OPTIMIZING ISLAMIC RELIGIOUS EDUCATION TEACHERS’ STRATEGIES TO INCREASE STUDENT ENGAGEMENT THROUGH GROUP DISCUSSION AT SMP NEGERI 1 PONOROGO

Abstract

Student engagement is an essential factor in achieving effective learning outcomes in Islamic Religious Education, yet some students remain reluctant to ask questions, participate in discussions, and express their opinions. This study aims to analyze the optimization of Islamic Religious Education teachers’ strategies in increasing student engagement through group discussion at SMP Negeri 1 Ponorogo. The study employed a qualitative descriptive approach, with data collected through observation, interviews, and documentation and analyzed through data reduction, data display, conclusion drawing, and triangulation. The findings indicate that teachers optimized group discussion through systematic planning, implementation, and evaluation of learning activities. The strategy increased students’ active participation, particularly in asking questions, expressing opinions, responding to peers’ ideas, and collaborating within groups. Its implementation was supported by teacher preparedness, varied instructional methods, and student enthusiasm, while limited instructional time, differences in student characteristics, and low self confidence among some students constrained participation. These findings imply that well planned and adaptive group discussion can serve as a practical strategy for strengthening student engagement and participatory learning in Islamic Religious Education.