Enhancing Early Childhood Islamic Education through Interactive Learning at RA Al-Huda: A Classroom Action Research

Abstract

This Classroom Action Research (CAR) aims to investigate the impact of interactive learning methods on the quality of early childhood Islamic education at RA Al-Huda. Early childhood education, particularly in Islamic settings, plays a crucial role in shaping students' moral and religious foundation. However, traditional teaching methods in Islamic preschools often rely heavily on rote learning, which may limit children's active engagement and understanding of the material. This study explores how interactive learning can improve both engagement and comprehension in teaching Islamic values, stories, and basic religious practices.

The research was conducted in two cycles, each involving the planning, action, observation, and reflection phases. The participants were 25 children from the kindergarten class at RA Al-Huda. Data were collected through observations, interviews, and assessments before and after the intervention of interactive learning activities such as role-playing, storytelling, and group discussions. The results showed a noticeable increase in students' participation and enthusiasm for Islamic lessons. Children demonstrated a deeper understanding of Islamic concepts and were able to recall and apply them in their daily behavior.

This study highlights the importance of adopting interactive and child-centered teaching strategies to foster a more engaging and meaningful learning experience in early childhood Islamic education. The findings suggest that when children are encouraged to actively participate in their learning process, they are more likely to internalize the values being taught. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on improving early childhood education practices, particularly in the context of Islamic schools, and offers practical insights for educators seeking to enhance the quality of their teaching.