PERAN GURU PENDIDIKAN AGAMA ISLAM DALAM MENINGKATKAN AKHLAKUL KARIMAH PESERTA DIDIK KELAS VII MTsN 2 LAMONGAN

Abstract

This study investigated the role of Islamic Religious Education teachers in improving the noble character (akhlakul karimah) of seventh-grade students at MTsN 2 Lamongan. The research was motivated by the observation that some students still displayed undisciplined behavior and lacked politeness and respect toward their teachers. A qualitative case study approach was employed, involving Islamic Religious Education teachers, seventh-grade students, and school administrators. Data were obtained through observations, interviews, and documentation, then analyzed using the interactive model proposed by Miles, Huberman, and Saldana. Source triangulation was applied to ensure the credibility of the findings. The results indicate that teachers contributed significantly as educators, mentors, role models, motivators, and supervisors in shaping students' character. Moral development was strengthened through classroom instruction and religious habituation programs, such as the 5S culture (Smile, Greeting, Salutation, Courtesy, and Politeness), congregational Dhuha prayer, Qur'an recitation and muroja'ah, together with various religious and social activities. Overall, these efforts encouraged students to become more disciplined, responsible, courteous, and able to practice Islamic values in their daily lives.