Enhancing Social Skills and Reducing Bullying through Islamic-Themed Animation in Religious Education Alhamuddin, Ikin Asikin
Universitas Islam Bandung
Abstract
This study addresses the urgent need to improve character education and social skills among students within Islamic Religious Education (IRE). Character development is essential for fostering moral values, promoting empathy, and reducing negative behaviors such as bullying, which continues to be a persistent issue in many educational settings. The primary aim of this research is to explore how Islamic-themed animation media can enhance students^ social skills and contribute to the prevention of bullying incidents in the classroom. The intervention involves the implementation of animation-based learning tools that integrate both verbal narration and visual storytelling to convey moral lessons in a more engaging and accessible manner. Grounded in Mayer^s Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning, and informed by pedagogical theories on teacher beliefs and classroom practices, this study also investigates how teachers perceive and apply these media in Islamic education contexts. Data were collected through teacher observations, interviews, and reflective documentation during the implementation process. Findings indicate that the use of Islamic-themed animation media leads to increased student motivation, better understanding of religious and ethical values, and observable improvements in students^ interpersonal behavior. Teachers reported a positive shift in classroom dynamics, though they also noted certain challenges, including time constraints and the need for appropriate training. The study concludes that animation media rooted in Islamic values is a promising pedagogical innovation. It holds potential not only for enriching character education but also for fostering a more inclusive, respectful, and socially cohesive classroom environment in Islamic schools.
