TEACHER EXEMPLARITY AND MORAL CHARACTER FORMATION IN ISLAMIC EDUCATION: A QUALITATIVE CASE STUDY OF FOURTH-GRADE STUDENTS
Keywords:
teacher exemplarity; moral character formation; Islamic Education; elementary school; Islamic character; role modellingAbstract
This study examines teacher exemplarity and moral character formation in Islamic Education among fourth-grade students at SD Al Quran Raudlotut Tholibin. The study was motivated by the importance of teacher role modelling in translating Islamic values into students’ everyday moral behavior. A qualitative descriptive approach was employed to explore the role of Islamic Education teachers and the factors supporting and inhibiting students’ moral character formation. The research was conducted from 24 to 26 February 2026 and involved one Islamic Education teacher and 15 fourth-grade students. Data were collected through direct observation, semi-structured interviews, and documentation, and were analyzed inductively through data organization, reduction, identification of patterns, and interpretation. The findings demonstrate that the Islamic Education teacher functions as a role model, mentor, guide, motivator, and adviser in students’ moral development. Teacher exemplarity is demonstrated through punctuality, respectful communication, Islamic practices, inspirational stories, and positive conduct both inside and outside the classroom. Moral formation is further strengthened through habituation, teacher–parent cooperation, collaboration among school personnel, creative learning strategies, and students’ developing self-awareness. However, environmental influences, peer relationships, limited parental attention, insufficient student awareness, and limited teacher resources remain significant challenges. The study concludes that teacher exemplarity is most effective when supported by an integrated school–family environment that enables students to observe, practice, reinforce, and gradually internalize Islamic moral values in everyday life.
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