Strategies of Islamic Religious Education Teachers in Strengthening Students’ Religious Character through Immersive Technology

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the strategies of Islamic Religious Education teachers in strengthening students’ religious character through immersive learning based on Virtual Reality. The study is motivated by the challenges of the degradation of students’ religious character in the digital era and the need for more contextual, interactive, and emotionally engaging learning innovations. The research employed a descriptive qualitative method with a field research approach. The study was conducted in a school environment that implements digital technology in the Islamic Religious Education learning process. The research subjects consisted of Islamic Religious Education teachers and students involved in Virtual Reality-based learning. Data collection techniques included observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The data were analyzed using an interactive model consisting of data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The findings revealed that the use of Virtual Reality supports teachers’ strategies in instilling religious values through more immersive, contextual, and reflective learning experiences. The strategies implemented included simulations of worship practices, visualization of Islamic history, experience-based learning, and the strengthening of students’ spiritual reflection. Immersive learning based on Virtual Reality also increased students’ enthusiasm, empathy, spiritual awareness, and active engagement in the Islamic Religious Education learning process.