Instilling Islamic Character through Social Studies Learning in Lower Grades at Madrasah Ibtidaiyah

Abstract

Basic education is a crucial phase in shaping children's basic character. In Madrasah Ibtidaiyah, Social Studies (IPS) learning is not only interpreted as the transfer of knowledge about the social environment, but also as a medium for internalizing Islamic values. This study aims to describe the forms of Islamic character building carried out in lower grade IPS learning and analyze its implications for students' personalities. The research uses a qualitative case study approach. The subjects of this study are classroom teachers and lower grade students. Data collection was conducted through participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. Data analysis used the Miles and Huberman interactive model. The results show that Islamic character building in social studies learning is carried out through three dimensions: first, ritual habits (memorizing daily prayers); second, material integration (connecting social concepts with the values of monotheism and fiqh); third, interactive habits (enforcing social manners and Islamic brotherhood). This study concludes that consistent habit formation by teachers in the classroom during social studies learning is able to shape students' understanding that social sciences are part of worship. Fourth, Transcendence of Social Studies Learning, Teachers succeeded in integrating the values of tawhid and fiqh muamalah into the real context of the classroom, thereby forming an Islamic and respectful classroom culture.