THE APPRECIATION OF AN ISLAMIC EDUCATION CURRICULUM: LESSONS LEARNED FROM THE ISLAMIC PRIVATE SCHOOLS OF WEST KALIMANTAN, INDONESIA

Abstract

This paper discusses research findings on students’ practice and appreciation of the Islamic education curriculum in the Islamic Private schools in Kalimantan, Indonesia.This study advocates the idea of a balanced personality, Al-insan Assoleh and taqwa as the main ingredients for the development of an Islamic education curriculum (Al-Attas, 1977). It demonstrates that researching the practice and appreciation of an Islamic education curriculum is vital in realising the vision and mission of the Islamic educational institutions. This study employs semi-structured interviews with six students from selected Islamic schools in Pontianak. The interview data reveal that most of the students believe that the teaching of Islamic subjects is meaningful. It indicates that the dimension of practical worship or ‘Ibadah’ is more appreciated and valued than the dimension of Islamic belief or ‘aqidah’. The interview data reveal that a lack of motivation and laziness are the problems which negatively influence students’ appreciation and value of the Islamic education curriculum. The study also finds that the various parties and factors influencing students’ perspectives on the teaching of the Islamic education include teachers, parents, Islamic school policy and facilities that help to improve students’ appreciation and practice. The process of curriculum reform in Islamic education should be integrated with a student-centred approach and practical classroom activities that will enhance students’ appreciation of the Islamic education curriculum.