Strengthening Students’ Character through Tahfidz Quran in Islamic Education Curriculum

TLDR

The model addresses inefficiencies and distrust in character formation by integrating intra‑ and extra‑curricular activities within Islamic studies and Tahfidz Quran programs. The study proposes a character‑education model that links intra‑ and extra‑curricular activities, using Tahfidz Quran as a foundational element to strengthen character formation among students. The model was developed through qualitative research in two senior high schools, using observations, interviews, and documentation to integrate Tahfidz Quran into the curriculum. Thematic analysis revealed that Tahfidz Quran activities reinforce the Islamic Studies curriculum, enhance students’ memorization efforts, and positively impact their character.

Abstract

This article related to a character education model aims to link the orientation of intra-curricular activities and extra-curricular activities, which are typically conducted separately. In this context, the built model is not to reproduce what has been taught in intra-curricular activities, which leads to inefficiencies. It is also not as a substitution where extra-curricular activities replaced intra-curricular activities based on the assumption of distrust in the process of character formation in intra-curricular activities. The model in the form of extra-curricular activities has a role in strengthening character education efforts performed in intra-curricular activities. This rises within the Islamic studies subject and Tahfidz Quran extra-curricular activity. By building the spirit of character education, the model creates the Quran as the primary foundation to the life philosophy of Minangkabau people in West Sumatra, “Adat Basandi Syara, Syara Basandi Kitabullah.” This model is derived from the research conducted in two senior high schools: SMAN 1 Padang Panjang and SMAN 1 Padang. The research uses qualitative methodology, and data are collected through observation, interview, and documentation. The results of the study are thematically analyzed in three main categories: the reinforcement patterns of the curriculum of Islamic Studies through Tahfidz Quran activities; students’ efforts in memorizing the Quran; and the impacts of Tahfidz program initiation on students’ character.