Internalizing Muwatanah Values to Strengthen National Spirit in Akidah Akhlak Learning

Abstract

Globalization and digital media can complicate the relationship between religious identity and national belonging among adolescents. This study examines how muw??anah values love of homeland, tolerance, responsibility, and social participation are internalized through Akidah Akhlak learning in Grade VIII G at MTsN 1 Ponorogo. Using a qualitative case study, data were collected from interviews with the principal, vice principal for curriculum, teacher, and one student, supported by non-participant observation and documents. Analysis followed the Miles and Huberman interactive model with triangulation. Students' national spirit was initially uneven in ceremony participation, collective responsibility, solidarity, and social concern. Internalization combined Islamic-civic reasoning, stories and reflection, discipline, mixed-group work, care for school facilities, social projects, and teacher modeling. These practices were associated with improved discipline, responsibility, tolerance, cooperation, respectful participation in national ceremonies, and social involvement. Constraints included limited time, peer tensions, and polarizing social-media content. Akidah Akhlak can integrate religious and civic character when values are contextualized, modeled, and practiced consistently.