Social Studies E-Module Based on Nadhatul Ulama Values to Increase Tolerance of Junior High School Students: Literature Study

Abstract

This study examines how advances in digital technology are transforming education by shifting learning mechanisms from conventional materials to digital resources that are more interactive, flexible, and student-centered. A key innovation is the use of e-modules, which support independent learning while increasing student engagement. In Social Studies (IPS), e-modules are expected not only to strengthen conceptual understanding but also to develop students’ values, attitudes, and social character. Growing social challenges among adolescents—such as rising intolerance, low social sensitivity, and increasing polarization—underscore the urgency of character education, particularly the cultivation of tolerance at the junior high school (SMP) level. Accordingly, this research explores the development of a Social Studies e-module grounded in Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) values—tasamuh (tolerance), tawasut (moderation), tawazun (balance), i’tidal (fairness), and social concern—as an alternative form of digital teaching material to enhance students’ tolerance. Using a descriptive qualitative literature study, the research collects, selects, analyzes, and synthesizes academic sources (journals, prior studies, and related literature) on e-module development, Social Studies learning, character education, Aswaja An-Nahdliyah values, and the formation of tolerant attitudes. Findings indicate that integrating NU values into Social Studies e-modules has strong potential to create learning that is more contextual, interactive, and meaningful. E-modules enable varied presentations through text, images, videos, reflective activities, and social case studies, thereby improving participation. Embedding Aswaja values also supports social intelligence, empathy, multicultural awareness, and practical internalization of tolerance. Ultimately, NU-values-based e-modules offer a promising innovation that advances both academic competence and the formation of tolerant, moderate, socially responsible students.Therefore, the Social Studies E-Module based on the values of Nahdlatul Ulama can be an alternative learning innovation that is not only oriented towards mastering academic competence, but also supports the formation of tolerant, moderate, and social character in students.