The Role of Islamic Religious Education (PAI) Teachers in Efforts to Develop Children’s Discipline and Responsibility at MTs Darul Hamidi NW Batu Mirik, Rarang Tengah Village, Terara District

Abstract

Character development is a critical component of Islamic education, particularly in cultivating students’ discipline and responsibility through consistent educational practices and moral guidance. This study aims to examine the role of Islamic Religious Education (PAI) teachers in developing students’ discipline and responsibility and to identify the supporting and hindering factors at MTs Darul Hamidi NW Batu Mirik, East Lombok, Indonesia. A qualitative descriptive approach was employed. Data were collected through observations, semi-structured interviews, and documentation involving the principal, PAI teachers, vice principals, and students. Data were analyzed using data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing and verification, with credibility strengthened through source and technique triangulation, peer debriefing, and member checking. The findings demonstrate that PAI teachers contribute to students’ disciplinary development through direct instruction, exemplary behavior, religious habituation, continuous advice, and motivational guidance. Teachers’ punctuality, appropriate conduct, participation in congregational prayer, and consistent enforcement of routines provided concrete behavioral models for students. Responsibility was developed through academic assignments, delegated school duties, guidance, supervision, and opportunities for students to complete obligations independently. The study further identified teachers and parents as major supporting factors, while peer influence and less supportive external environments constituted potential barriers. The findings indicate that character development is strengthened when religious instruction is integrated with modeling, habituation, and continuous collaboration between school and family. The study contributes contextual evidence on how PAI teachers translate Islamic values into observable disciplinary and responsible behavior within a madrasah setting.