Enhancing Students' Understanding of Aqidah and Akhlaq through Contextual Learning at Mas DDI Majene

Abstract

This study explores the implementation of Contextual Learning in teaching Aqidah and Akhlaq at Mas DDI Majene. Aqidah and Akhlaq are fundamental subjects in Islamic education that aim to shape students' understanding of faith and moral character. Traditional teaching methods often focus on theoretical concepts, which may not fully engage students or connect the material to their everyday lives. Contextual Learning, which emphasizes the relevance of learning to students' real-world experiences, offers an effective approach to bridge this gap. This research investigates how Contextual Learning can be applied to Aqidah and Akhlaq to improve students’ understanding and practical application of Islamic values.

Using a qualitative approach, this study employs classroom action research (CAR), consisting of planning, action, observation, and reflection over multiple cycles. Data were collected through classroom observations, interviews with teachers and students, and analysis of students' work. The findings suggest that Contextual Learning significantly enhances students' engagement with Aqidah and Akhlaq by making the subjects more relatable to their daily experiences. Students were able to see the practical implications of their religious beliefs and ethical conduct in their personal lives. Furthermore, the teacher’s role as a facilitator in guiding students to connect Islamic principles with real-world situations was key to the success of the approach.

This research concludes that Contextual Learning is an effective method for teaching Aqidah and Akhlaq, fostering deeper understanding, and encouraging the application of Islamic values in students’ everyday behavior. It is recommended that the method be further integrated into the curriculum to create a more dynamic and relevant learning environment in Islamic education.