Local Wisdom-Based Character Education in Madrasahs: Toward Contextual and Transformative Islamic Pedagogy
Keywords:
local wisdom, character education, madrasah, Islamic education, moral developmentAbstract
This study is grounded in the growing concern over the decline of moral values among students in the era of globalization and technological advancement, particularly within madrasah education. The weakening of ethical awareness and cultural identity necessitates an educational approach that is both value-based and contextually relevant. Therefore, this research aims to examine how the integration of local wisdom can strengthen character education in madrasahs. This study employs a qualitative approach using interviews, observations, and document analysis to explore the processes, strategies, and impacts of integrating local wisdom values into moral education. The findings reveal that local wisdom—such as mutual cooperation, deliberation, and respect—can be effectively embedded in both curricular and extracurricular activities, contributing significantly to the development of students’ moral character, including honesty, discipline, responsibility, and tolerance. Furthermore, the integration of local cultural values enhances students’ engagement and facilitates the internalization of ethical principles in their daily lives. However, challenges such as limited teacher competence, diverse cultural contexts, and lack of instructional resources were identified. To address these issues, adaptive strategies including teacher training, community involvement, and contextual learning materials are essential. This study implies that integrating local wisdom into Islamic education not only reinforces students’ character and cultural identity but also offers a sustainable and transformative model for value-based education in contemporary society.
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