Assessing the Effectiveness of Values Education in Islamic Schools in Indonesia

Abstract

Values education in Islamic schools represents a critical component of Indonesia's educational landscape, serving as a mechanism for character formation and moral development among Muslim youth. This study examines the effectiveness of values education implementation in Islamic schools across Indonesia, investigating how these institutions integrate religious teachings with contemporary pedagogical approaches to cultivate ethical character and civic responsibility. Drawing upon empirical evidence from multiple Islamic educational institutions, this research explores the relationship between values education curricula, instructional practices, and observable outcomes in students' moral reasoning, religious behavior, and social conduct. The findings reveal that effective values education in Islamic schools requires coherent integration of Islamic principles across formal curriculum, school culture, and community engagement, supported by qualified educators possessing both religious knowledge and pedagogical competence. While Indonesian Islamic schools demonstrate considerable strengths in transmitting religious knowledge and fostering Islamic identity, challenges persist regarding assessment methodologies, contemporary relevance, and preparing students to navigate pluralistic contexts while maintaining religious commitments.