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This research is motivated by the reality of religious diversity at SMP Pembangunan V Yapis Waena, where non-Muslim students also take part in Islamic Religious Education (PAI) classes. The purpose of this study is to explore and describe the responses of non-Muslim students in receiving PAI lessons, viewed from the aspects of attitudes, behavior, and learning outcomes.This research employed a qualitative method with a descriptive approach, using observation, interviews, and documentation techniques that involved the principal, Islamic Religious Education teachers, and non-Muslim students as informants.The findings show that, in general, non-Muslim students respond positively to PAI learning, with a tolerant and open attitude toward universal materials such as morals, ethics, and humanitarian values, although they tend to be passive when dealing with ritual content that does not align with their faith. In terms of behavior, they attend classes on time, follow teacher instructions, participate in group discussions, and complete assignments despite difficulties with Arabic readings. Meanwhile, their learning outcomes are fairly good in general aspects, indicating that PAI lessons benefit them in fostering respect, discipline, and responsibility. The study concludes that PAI learning at SMP Pembangunan V Yapis Waena is accepted by non-Muslim students in a tolerant, adaptive, and constructive manner thanks to inclusive teaching strategies, school policies emphasizing tolerance, and a conducive classroom atmosphere.

The phenomenon of broken home families among elementary school students has become a significant social and psychological issue affecting learning motivation, emotional stability, character development, and academic achievement. This study aims to analyze the relationship between incomplete family conditions and students’ learning motivation, as well as the role of cognitive resilience, social support, and the school environment in maintaining academic achievement among students at MI Al Ikhlas Ancaran. Specifically, this study examines: (1) students’ cognitive conditions and learning motivation, (2) factors influencing cognitive resilience, (3) the role of Islamic Religious Education (PAI) in supporting learning motivation, and (4) Islamic value-based strategies to strengthen students’ cognitive resilience and learning motivation. This study employed a qualitative descriptive approach using observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation as data collection techniques. The participants included students from broken home families, Islamic Religious Education teachers, and homeroom teachers. Data analysis was conducted through data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing, while validity was ensured through source and method triangulation. The findings indicate that students from broken home families generally possess relatively good cognitive resilience, enabling them to adapt to academic challenges and manage emotional stress effectively. Their learning motivation was categorized as moderate to good, reflecting strong internal encouragement to achieve despite family difficulties. The study also found that Islamic value-based strategies effectively strengthen cognitive resilience and learning motivation. Furthermore, a positive relationship exists between cognitive resilience and learning motivation, where higher resilience contributes to stronger learning motivation. Supportive family environments, madrasah settings, and positive peer relationships were identified as important factors in enhancing students’ resilience and academic motivation.

Education is a crucial aspect for individuals; however, in reality, many students face learning obstacles such as low motivation and academic procrastination, which can hinder their psychological development. This literature review aims to analyze the effectiveness of various Guidance and Counseling (GC) services in addressing students’ learning problems and to identify the most prevalent and efficient strategies. The research method used was a literature review of 20 scientific articles from accredited journals and academic books published over the past ten years. Data analysis was conducted thematically to map patterns and trends in the effectiveness of interventions. The results indicate that GC services significantly contribute to addressing learning difficulties through four primary models: group counseling, individual counseling, classroom guidance, and comprehensive services. Group counseling was found to be the most widely used and effective service in enhancing students’ learning motivation and social interaction through group dynamics. Meanwhile, individual counseling proved effective for addressing personal and specific issues such as truancy and procrastination. Although effective, the implementation of guidance and counseling services still faces challenges in the form of a limited number of counselors and suboptimal time management. The implications of this study emphasize the need to optimize group services as a primary strategy, as well as increased support from schools and parents to create preventive and comprehensive interventions.

Bullying is a form of aggressive behavior that is intentionally and repeatedly carried out, characterized by an imbalance of power between the perpetrator and the victim. This phenomenon is not limited to childhood and adolescence but may also produce long term effects that extend into adulthood, including among university students. This study aims to explore the long term impact of bullying on victims’ mental health, with a particular focus on students who have experienced bullying in the past. The study employed a descriptive qualitative method using a literature review approach. Data were obtained through a comprehensive analysis of scientific articles, national and international journals, and previous studies related to bullying and mental health. The findings show that victims of bullying face a higher risk of psychological problems, such as depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder or PTSD, low self esteem, and difficulties in social interactions. These effects influence not only emotional well-being but also academic functioning, including reduced concentration, decreased learning motivation, and lower academic performance. In addition, prolonged psychological stress resulting from bullying may lead to physical problems, such as sleep disturbances and somatic complaints. Factors including limited social support, maladaptive coping strategies, and high intensity or prolonged exposure to bullying were found to intensify the negative impacts experienced by victims. Therefore, this study emphasizes the importance of comprehensive prevention and intervention efforts in higher education settings, such as the provision of accessible counseling services, the implementation of strict anti bullying policies, and the strengthening of social support systems to minimize the long-term mental health effects of bullying among university students.  

Academic stress has become a significant psychological issue among university students, particularly during periods of high academic pressure such as examinations, intensive coursework, and academic performance demands. Excessive academic stress may negatively affect students’ psychological well-being, learning motivation, and academic performance. This study aims to explore in depth the experiences of academic stress and psychological responses among students during periods of high academic pressure. A qualitative descriptive approach with a phenomenological perspective was employed to capture students’ lived experiences. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews with six student participants selected using purposive sampling. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis, involving open, axial, and selective coding to identify emerging themes. The findings reveal that the main sources of academic stress include excessive academic workload, time management difficulties, high self-expectations, and external academic pressures. Students experienced varying levels of stress ranging from mild to severe, manifested through psychological responses such as anxiety, emotional instability, mental fatigue, decreased concentration, and reduced motivation. The study also found that students applied diverse coping strategies, including adaptive strategies such as time management, seeking social support, and self-reflection, as well as maladaptive strategies such as procrastination and emotional withdrawal. These findings highlight that academic stress is a complex and subjective experience influenced by individual perceptions and coping capacities. The study implies the importance of supportive academic environments and accessible mental health services in higher education institutions to promote students’ psychological well-being and resilience. The results may serve as a reference for developing preventive and promotive mental health programs for students facing academic stress..    

Histology practicum, as one of the compulsory practicum courses, offers a great opportunity to practice various aspects of science process skills through microscopic tissue observation activities, identification of cell and tissue structures, and analysis of tissue functions in organisms. This study aims to analyze the science process skills biology education students through histology practicum activities. This study uses a quantitative descriptive approach with a survey method to analyze the science process skills of biology education students through histology practicum activities. Data collection in this study used three main techniques, namely science process skills tests, direct observation, and analysis of practicum report documents. Furthermore, the data were analyzed descriptively quantitatively using descriptive statistics to describe the profile of students' science process skills. Analysis per aspect revealed that students had good skills in the aspects of observing (78.50%), classifying (76.33%), interpreting data (71.67%), applying concepts (73.25%), and communicating results (73.40%), which indicates that histology practicum is effective in developing basic science process skills. However, the aspects of formulating hypotheses (58.17%) and planning experiments (54.83%) were still in the sufficient category, indicating that students experienced difficulties in integrated science process skills that require higher-order thinking skills. The findings this study provide important implications for the development of more comprehensive histology practicum learning strategies, including the integration of inquiry approaches, the use of continuous formative assessment, the application of differentiated learning, and strengthening the connection between theory and practice to optimize the development of all aspects of science process skills of prospective biology teachers.  

Measurement learning is a fundamental and applicable mathematical topic in everyday life, but it often causes learning difficulties for students, especially in understanding the meaning of units, relationships between quantities, and the conceptual measurement process. These difficulties are not only caused by students' limited cognitive abilities, but also by learning designs that do not fully facilitate social interaction and student learning development. This study aims to reconstruct the contextual didactic design in measurement learning by reviewing the role of social interaction and the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) in the student learning process. This study uses a qualitative approach with the type of Didactic Design Research (DDR). The research stages include analysis of the initial didactic situation to identify student learning barriers, implementation of contextual didactic design in measurement learning, and retrospective analysis of student responses as a basis for reconstructing the didactic design. Data were collected through learning observations, analysis of student work results, interviews, and learning documentation. Data analysis was carried out qualitatively by examining social interaction patterns, forms of scaffolding, and student movements in the Zone of Proximal Development. The results of this study indicate that understanding of measurement concepts develops through social interactions between students and between students and teachers within a meaningful learning context. Social interactions and scaffolding provided gradually can encourage students to move from actual abilities to potential abilities within the Zone of Proximal Development. Retrospective analysis indicates that reconstruction of the didactic design is necessary to refine the learning context, activity sequence, and scaffolding strategies to better align with students' learning characteristics. The reconstruction of the didactic design can reduce learning barriers and improve the quality of students' conceptual understanding in measurement learning. This research provides theoretical contributions to the study of social constructivism-based mathematics education and provides practical implications for teachers in designing measurement learning that is more responsive to social interactions and student learning development.

This study aims to explore the integration of financial literacy into context-based mathematics education at the elementary school level by emphasizing the use of local knowledge in learning activities. Employing a qualitative descriptive approach, this research investigates the experiences and perceptions of students and teachers involved in mathematics learning that connects mathematical concepts with real-life financial situations, such as budgeting, saving, and personal financial management. Data were collected through interviews, classroom observations, and documentation analysis to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the learning process and its outcomes. The findings indicate that integrating financial literacy into context-based mathematics learning enhances the relevance of mathematical content and facilitates students’ conceptual understanding. Students reported increased interest and engagement in mathematics lessons, as well as greater confidence in applying mathematical skills to manage personal finances. The use of familiar financial contexts enabled students to perceive mathematics as meaningful and applicable to their daily lives. Teachers identified limited instructional time and difficulties in explaining abstract concepts as key obstacles in the implementation process. Overall, the results suggest that context-based mathematics learning integrated with financial literacy has strong potential to improve students’ mathematical understanding and financial awareness while fostering practical life skills. Nevertheless, effective implementation requires careful instructional planning, adequate time allocation, and appropriate pedagogical strategies to address complex financial concepts. This study contributes to the growing body of research on contextualized mathematics education by highlighting the importance of integrating local context and financial literacy to enhance the quality and relevance of elementary mathematics education.

This study aims to analyze the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum in Fiqh subjects and how its application affects the improvement of students' understanding. Using the library research method, this study reviews various recent literature in the form of scientific articles, accredited journals, academic books, and relevant policy documents. The results of the study show that the Merdeka Curriculum is conceptually aligned with the principles of Islamic education, especially in terms of character development, freedom of learning, and student-centered learning. However, the implementation of this curriculum in Fiqh learning still faces a number of challenges, such as teachers' limited understanding of the new curriculum approach, a lack of project-based contextual teaching materials, and difficulties in conducting authentic assessments on aspects of worship and morals. Technical challenges such as the availability of facilities and access to technology also hamper the effectiveness of learning. This study emphasizes the need for continuous teacher training, the development of open-access learning resources, and improved infrastructure support in order to strengthen the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum. Overall, this curriculum has significant potential to improve students' understanding of Fiqh if it is supported by appropriate and collaborative implementation strategies.

Difficulty reading and writing is still a fundamental problem for some elementary school students, even though these two abilities are an important foundation in understanding various subjects. In the context of madrasah ibtidaiyah education, teachers play a strategic role in helping students overcome literacy barriers in order to be able to achieve basic competencies optimally. This study aims to describe the efforts of teachers in overcoming reading and writing difficulties experienced by three 5th grade students at MIN 1 Gresik. The research method uses a descriptive qualitative approach with observation, interview, and documentation techniques. The research subjects included grade 5 teachers and three students who experienced literacy barriers. The results of the study showed that teachers carried out various strategies, including adding special tutoring hours outside of regular learning, providing gradual exercises according to students' abilities, and utilizing visual media and educational games to increase learning motivation. Teachers also apply an individualized approach so that students are more focused and confident. In addition, parental involvement is optimized through intensive communication so that reading and writing exercises can continue at home. The obstacles faced include time constraints, differences in basic abilities, and low student concentration. Nevertheless, the perseverance and creativity of teachers have proven to be able to drive significant progress in the development of students' basic literacy.

This article explores the application of the Deep Learning approach in inclusive Islamic Religious Education (PAI) for children with special needs (ABK), with a focus on improving the understanding of abstract concepts such as monotheism and morals. The main problems faced by ABK in PAI learning include difficulties in understanding religious concepts due to cognitive, emotional, and sensory challenges. The purpose of this study is to analyze the urgency of Deep Learning in improving the spiritual understanding, motivation, and well-being of ABK through more personalized and reflective learning. The methods used include reflective strategies such as journals and discussions, adaptive media in the form of animation and audio, and collaborative learning with peers. The findings show that the application of Deep Learning improves ABK's in-depth understanding of religious values, as well as spiritual motivation and the ability to apply ethics in everyday life. The conclusion of this study is that Deep Learning can be an effective solution in inclusive PAI learning, supporting teachers in developing more humanistic learning designs and focusing on the character building of ABK.

This study aims to identify various aspects that pose obstacles or difficulties for students in learning Mechanics. This study uses a qualitative descriptive approach that focuses on describing the types of difficulties students encounter in solving mechanics problems. The research subjects were first-semester students of the Science Education Study Program at KH. Mukhtar Syafaat University (UIMSYA) Blokagung Banyuwangi who were taking Basic Physics courses on Mechanics material. Data collection was carried out through diagnostic tests and interviews with students. The instruments used were diagnostic tests and interview guidelines. The location of students' learning difficultdiies was analyzed based on the errors that appeared in the completion of the diagnostic test. The results showed that the main difficulty students had in learning mechanics was in mastering basic mathematical skills, particularly in differential and integral material. Therefore, lecturers or teachers need to design and develop more appropriate learning strategies so that students' problem-solving skills can improve.

This study aims to explore the impact of the Jumat Bersih (Clean Friday) activity on enhancing the interpersonal intelligence of early childhood learners, as well as the challenges encountered during its implementation. This research employed a qualitative descriptive approach, with data collected through observation, interviews, and documentation. Observations were conducted directly and recorded on observation sheets, interviews were carried out using pre-prepared question guides, and documentation was obtained directly from the school. Data analysis utilized thematic analysis with a triangulation method. The results of the study indicate that the Jumat Bersih activity plays a significant role in facilitating the social learning process among young children. The activity supports the development of cooperation, effective communication, empathy, and conflict resolution skills. The positive impacts observed during the activity were also reflected in the children’s daily behaviors, both at school and at home. Therefore, such activities can serve as an effective learning model for strengthening interpersonal intelligence. The main challenges in implementing Jumat Bersih include differences in children’s social abilities, difficulties in guiding balanced interactions, and the need for consistent strategies from schools and teachers. However, these challenges can be addressed through appropriate approaches, active guidance, and collaboration between schools and parents

This study is a literature review aimed at examining in depth the concepts, characteristics, learning difficulties, and applications of quadratic functions in secondary mathematics education. The research employs a qualitative approach by analyzing ten articles published between 2019 and 2025 from both national and international journals. The findings indicate that the quadratic function is a fundamental topic in the mathematics curriculum, playing a crucial role in developing higher-order mathematical thinking skills such as analysis, synthesis, and problem-solving. It also serves as a foundation for understanding more advanced topics such as calculus, analytic geometry, and optimization. However, various studies have found that students continue to face significant learning difficulties, including misconceptions related to the shape of the parabola graph, understanding the discriminant value, and connecting algebraic forms to real-world contexts. To address these issues, research suggests that technology-assisted learning—particularly through interactive software such as GeoGebra—has proven effective in enhancing conceptual understanding, motivation, and student engagement. Therefore, this review highlights the importance of strengthening conceptual understanding, applying contextual learning approaches, and integrating digital technology as innovative strategies for teaching quadratic functions at the secondary education level.

This research endeavors to scrutinize how keen students are on learning Islamic Religious Education (PAI) at SMKS Muhammadiyah 9 Medan. The impetus for this investigation arises from the noticeable lack of enthusiasm among students when they attend PAI lessons. These lessons are frequently seen as uninteresting, lacking variety, and less stimulating when compared to the vocational subjects they are studying. These circumstances create difficulties for PAI instructors, who must establish a learning environment that not only delivers content but also cultivates real motivation and a genuine passion in the students. A qualitative descriptive method was used for this study, and information was gathered through classroom observations, conversations with instructors and students, and surveys to gain insights into students' views on their educational experiences. The information was analyzed to pinpoint the internal and external elements that affect learning interest. The results show that the students' level of interest in learning is somewhere between moderate and low. Personal drive, study routines, and students' mental preparation are examples of internal variables, whereas teaching strategies, the use of educational resources, and the backing of the school setting and family are examples of external variables. The research emphasizes the necessity for teaching strategies that are relevant, diverse, engaging, and more in line with the requirements of the students, based on these findings. It is hoped that learning PAI will not only improve cognitive comprehension but will also raise awareness of the significance of Islamic principles in daily life.

This study aims to analyze the learning difficulties experienced by fifth-grade students at Yayasan Al-Hidayah and identify innovative solutions in the learning process. The research uses a descriptive quantitative method with data collected through questionnaires. The results indicate that students still face challenges in understanding the material, primarily due to the fast pace of the teacher's explanations, a lack of supporting media and teaching aids, and limited learning facilities. The most difficult subjects for students to understand are Mathematics, followed by English and Science. Despite these challenges, parental involvement in supporting the learning process is relatively good, and students tend to prefer interactive learning, such as educational games, group discussions, experiments, and the use of digital media. Based on these findings, there is a need for innovation in learning, focusing on technology-based learning, the use of more varied teaching aids, and the application of creative strategies to enhance motivation, understanding, and student learning outcomes. Such innovations are expected to provide more engaging and effective learning experiences for students, addressing the difficulties they encounter in learning.

Mandarin Chinese teaching by non-native teachers is crucial in global education, given the complexity of the language and culture that require in-depth mastery. This study examines the roles, characteristics, challenges, and effective teaching strategies implemented by non-native Mandarin Chinese teachers. Using a qualitative approach and descriptive-analytical literature review, this study collected data from accredited journals and books from online databases such as Google Scholar, ResearchGate, and national journal portals. The results show that non-native teachers are required to have strong linguistic mastery, comprehensive Mandarin Chinese language skills, a deep understanding of Chinese culture, as well as pedagogical and psychological competencies, including the ability to manage classes and utilize modern technology. Characteristics of effective non-native teachers include sensitivity to observation, critical analysis skills, creativity, good communication, and adaptability. Mandarin Chinese training, such as at LKP AEC Semarang, has proven important to improve the competence of non-native teachers through planned, interactive learning structures and continuous evaluation. A comparison of the effectiveness between native and non-native teachers shows differences; native teachers excel in language mastery and higher student grades, while non-native teachers are more effective in explaining the material in depth with patience. The role of non-native teachers is crucial and integral, encompassing motivator, facilitator, role model, learning designer, and evaluator. Non-native teachers also face challenges such as pronunciation and writing difficulties, limited media resources, lack of confidence, and cultural differences. Solutions include the use of digital media, interactive learning strategies, and professional training. Overall, non-native teachers play a fundamental role in Mandarin Chinese language teaching and have the potential for success. With a strong foundation of materials, innovative strategies, adequate training support, and high self-confidence, they can enhance student interest and understanding, although challenges must be addressed strategically.  

Deep learning is a learning approach that emphasizes in-depth understanding of concepts and the development of critical, creative, collaborative, and communicative thinking skills. Although this approach aligns with the demands of a competency-based curriculum, its implementation at the elementary school level still faces various challenges. Based on a preliminary survey, 65% of elementary school teachers in partner schools admitted to experiencing difficulties in implementing deep learning effectively in the classroom. This study aims to identify innovative strategies that can improve teacher competency through a structured training program. The training activities involved 120 teachers from 10 elementary schools who are members of the teacher working group (KKG), with a focus on mastery of deep learning concepts, the application of interactive learning methods, and the use of educational technology. The training method was implemented continuously using a blended learning approach, including face-to-face sessions, practical workshops, mentoring, and the use of digital learning platforms. Evaluation results showed that 80% of training participants experienced significant improvements in their understanding of deep learning concepts, 70% were able to integrate interactive learning strategies into the teaching process, and 60% actively utilized learning technology to enrich students' learning experiences. These findings confirm that ongoing training integrated with technology support can improve teachers' capacity to implement deep learning in the classroom. Furthermore, the program's success is also influenced by intensive mentoring and collaboration among teachers through the Teacher Working Group (KKG). The implications of this research point to the need for educational policies at the elementary school level that encourage systematic, sustainable, and technology-based teacher professional development programs. Thus, the implementation of deep learning can be optimized to support the achievement of competency-based curriculum objectives and improve the overall quality of education

Deep learning is a learning approach that emphasizes in-depth understanding of concepts and the development of critical, creative, collaborative, and communicative thinking skills. Although this approach aligns with the demands of a competency-based curriculum, its implementation at the elementary school level still faces various challenges. Based on a preliminary survey, 65% of elementary school teachers in partner schools admitted to experiencing difficulties in implementing deep learning effectively in the classroom. This study aims to identify innovative strategies that can improve teacher competency through a structured training program. The training activities involved 120 teachers from 10 elementary schools who are members of the teacher working group (KKG), with a focus on mastery of deep learning concepts, the application of interactive learning methods, and the use of educational technology. The training method was implemented continuously using a blended learning approach, including face-to-face sessions, practical workshops, mentoring, and the use of digital learning platforms. Evaluation results showed that 80% of training participants experienced significant improvements in their understanding of deep learning concepts, 70% were able to integrate interactive learning strategies into the teaching process, and 60% actively utilized learning technology to enrich students' learning experiences. These findings confirm that ongoing training integrated with technology support can improve teachers' capacity to implement deep learning in the classroom. Furthermore, the program's success is also influenced by intensive mentoring and collaboration among teachers through the Teacher Working Group (KKG). The implications of this research point to the need for educational policies at the elementary school level that encourage systematic, sustainable, and technology-based teacher professional development programs. Thus, the implementation of deep learning can be optimized to support the achievement of competency-based curriculum objectives and improve the overall quality of education

This study aims to explore teachers' perceptions of challenges in the learning process for deaf students at SLB PGRI Kamal, Bangkalan. With a descriptive qualitative approach, data is collected through interviews, observations, and documentation. The results of the study show that teachers face challenges in the form of students' difficulties in understanding instruction, limited communication, and lack of pedagogical competence of teachers in special education. In response, teachers apply adaptive strategies such as the use of sign language, visual media, simplification of materials, and an individualized approach. The support of the school environment, such as conducive learning spaces and cooperation between teachers, also strengthens the effectiveness of learning. Teachers consider learning to be quite effective, especially for students who get emotional support and visual learning. This study recommends continuous training for teachers and strengthening cooperation between schools and parents to improve the quality of education for deaf students.