PERAN KETELADANAN GURU DALAM MENANAMKAN AKHLAK TERPUJI KEPADA SANTRI DI TPQ MIFTAHUL ‘ULUM

Abstract

Moral education at the early childhood level requires concrete role models rather than mere theoretical advice. This study aims to explore the role of teacher exemplarity (uswah hasanah) in instilling praiseworthy morals in students at TPQ Miftahul 'Ulum. Utilizing a qualitative case study approach, data were collected through participant observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The results indicate three main findings. First, the forms of teacher exemplarity manifest in time discipline, demonstrative worship habits, and intimate interactions using the Yanbu'a method. Second, the strategies employed include measurable habituation with daily reading targets, a persuasive dialogic approach without physical punishment, and collective synergy through monthly teacher evaluations and weekly parent meetings. Third, this role modeling significantly impacts students' character internalization, evidenced by increased self-discipline, profound respect (ta'dzim) for the Quran and teachers, and a drastic reduction in peer conflicts. This research confirms that a teacher's consistency in modeling good behavior serves as a living curriculum, proving more effective than conventional moral instruction in non-formal Islamic education settings.