Challenges in The Evaluation of Islamic Character Education in The Context of Islamic Religious Education (PAI) Learning

Abstract

The evaluation of Islamic character education in Islamic Religious Education (PAI) learning remains a significant challenge due to difficulties in assessing students' character development comprehensively. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the challenges encountered in evaluating Islamic character education in PAI learning and identify strategic efforts to improve the evaluation process. This research employed a qualitative approach using a case study design. Data were collected through classroom observations, semi-structured interviews with two PAI teachers and 30 students at MA Suniyyah Selo, and documentation. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings indicate that the main challenges include teachers' limited understanding of character evaluation, inadequate evaluation instruments, insufficient integration of character education into the curriculum, excessive reliance on cognitive assessment, limited parental involvement, and constraints in school resources. To address these challenges, teacher professional development, the implementation of comprehensive evaluation methods, greater collaboration with parents, and the integration of character assessment into the overall learning process are required. In conclusion, optimizing the evaluation of Islamic character education requires a holistic evaluation system that assesses cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains to support the development of students' Islamic character effectively.