Instructional Strategies in Islamic Religious Education to Enhance Emotional Intelligence of Elementary School Students

Abstract

Emotional intelligence is a fundamental aspect of students’ holistic development, particularly at the elementary school level where character formation and emotional regulation are intensively shaped. Islamic Religious Education (IRE) plays a strategic role in nurturing students’ emotional intelligence by integrating moral values, spiritual awareness, and social responsibility into learning activities. This study aims to examine instructional strategies employed by Islamic Religious Education teachers in enhancing the emotional intelligence of elementary school students. Using a qualitative approach, data were collected through classroom observations, in-depth interviews with IRE teachers, and documentation analysis. The findings reveal that effective instructional strategies include value-based learning, teacher modeling of emotional and moral behavior, reflective practices, cooperative learning, and contextualization of Islamic teachings in students’ daily lives. These strategies contribute to the development of students’ self-awareness, emotional regulation, empathy, and interpersonal skills. The study concludes that well-designed and value-oriented instructional strategies in Islamic Religious Education significantly support the enhancement of emotional intelligence among elementary school students. The findings provide practical implications for teachers and policymakers in strengthening emotionally and spiritually grounded educational practices at the primary education level.