Strategy for Strengthening Students' Noble Character Through Morning Habituation at SMP Istiqamah Bandung City

Abstract

This study was motivated by the importance of strengthening students’ noble character as part of character education in schools. SMP Istiqamah Bandung City implements morning habituation activities, including congregational Duha prayer, Qur’an recitation, literacy activities, and memorization targets, as a strategy to develop positive habits and instill moral values. This study aimed to describe the strategy for strengthening students’ noble character through morning habituation, identify the supporting and inhibiting factors in its implementation, and analyze changes in students’ character after participating in the program. This research employed a qualitative approach using a case study method. Data were collected through observations, interviews, and documentation involving Islamic Religious Education teachers, homeroom teachers, and eighth-grade students. Data were analyzed through data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings revealed that the strategy for strengthening noble character was implemented in a structured and consistent manner and involved all members of the school community. Supporting factors included teachers’ role modeling, regular evaluation, students’ motivation, and parental support, while inhibiting factors included students’ boredom and distractions caused by mobile phone use. Morning habituation contributed positively to the development of students’ noble character, particularly in terms of honesty, patience, discipline, responsibility, and mutual respect