PERAN GURU PAI DALAM MENINGKATKAN MINAT BELAJAR PESERTA DIDIK PADA MATA PELAJARAN PAI DI SEKOLAH MENENGAH PERTAMA

Abstract

In this study, the researcher found something different and unique in one of the schools, namely a junior high school (Sekolah Menengah Pertama/SMP). In this school, teachers perform their roles in a proportion that differs from other schools; however, students’ learning interest remains relatively good. Therefore, the research problem in this study is: “How do Islamic Religious Education (PAI) teachers play their role in increasing students’ interest in learning Islamic Religious Education at the junior high school level?”

The purpose of this study is to understand and examine the role of Islamic Religious Education teachers in improving students’ interest in learning Islamic Religious Education subjects.

This research uses a qualitative method and is conducted at a junior high school. Data collection techniques were carried out through structured and unstructured interviews with informants, namely Islamic Religious Education teachers, and were supported by documentation and direct observation in the field.

The results of the study show that there are three main roles of teachers, namely as educators, mentors, and supervisors. These three roles have been proven to influence the increase in students’ interest in learning Islamic Religious Education at the junior high school level. This school implements two curricula, namely the general curriculum and a special Islamic curriculum, with a target of memorizing at least three juz upon graduation. In addition, there are daily religious practice activities such as ablution (wudu), dhuha prayer, memorization revision (muroja’ah), congregational zuhur prayer, and call to prayer (adhan). Nevertheless, students still demonstrate a good interest in learning PAI.

Thus, it can be concluded that the optimal implementation of teachers’ roles is able to increase students’ interest in learning Islamic Religious Education, even with additional learning content. This indicates the need to consider extending the allocation of PAI learning time at the junior high school level.