IMPLEMENTASI KEGIATAN BUSINESS DAY SEBAGAI SARANA PEMBENTUKAN KARAKTER MANDIRI DAN DISIPLIN SISWA MADRASAH IBTIDAIYAH

Abstract

Character education is an essential component in the learning process at the elementary school level, particularly in developing students' independence and discipline. However, character development in schools is often more focused on cognitive achievement rather than providing practical experiences that support character internalization. This study aims to analyze the implementation of the Business Day program as a medium for developing independent and disciplined character among students at MI Miftahul Ulum Ampeldento, Malang Regency. This research employed a qualitative descriptive approach involving the principal, teachers, and students as research subjects. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation, then analyzed using data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing techniques. The findings revealed that the Business Day program was systematically integrated into the school's curriculum through structured planning and implementation. Students actively participated in all stages of activities, from preparation and transactions to evaluation using an exchange money system. Furthermore, the program effectively fostered independent character through responsibility and decision-making practices, while discipline was developed through adherence to rules, time management, and responsibility during activities. Supporting factors included school support, teacher guidance, parental involvement, and students’ enthusiasm, whereas differences in students’ abilities and limited implementation time became obstacles in the program execution.

Keywords: Business Day, character education, independence character, discipline character, experiential learning.