Strategies for Developing Islamic Religious Education Teachers' Competence in Responding to Digital Learning Challenges at SDN 014613 Panca Arga Asahan

Abstract

This study aims to analyze strategies for developing the competence of Islamic Religious Education teachers in responding to digital learning challenges at SDN 014613 Panca Arga Asahan. The development of digital technology requires Islamic Religious Education teachers not only to master religious subject matter, but also to design learning that is creative, interactive, contextual, and appropriate to the characteristics of elementary school students. This study employed a descriptive qualitative approach with a field study design. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation involving teachers, the principal, and students as supporting informants. Data analysis was conducted through the stages of data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing, while data validity was strengthened through source and technique triangulation. The results show that the development of Islamic Religious Education teachers' competence is carried out through the improvement of digital pedagogical competence, the strengthening of professional competence, the use of digital learning media, independent learning, training, teacher discussions, the utilization of the Merdeka Mengajar Platform, and principal supervision. The challenges encountered include limited supporting facilities, internet access, differences in teachers' ability to use technology, and the need to supervise students' use of digital media. This study concludes that teacher competence development strategies need to be implemented in a directed, sustainable, and collaborative manner so that learning becomes more engaging, meaningful, and relevant to students' needs in the digital era without neglecting the main goal of Islamic Religious Education, namely shaping students who are faithful, noble in character, polite, and responsible.