The Role of Islamic Religious Education Teachers in Developing Madrasah Core Values toward Students’ Character Formation at Madrasah Aliyah Al-Islam Surakarta

Abstract

This study examines the role of Islamic Religious Education (IRE) teachers in developing madrasah core values and their contribution to students’ character formation at Madrasah Aliyah Al-Islam Surakarta. The research aims to analyze how teachers internalize institutional core values and to explore their impact on shaping students’ religious, moral, and social character. A qualitative research approach with a case study design was employed to obtain an in-depth understanding of the phenomenon within its natural context. The participants consisted of 30 students selected purposively, along with one Islamic Religious Education teacher as the key informant. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, classroom observations, and document analysis. Data analysis followed the stages of data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing, while triangulation techniques were applied to ensure data validity and credibility. The findings reveal that Islamic Religious Education teachers play strategic roles as educators, role models, mentors, and facilitators in strengthening madrasah core values. The internalization process was implemented through value-based learning, exemplary behavior, habituation programs, and religious activities. Empirical findings indicate that 83% of students demonstrated significant improvement in religious discipline, 78% showed increased responsibility and honesty, 80% exhibited better social attitudes and cooperation, and 75% reflected stronger moral awareness in daily behavior. These results suggest that the consistent integration of core values into pedagogical practices significantly contributes to students’ character formation.