THE ABILITY OF ISLAMIC RELIGIOUS EDUCATION TEACHERS IN DEVELOPING LEARNING METHODS IN STATE JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOLS IN PALEMBANG CITY

Abstract

Teachers have a strategic role in determining learning methods that can facilitate students to achieve learning objectives optimally. The selection of learning methods needs to be adjusted to the characteristics of the material and the objectives to be achieved. This study aims to describe the ability of Islamic Religious Education (PAI) teachers in developing learning methods, analyze supporting and inhibiting factors in the development of these methods, and examine the implementation of learning methods used by PAI teachers in Junior High Schools (SMPN) throughout Palembang City. This study is field research with a descriptive qualitative and quantitative approach so that data is obtained empirically. The research location includes SMPN spread across the Districts of Kemuning, Ilir Barat I, Ilir Barat II, Ilir Timur I, and Ilir Timur II Palembang City. Data collection techniques were carried out through observation, interviews, questionnaires, and documentation, while data analysis used the stages of data reduction, verification, and drawing conclusions. The results of the study indicate that PAI teachers in SMPN throughout Palembang City have fulfilled the elements of pedagogical competence as stated in the national education standards. This is reflected in learning practices that are in accordance with the indicators of teacher pedagogical competence. Supporting factors for developing learning methods include the availability of facilities and infrastructure, textbooks, classroom conditions, and the teacher's role as an educator. Inhibiting factors include leadership style, teacher personality and insight, limited opportunities to understand students' characteristics and backgrounds, family circumstances, and limited facilities. PAI teachers' efforts to develop learning methods at junior high schools throughout Palembang include presenting engaging, communicative, and enjoyable learning experiences.