Evolution of Islamic Education Teachers' Competence in Indonesia

Abstract

This research aims to outline a study that examines the historical development, current status, and future direction of Islamic education teacher competency in the Indonesian context. Using a qualitative method approach from interviews with educators, policymakers, and academics.  This report highlights the role of government initiatives and Islamic education institutions in improving teacher competency, focusing on areas such as pedagogical skills, subject matter expertise, and the integration of information and communications technology (ICT) in teaching.  The results of the research show that teachers must reflect uswah alhasanah, teachers do good deeds, have an educational orientation to worship for Allah, have a clear mind in daily life, have a pure heart, master in-depth religious knowledge (ulumuddiniyah), have the ability to educate intellectually (tarbiatul aqliyah), have the ability to educate the heart (tarbiyatul qulubiyah), have the ability to educate character (tarbiyatul khulukiyah), have the ability to educate physically (tarbiyatul jismiyah) and have the ability to educate socially (tarbiyatul ijtimaiyah). These findings indicate that although significant progress has been made in improving the competency of Islamic education teachers in Indonesia, continued efforts are needed to address emerging challenges and to ensure that teachers are equipped to provide high-quality, relevant, and inclusive education. This research contributes to the broader discourse regarding teacher competency in Islamic education, offering relevant insights for educators, policymakers, scholars, and stakeholders involved in religious education globally.