The Dynamics of the Internalization of Islamic Values in the Formation of Religious Character through Religious Education and Cultural Socialization
Keywords:
internalization of Islamic values; religious character; culture of habit formation.Abstract
This study aims to analyze the dynamics of the internalization of Islamic values in the formation of religious character through the interconnection between religious education and a culture of habit formation in schools. This study employs a qualitative approach with a case study design conducted at MTs Hidayatul Mubtadiin Sidoharjo over a one-month period. Four informants were selected through purposive sampling: the school principal, an Islamic Religious Education teacher, a homeroom teacher/religious activities coordinator, and a student. Data were collected through eight observations, semi-structured interviews, and documentation. Analysis was conducted through verbatim transcription, open coding, axial coding, and selective coding to construct themes regarding the dynamics of the internalization of Islamic values. Data validity was strengthened through triangulation of sources and techniques by comparing the results of interviews, observations, and documentation to identify patterns, variations, and relationships among themes. The research findings indicate that the internalization of Islamic values in the formation of religious character occurs gradually through the interconnection between students’ cognitive understanding, habit formation, and changes in behavioral orientation. Religious education serves as the foundation for interpreting values, while the culture of habit formation provides a practical space to repeat and actualize them until they develop into habits. The internalization process moves from compliance with rules toward independent religious awareness. These findings reinforce Lickona’s framework of moral knowing, moral feeling, and moral action, while also expanding it by demonstrating that transitions between stages are not always linear and are influenced by school culture, role modeling, and social experiences. Contextually, religious character formation is shaped through the interaction between formal learning and school life. Consequently, character education must integrate learning, habit formation, role modeling, and reflection so that values develop into enduring awareness.
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