Religious character development in elementary schools in Palembang: a comparative study

Abstract

This study compares the implementation of religious character development at SD Muhammadiyah 2 Palembang and SD Negeri 74 Palembang. Using a descriptive qualitative approach with a comparative study method, data were collected through semi-structured interviews, observations, and documentation. The analysis involved data collection, presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results show that both schools approach religious character development seriously and sustainably, but with different methods based on their institutional backgrounds. SD Muhammadiyah 2 Palembang adopts an integrated and systematic approach, embedding Islamic values across all educational activities, combining formal and non-formal programs, and emphasizing a religious atmosphere through a Muhammadiyah curriculum. Teachers also play a role as spiritual mentors. In contrast, SD Negeri 74 Palembang focuses on structured and measurable religious programs such as KAREYASO activities, the “7 Habits of Great Indonesian Children” journal, and active involvement from all school components. This research indicates that both religious-based and public schools can effectively foster religious character, provided they have committed leadership, structured programs, and strong support from school staff and parents.

Penelitian ini membandingkan implementasi pengembangan karakter religius di SD Muhammadiyah 2 Palembang dan SD Negeri 74 Palembang. Menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif deskriptif dengan metode studi komparatif, data dikumpulkan melalui wawancara semi-terstruktur, observasi, dan dokumentasi. Analisis dilakukan dengan mengumpulkan data, penyajian data, dan penarikan kesimpulan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa kedua sekolah mengembangkan karakter religius dengan serius dan berkelanjutan, namun dengan pendekatan yang berbeda berdasarkan latar belakang institusional mereka. SD Muhammadiyah 2 Palembang mengadopsi pendekatan yang terintegrasi dan sistematis, menanamkan nilai-nilai Islam di seluruh aktivitas pendidikan, menggabungkan program formal dan non-formal, serta menekankan suasana religius melalui kurikulum Muhammadiyah. Guru juga berperan sebagai mentor spiritual. Sebaliknya, SD Negeri 74 Palembang fokus pada program religius yang terstruktur dan terukur seperti kegiatan KAREYASO, jurnal “7 Kebiasaan Anak Indonesia Hebat”, dan keterlibatan aktif dari seluruh komponen sekolah. Penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa baik sekolah berbasis agama maupun sekolah negeri dapat secara efektif membina karakter religius, asalkan mereka memiliki kepemimpinan yang berkomitmen, program yang terstruktur, dan dukungan yang kuat dari staf sekolah dan orang tua.