IMPLEMENTATION OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY IN IMPROVING ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENTS' LEARNING INTEREST IN ISLAMIC RELIGIOUS EDUCATION MATERIALS

Abstract

Islamic Religious Education (PAI) has a strategic role in shaping the character and morals of students from an early age, as part of the formation of humans with integrity, faith, and piety. However, major challenges are faced in teaching PAI at the elementary school level. One of the main problems that is often encountered is the low interest of students in learning PAI material. This is caused by various factors, including monotonous teaching methods, minimal use of interesting learning media, and the view that PAI material is less relevant to students' daily lives. As a result, the learning process is often not optimal in achieving the expected learning objectives. Along with the development of technology in the digital era, the opportunity to create more interactive and interesting learning is increasingly wide open. Digital technology, such as learning applications, educational videos, online quizzes, and educational-based games, provide new alternatives in designing learning experiences that are not only interesting, but also relevant to the needs of modern students. The use of this technology allows students to learn in a more personal, fun way, and in accordance with their mindset and habits that are already familiar with digital devices. This study aims to analyze the implementation of digital technology in Islamic Religious Education learning at the elementary school level. The main focus is to measure the effectiveness of digital technology in increasing students' interest in learning, as well as identifying supporting and inhibiting factors in its implementation. To achieve these objectives, this study uses a qualitative method with a case study approach. Data were collected through direct observation in class, in-depth interviews with teachers and students, and document analysis related to the implementation of digital technology in Islamic Religious Education learning. The results of the study indicate that the implementation of digital technology has a significant positive impact on students' learning interest. Technology-based learning media not only increases student engagement but also creates a learning experience that is more relevant to the modern era. In addition, this study found that supporting factors, such as the availability of technological devices and student enthusiasm, play an important role in the success of implementing digital technology. On the other hand, obstacles such as lack of teacher training and limited school facilities are challenges that need to be overcome.