teacher as a facilitator of values and a moral bulwark becomes the principal key to success in equipping learners with the skills of digital ethics. Originality/value: The pedagogical implications of this study affirm the importance of synergy among the three centres of education and of revitalizing an adaptive Islamic Religious Education curriculum in order to form a generation of insan kamil who are technologically capable and at the same time possessed of noble spiritual integrity.