Islamic Religious Education Teachers' Strategies in Building an Inclusive and Child-Friendly Learning Environment at SMA Negeri 5 Binjai

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the strategies employed by Islamic Religious Education (PAI) teachers in fostering an inclusive and child-friendly learning environment at SMA Negeri 5 Binjai. The background of this research is rooted in the challenges of 21st-century education, which demand that teachers embrace student diversity in terms of religion, culture, and social background. The study adopts a qualitative approach, utilizing in-depth interviews with PAI teachers, classroom observations, and documentation of learning activities conducted from late June to early August 2025. The findings reveal that PAI teachers’ strategies are manifested in two main aspects: the integration of Islamic values into inclusive pedagogical practices and the implementation of school-based cleanliness and greening programs as forms of environmentally friendly character education. These strategies contribute to creating a learning atmosphere that is comfortable, equitable, and supportive of active student participation. This research offers significant contributions to the development of Islamic religious education practices that are relevant to contemporary student needs.