Implementation of the ecotheological approach in Islamic religious education learning at IAIN Kendari

Abstract

The issue of environmental damage and the global ecological crisis demand the integration of environmental values ​​into education, including in Islamic Religious Education (PAI) learning. The ecotheological approach is a strategic alternative for instilling ecological awareness based on Islamic teachings. This study aims to examine the implementation of the ecotheological approach in Islamic Religious Education learning at IAIN Kendari. This study uses a qualitative approach with a descriptive research type. Data collection techniques include interviews with PAI lecturers, observation of the learning process, and documentation studies of learning tools. Data analysis is carried out through data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. The results show that the ecotheological approach is implemented through the integration of Islamic values ​​​​about the environment in teaching materials, the use of contextual learning methods, and the habituation of environmental care attitudes in student academic activities. This approach contributes to increasing student understanding of the relationship between Islamic teachings and ecological responsibility. However, the implementation of the ecotheological approach still faces obstacles such as limited references, suboptimal ecotheology-based learning designs, and variations in lecturer and student understanding. This study concludes that the ecotheological approach has significant potential in strengthening the environmental ethics dimension in Islamic Education learning in Islamic higher education.