Integrating deep learning pedagogy with project-based spiritual learning (PBSL)
A transformative model for Islamic Religious Education in elementary schools
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 21445258 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Moh Wardi (0000-0001-7835-7753, Universitas Islam Madura, corresponding author) |
| Year | 2026 |
| Pages | 1-12 |
| Publication date | 2026-06-18 |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | British Journal of Religious Education (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 0141-6200 • E-ISSN: 1740-7931 |
| Publisher | Informa UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB) |
| DOI | 10.1080/01416200.2026.2691222 |
| OpenAlex | W7165150436 |
| Language | EN |
| References cited | 15 |
This study develops and evaluates the effectiveness of Project-Based Spiritual Learning (PBSL), integrated with deep learning pedagogy, in enhancing conceptual understanding and spiritual reflection in school-based Islamic Religious Education at the elementary level. Employing a Research and Development (R&D) design based on the ADDIE framework, the study involved 80 fifth-grade students aged 10–11 years from a public elementary school in Sumenep Regency, East Java, Indonesia. Participants were randomly assigned to experimental and control groups, each consisting of 40 students. Quantitative data were collected through pre- and post-tests and analysed using independent-samples t-tests, normalised gain scores, Cohen’s d, and Pearson correlation. Qualitative data from reflection journals, classroom observations, and teacher interviews were analysed thematically using the Miles and Huberman model. The findings show significant improvements in conceptual understanding (t = 7.432, p < 0.001, d = 1.46) and spiritual reflection (t = 8.015, p < 0.001, d = 1.54), with both achieving high N-gain categories. A strong positive correlation (r = 0.812, p < 0.01) indicates that deeper conceptual engagement is associated with stronger spiritual reflection. The study introduces a Deep Spiritual Learning framework and offers a contextual, values-oriented model for 21st-century Islamic Religious Education
Conceptual model · Islam · Qualitative property · Qualitative research · Reflection (computer programming) · Religious education · Spiritual development · Transformative learning · Education and Character Development · Education and Islamic Studies · Educational Curriculum and Learning Methods
Instructional Design
Visible Learning
Transformative learning theory
Project-Based Learning for the 21st Century
The experience and expression of spirituality in childhood
Spiritual well-being of pupils and students
One teacher’s journey towards a spiritual pedagogy – an auto ethnographical narrative of epistemological beliefs and practice
On Qualitative Differences in Learning
| Highly cited | No |
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