The Contribution of Islamic Religious Education Teachers to Student Character Development Through Guidance and Counseling Services: A Multi-Site Study in Public Elementary Schools

Abstract

Character education has become a central priority in Indonesia’s national education system. This multi-site qualitative study aims to describe and compare the contribution of Islamic Religious Education (PAI) teachers to student character development through guidance and counseling services at two public elementary schools with different socio-cultural contexts: SDN Ibu Jenab 2 (urban area, Tangerang) and SDN Selagredang (rural area, Cianjur). Data were collected through participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and document analysis. The findings reveal that PAI teachers in both schools play strategic roles as educators, role models, counselors, and motivators. The integration of instructional materials, individual and group counseling, and habituation activities effectively internalizes Islamic character values. However, challenges persist, including limited instructional time, diverse family backgrounds, and insufficient synergy between schools and families. Comparative analysis shows that the urban school faces stronger negative influences from digital gadgets, while the rural school struggles more with limited facilities and parental economic constraints. The study concludes that PAI teachers’ contributions are highly significant but depend fundamentally on strengthened collaboration among schools, families, and communities. Recommendations include enhancing PAI teachers’ counseling competencies and establishing regular school-family partnership programs tailored to each local context.