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This study aims to analyze the participation of the faithful in the Sacrament of Penance and to identify the pastoral challenges influencing its practice in the Vicariate of West Sulawesi, Archdiocese of Makassar. Theologically, the Sacrament of Penance serves as a means of reconciliation that restores the relationship between humanity, God, and the Church. However, in contemporary contexts, its practice encounters various social, psychological, and pastoral dynamics. This research employed a descriptive quantitative approach involving 267 respondents from four parishes through questionnaire distribution. The data were analyzed using percentage-based statistics to map participation frequency, spiritual motivation, level of understanding, post-sacramental experiences, and perceived obstacles. The findings indicate that although most respondents demonstrate strong theological understanding, sincere spiritual motivation, and positive spiritual experiences after receiving absolution, participation remains largely seasonal and periodic. The principal challenges include psychological factors such as shame and anxiety, structural limitations related to schedule and accessibility, and formative deficiencies such as insufficient ongoing catechesis. The study concludes that the primary issue is not a crisis of faith in the sacrament itself, but a gap between theological awareness and concrete practice, thus calling for more dialogical, communicative, and contextual pastoral renewal.

This study aims to examine the debate regarding the effectiveness of traditional learning methods in science education at Madrasah Ibtidaiyah (MI) amid the development of educational digitalization. The study employed a qualitative approach with a case study design conducted in Jember Regency for three months, from February to April 2026. The research informants consisted of 16 participants, including madrasa principals, teachers, parents, and community members. Data collection techniques were carried out through interviews, observations, and documentation, which were then analyzed using descriptive qualitative techniques. The findings revealed that traditional methods are still considered effective in helping students understand basic science concepts because the learning process is systematic and easy to comprehend. However, limited access to technology in several schools remains an obstacle to the equal implementation of digital learning. In addition, although digital learning can increase students’ motivation and engagement, it does not necessarily lead to an optimal improvement in conceptual understanding. Therefore, this study concludes that a combination of traditional and digital learning methods is the most appropriate approach in science learning at elementary schools and Madrasah Ibtidaiyah, considering students’ needs as well as the availability of facilities and infrastructure. structure.

The Qur'an al-Karīm employs at least four principal terms in referring to human beings, namely al-basyar, al-insān, al-nās, and banī Ādam. These terms are not merely synonymous; rather, each represents distinct yet complementary dimensions of humanity in constructing a holistic concept of the human being. This study aims to: (1) analyze the semantic meanings of these four terms based on mufrodat studies, Makkiyah-Madaniyah classification, and asbābun nuzūl; (2) compare the interpretations of classical scholars - Al-Ṭabarī, Ibn Kathīr, Al-Qurṭubī, and Fakhr Al-Rāzī - with those of contemporary scholars - Sayyid Quṭb, Ibn ‘Āshūr, M. Quraish Shihab, and Buya Hamka; and (3) formulate their implications for Islamic education. This research employs a library research method using the tafsīr maudhū‘ī approach integrated with Izutsu’s semantic analysis model. The findings reveal that al-basyar represents the physical-biological dimension of human beings; al-insān represents the spiritual dimension in relation to ‘ubūdiyyah toward Allah; al-nās represents the social-collective dimension; and banī Ādam represents the intellectual-rational dimension inherited from Adam through the divine gift of teaching al-asmā’ (Qur'an 2:31). Collectively, these four dimensions provide fundamental implications for the development of objectives, curriculum, methodology, and evaluation within holistic and comprehensive Islamic education.

This study aims to analyze the strategies employed by madrasah principals to enhance teacher professionalism through the implementation of managerial functions, academic supervision, entrepreneurship, and socio-spiritual leadership at MAN 1 Bandung and MAN 2 Bandung. The study employs a qualitative approach using a descriptive case study method. Data collection techniques included in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and document analysis, while data analysis was conducted using the Miles and Huberman model through the stages of data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. The research findings indicate that strategies for enhancing teacher professionalism begin with needs-based planning, followed by strengthening clinical academic supervision, fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture, and implementing continuous evaluation. The implementation of these strategies has a positive impact on improving teachers’ pedagogical and professional competencies, work discipline, and the quality of learning. The novelty of this research lies in the discovery of the “Resilient Professionalism” model a model of teacher professionalism that emphasizes resilience and adaptability to changes in curriculum, technology, and educational dynamics. This model is built through the synergy of the spiritual-managerial leadership of the madrasah principal and the collective efficacy of teachers to achieve sustainable quality in Islamic education.

Correspondence administration is vital for supporting operational efficiency in schools. However, manual management often leads to issues such as data retrieval delays, recording errors, and the risk of lost archives. This research aims to design and develop a Web-Based Administration Data Monitoring Information System using QR Codes at UPTD SMAN 3 Majene. The study employs the Research and Development (R&D) method with the Waterfall model, encompassing requirements analysis, system design, implementation, testing, and maintenance.The system involves three primary users: Admin/Administrative Staff, Teachers, and the Principal. QR Codes are implemented as digital identities to facilitate easier archive tracking and retrieval. Results indicate that the system enhances effectiveness and efficiency in correspondence management, accelerates letter request services, and simplifies data monitoring for school management. This system is expected to provide a solution for achieving orderly administration at UPTD SMAN 3 Majene. Furthermore, QR Code integration ensures document validity and digital archive security, supporting a more modern, transparent, and sustainable school governance transformation.

At MA Al-Mahdi Serang, there are challenges in the form of psychological distance between students and guidance and counseling teachers, as well as the negative influence of peers in the digital era that threaten students' independence and religious character. Islamic peer counseling is an alternative guidance and counseling strategy to support students' psychological needs while strengthening their independence and religious character. This study aims to (1) analyze the implementation of Islamic peer counseling services, (2) determine their influence on student independence, (3) explore their contribution to fostering religious character, and (4) formulate an effective Islamic guidance and counseling service model at MA Al-Mahdi Serang. This study uses a qualitative approach with a case study design. The research informants were 13 people consisting of the principal who is also a guidance and counseling teacher, the vice principal for curriculum, subject teachers, and students. Data were collected through participant observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation, then analyzed using thematic analysis. The results of the study indicate that: (1) the implementation of Islamic peer counseling is carried out through a peer counselor recruitment process based on the criteria of noble character and communication skills, as well as counseling skills training based on the values ​​of brotherhood and tabayyun; (2) Islamic peer counseling services have a positive influence on student independence, particularly in self-management and decision-making; (3) Islamic peer counseling contributes to the development of religious character through the internalization of the values ​​of honesty, responsibility, discipline in worship, and the culture of tawashau bil haqq; and (4) the formulation of an Islamic peer counseling model based on the values ​​of brotherhood as an adaptive and contextual guidance and counseling service in madrasas.

This study aims to examine the authority of Islamic Education teachers as a form of moral capital in shaping character education among elementary school students. The research employed a qualitative method using a case study approach at SD Negeri 104267 Pegajahan. The primary subjects of the study were Islamic Religious Education (PAI) teachers, while the informants consisted of students, fellow teachers, and the school principal. Data were collected through observations, in-depth interviews, and documentation studies, then analyzed thematically to identify patterns related to teacher authority and character formation. The findings indicate that the authority of Islamic Religious Education teachers functions as a moral force recognized and respected by students, making it an important asset in the internalization of character values. This authority was formed through exemplary behavior, consistency in attitudes, and the establishment of humanistic pedagogical relationships between teachers and students. Through these qualities, teachers became moral role models who positively influenced students’ character development both inside and outside the classroom. The study concludes that strengthening teacher authority as moral capital is an effective strategy for realizing authentic, meaningful, and sustainable character education in elementary schools, as teacher authority should not only be viewed institutionally but also as a moral resource that significantly contributes to students’ personal and social development.

This study is motivated by the leadership of the principal at MTs Darul Falah Sumbergempol Tulungagung, who involves all school personnel in school activities. Although the principal’s tenure is relatively new, the principal has been able to implement continuous changes to advance the institution and improve the quality and services of the school. The research employed a qualitative approach. Data were collected through participant observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The data analysis techniques included (1) data reduction, (2) data display, and (3) conclusion drawing/verification. The results of this study indicate that: (1) The principal’s strategy in mobilizing subordinates to improve the quality of learning at MTs Darul Falah Sumbergempol Tulungagung is carried out by ensuring that teachers perform their duties professionally, participating directly in the preparation of lesson plans (RPP), selecting competent teachers to guide students in self-development activities, providing explanations and motivation to subordinates regarding the implementation of tasks in the madrasah, and giving instructions to enhance staff capabilities by forming well-organized teamwork. (2) The principal’s strategy in influencing subordinates to improve the quality of learning is implemented by enhancing personnel performance, providing rewards to subordinates, setting a good example, showing concern and attention, improving welfare, motivating subordinates, and supporting as well as appreciating their achievements. (3) The principal’s strategy in encouraging improvements in the quality of learning is carried out by inviting subordinates to enhance teachers’ competencies, motivating teachers to be productive and innovative, coordinating the outcomes of teachers’ work, consistently evaluating teachers’ activities, conducting official meetings, providing motivation during these meetings, and setting an example by arriving at school earlier than others.   

Increasingly digitalised and globally integrated market competition demands that micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) no longer merely excel in local markets, but are also capable of building sustainable competitiveness in broader markets. Recent literature indicates that innovation, digital capabilities, and international networks are increasingly viewed as strategic determinants of MSME competitiveness, although the relationships between these variables are often examined in isolation and are not always consistent. This study aims to analyse the influence of innovation, digital capabilities, and international networks on the global competitiveness of MSMEs. The research employs an explanatory quantitative approach with a cross-sectional design. The sample consists of 200 owners or principal managers of SMEs in East Java, selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire and analysed using Structural Equation Modelling–Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS). The results of the analysis indicate that innovation, digital capabilities, and international networks have a positive and significant influence on the global competitiveness of SMEs. The path coefficient values indicate that digital capabilities are the strongest predictor, followed by international networks and innovation. These findings confirm that strengthening the global competitiveness of MSMEs requires an integrated strategy that links value renewal, digital transformation, and the sustainable development of external networks.

This study examines the integration of religious moderation values in Islamic Religious Education (PAI) and its impact on students’ religious tolerance in public junior high schools in Padangsidimpuan City. The research is based on the need to foster tolerance, mutual respect, and harmonious coexistence among students from diverse religious and social backgrounds. Using a qualitative field research approach, the study was conducted in several public junior high schools. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and documentation involving principals, PAI teachers, and students. Data analysis followed the stages of data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing, with validity ensured through triangulation. The findings reveal that religious moderation values have been integrated into the planning, implementation, and evaluation stages of PAI learning. Teachers incorporate key values such as tolerance, justice, moderation, deliberation, equality, and anti-violence into both teaching materials and classroom practices. This integration has led to positive outcomes, including increased mutual respect among students, reduced conflicts, and a more harmonious learning environment. Overall, PAI learning plays a significant role in shaping students’ character, promoting moderate attitudes, and strengthening religious tolerance in a diverse school setting.

This research aims to examine the provisions and status of probation as a principal punishment in the National Criminal Code, as well as its relevance to achieving the objectives of reforming the penal system in Indonesia. The research design employed is normative legal research using a legislative and conceptual approach. The data utilized consists of secondary data obtained through a literature review, analyzed using qualitative descriptive techniques. The results of the research show that probation under Law No. 1 of 2023 on the Criminal Code has been established as one of the principal penalties that can be directly imposed by a judge, thus no longer merely a component of conditional sentences as in the old Criminal Code. This regulation reflects a paradigm shift in sentencing from a retributive approach toward a rehabilitative and restorative approach by providing offenders with the opportunity to remain within the community under supervision. However, its implementation still faces challenges, including the absence of comprehensive technical regulations, potential conflicts of norms, and institutional limitations in carrying out supervision. Therefore, supervised probation holds significant relevance as a more humane sentencing alternative, although it requires strengthened regulations and a supervision system to ensure its effective and consistent application.

Leadership is the key to success in educational institutions, transformational leadership always emphasizes the vision, mission, and goals of the institution and motivates all school members to cooperate in advancing the institution. Transformational leadership implemented at SMAN 2 and MAN 2 Kediri City is able to bring positive changes and encourage better achievements. Educational institutions whose leaders implement transformational leadership tend to be more active and adaptive to change. This research model uses a qualitative approach with a multi-case study design. Data collection techniques use in-depth interviews, participant observation, and documentation. Data analysis techniques use condensation, data display, and drawing conclusions. The findings are that the principal drives teacher professionalism by encouraging followers to imitate his positive behavior, be flexible, and form a personal commitment to organizational transformation. The principal acts as an inspiring motivator by providing inspirational motivation, building effective communication, and consolidating the strength of followers to support transformation.Principals hone teachers' intellectual abilities by involving them in decision-making, preparing them for challenges, and providing coaching, feedback, and evaluation. Principals act as role models by providing personal feedback, rewarding them, and promoting the achievement of the institution's goals.

This study aims to conduct a systematic synthesis of available empirical evidence to empirically ascertain the impact of Board of Directors' competence on earnings management practices in Islamic banking. The research employs a qualitative literature review approach. A literature search was performed on the Scopus database for the period 2010–2025, utilizing a combination of the keywords "Islamic bank," "Board of Director," and "Earnings Management." From an initial pool of 127 identified documents, a rigorous screening process based on inclusion and exclusion criteria yielded 53 reputable journal articles as the final units of analysis. Data analysis was conducted using thematic analysis to synthesize substantive findings. The synthesis results consistently confirm that Board of Directors' competence demonstrates a negative and significant impact on earnings management practices in Islamic banking. However, the effectiveness of this impact is not homogeneous. The principal findings identify three crucial boundary conditions: (1) The presence of specific expertise in finance and Sharia contracts at the board level serves as the primary differentiator of supervisory effectiveness; (2) The complementary interaction with the Sharia Supervisory Board (SSB) moderates the strength of this relationship; and (3) The regional institutional context (centralization model in Southeast Asia vs. decentralization in the GCC) significantly influences the effectiveness of governance in curbing the manipulation of discretionary accounts, including the Profit Equalization Reserve (PER).

This study examines Marian devotion in the Catholic Church as a form of veneration (dulia) rather than worship (latria), addressing persistent misconceptions that equate Catholic devotional practices with idolatry. The research aims to identify the forms of Marian devotion practiced by Catholics in Indonesia and to analyze the challenges encountered in living out these practices. A descriptive qualitative approach was employed using a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) guided by the PRISMA framework. Two hundred articles were initially identified through Google Scholar and screened according to relevance, recency, geographical context, and methodological criteria, resulting in four eligible studies for analysis. The findings reveal four principal forms of devotion: the use of statues as aids to prayer, pilgrimages to Marian sites, Montfort-style Marian consecration, and the rosary emphasizing praise, imitation, and prayer with Mary. These practices deepen faith and lead the faithful closer to Christ without replacing divine worship. Challenges include external religious intolerance toward devotional symbols and limited theological understanding among believers. Therefore, sound catechesis grounded in Scripture and Church Tradition is essential to ensure authentic and balanced Marian devotion.  

This study aims to: (1) describe the integration of educational games in Islamic Education (SKI) learning; (2) understand students' learning experiences in learning Islamic cultural history in classes that integrate educational games; (3) examine the impact on the learning outcomes of class VIII students of MTs N 1 Wonosobo Research. This study uses a qualitative approach with a phenomenological research type. The research subjects include SKI subject teachers, madrasa principals, and class VIII students of MTs N 1 Wonosobo Research. Data collection techniques were carried out through in-depth interviews, observation of the learning process, and documentation studies. Data analysis was carried out through the stages of data reduction, data presentation, as well as drawing conclusions and verification. The results of the study indicate that the integration of educational games in Islamic Education (SKI) learning is implemented in a planned and contextual manner as part of the teacher's learning strategy. The use of educational games can increase student learning motivation which is characterized by increased enthusiasm, activeness, focus, and student participation in the learning process. In terms of learning outcomes, the percentage of student learning completion before and after the educational game integration both reached 100%, with a Minimum Completion Criteria (KKM) of 68. However, the average (mean) student learning outcomes increased from 94.28 to 95.17, an increase of ±0.95%. This finding indicates that the integration of educational games not only maintains learning completion but also improves the quality of students' understanding of the Islamic Cultural History material. Thus, the integration of educational games has proven to be an effective learning innovation in improving student motivation and learning outcomes in the subject of Islamic Cultural History.

Social Studies (IPS) learning at the elementary school level plays a strategic role in shaping students’ understanding of social, cultural, and economic life, as well as national values. This study aims to analyze the differences between the 2013 Curriculum and the Merdeka Curriculum in IPS learning, including planning, implementation, the use of methods and media, and the assessment of learning outcomes. The research employed a descriptive qualitative approach with a case study, collecting data from curriculum documents, lesson plans (RPP), syllabi, classroom observations, interviews with teachers and school principals, and student questionnaires. The results indicate that the 2013 Curriculum provides a clear learning structure, detailed lesson plans, and systematic material organization that facilitates teachers, but it is less flexible and less contextualized for students. In contrast, the Merdeka Curriculum emphasizes flexibility, relevance of content to the local context, innovative methods such as project-based learning and blended learning, as well as holistic assessment focusing on critical thinking skills, social literacy, and student character. The implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum can enhance students’ learning interest, active participation, understanding of social concepts, and social awareness; however, its effectiveness depends on teacher readiness, school support, facilities, and consistency in assessment. These findings suggest that selecting an appropriate IPS curriculum should consider a balance between structure and flexibility, content relevance, teacher competence, and supporting facilities.

This study aims to systematically analyze the implementation of formative and summative assessments in Grade IV Islamic Religious Education (PAI) at SDN 2 Konda within the framework of the Merdeka Curriculum. The research employs a qualitative approach with a case study design to obtain an in-depth and contextual understanding of classroom assessment practices. Data were collected through classroom observations, in-depth interviews with teachers, the principal, and parents, as well as an analysis of curriculum documents and various assessment instruments used throughout the learning process. The data were analyzed using thematic coding techniques supported by NVivo software, guided by the Formative Summative Continuum framework to examine the alignment and integration between both assessment types. The findings indicate that teachers have regularly implemented formative assessment through digital quizzes, direct observation, reflective discussions, and continuous feedback, which have increased student participation and strengthened competency mastery. Meanwhile, summative assessment was conducted at the end of the semester through written tests and project-based assignments; however, it still primarily emphasizes cognitive aspects and has not fully integrated formative assessment evidence. The study also identifies limitations in the use of multidimensional rubrics, continuous portfolio management, and meaningful parental involvement in the overall evaluation process.

The dynamics of the development of Madrasah Tsanawiyah (MTs) Al Hikmah cannot be separated from the role of the principal’s communication. Analogous to the human body, communication functions as blood that must flow to all parts. This constitutes one of the foundations for quality development. The communication strategy of the principal of MTs Al Hikmah in quality development exhibits distinctive characteristics. The principal is able to establish highly effective communication despite not having an educational background in communication studies. The principal employs prophetic-based communication strategy to enhance institutional quality. This study is qualitative research employing a phenomenological approach. Data were collected through interviews with the principal, foundation caretakers or administrators, teachers, parents or students, and stakeholders. In addition, interview data were systematically dialogued with documents and observations. After data collection, the data were analyzed using prophetic and quality-based approaches. The analytical process involved data condensation and triangulation to ensure the scientific accountability of the findings. The communication implemented operates effectively according to its roles as persuasive, informative, collective-regulative, and integrative, with a linear pattern through channels of direction, instruction, and task assignment aligned with institutional objectives. (b) The direction of the communication strategy is predominantly top-down rather than bottom-up within formal school contexts, guided by ethics of liberation, humanization, and decentralization. Diagonal communication is conducted with several informants, such as vice principals for curriculum, student affairs, and facilities and infrastructure, through various communication platforms. Interpersonal communication is also well established, with a strong emphasis on motivating subordinates from multiple perspectives.

Education is a conscious and planned effort to develop individual potential in order to create qualified human resources. Therefore, to achieve this goal effectively, strong management, good coordination, and solid solidarity among all educational elements are necessary. Solidarity among educators plays an important role in supporting the implementation of educational programs and achieving institutional goals. This study aims to determine the principal's methods and strategies for increasing solidarity among educators in the school environment. This study employed a qualitative research method, with data obtained through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation related to school activities. The validity of the data was ensured using triangulation techniques to maintain accuracy and credibility. The results show that educator solidarity at SMPIQu Al-Bahjah is implemented through routine deliberations, structured morning briefings, and regular weekly evaluations involving all educators. These activities are consistently carried out as a collective effort to achieve the school’s vision and mission. The implications of this research are expected to provide practical benefits for educational institutions in strengthening educator solidarity. In addition, this research can serve as a reference for other academics in developing and applying Emile Durkheim's structural-functional theory within educational management contexts.

The objective of this study is to formulate new propositions on school management based on the findings obtained from the two schools under investigation, namely: (1) school planning in improving teacher performance at State Islamic Senior High School 1 Trenggalek and State Senior High School 1 Trenggalek; (2) the implementation of school management in improving teacher performance at State Islamic Senior High School 1 Trenggalek and State Senior High School 1 Trenggalek; and (3) school supervision in improving teacher performance at State Islamic Senior High School 1 Trenggalek and State Senior High School 1 Trenggalek. This research employed a case study approach with a qualitative research design. The researcher’s presence in the schools served as the primary instrument, supported by non-human instruments as complementary tools. Data sources consisted of primary data in the form of words and actions observed from principals, vice principals, teachers, and administrative staff, as well as secondary data in the form of school documents. Data collection techniques included in-depth interviews, participant observation, and documentation. Data analysis was conducted using the Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña model, which comprises data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing. The data analysis techniques applied were (1) single-case analysis conducted separately in each school and (2) cross-case analysis conducted by comparing and synthesizing data across cases. The research findings indicate that: (1) school planning to improve teacher performance carried out by principals included (a) adherence to the school’s vision, mission, and objectives; (b) consideration of the results of the School Self-Evaluation (EDS) through SWOT analysis to enhance teacher performance; and (c) the formulation of school activity plans collaboratively with the school committee; (2) the implementation of school management to improve teacher performance by principals involved (a) mobilizing and motivating all members of the school community and utilizing all available school resources; (b) controlling and supervising the implementation of school activities; (c) securing support for school activities from parents/guardians, the school committee, and the community; (d) fulfilling teachers’ needs; (e) proportional distribution of tasks and clear job descriptions aligned with teachers’ competencies; (f) enhancement of teacher competencies; and (g) fostering a culture of mutual cooperation, care, and respect among school members to improve teacher performance.