Strategies of Islamic Education Teachers in Shaping the Moral Character of the Millennial Generation

Abstract

This study examines the strategies employed by Islamic Religious Education teachers in shaping the moral character of the millennial generation at MAS Muallimin UNIVA Medan. The study employed a descriptive qualitative approach with a field research design. Data were collected through observation, semi-structured interviews, and documentation involving Islamic Religious Education teachers, the head of the madrasah, students, homeroom teachers, and relevant school personnel. Data were analyzed using the interactive model of Miles and Huberman, consisting of data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings indicate that Islamic Religious Education teachers play a strategic role through role modeling, habituation, moral guidance, motivation, supervision, and Islamic discipline. Character formation is implemented through congregational prayer, Qur’anic reading, greeting practices, religious activities, behavioral monitoring, and communicative and persuasive approaches. The implementation is supported by a religious school environment, institutional leadership, teacher collaboration, and parental involvement. However, social media exposure, limited parental supervision, and negative peer influence remain significant challenges. The study concludes that shaping students’ moral character requires an integrated and adaptive educational ecosystem that connects Islamic values, teacher exemplarity, school culture, family involvement, and students’ contemporary digital realities.