The Role of Islamic Religious Education Teachers in Cultivating Students' Tolerance: A Multisite Study at MA Nuriddahlani Banyuanyar and MA Walisongo Gending, Probolinggo

Abstract

Tolerance is an important component of education because it involves students’ ability to appreciate differences, respect others’ rights, and build harmonious relationships. This study aims to describe the role of Islamic Religious Education (PAI) teachers in developing students’ tolerance attitudes and its implications at MA Nuriddahlani Banyuanyar and MA Walisongo Gending Probolinggo. The study employed a qualitative approach using a multisite case study design. Data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The informants consisted of madrasah principals, PAI teachers, and students. Data were analyzed through data condensation, data display, conclusion drawing, and cross-site analysis. Data validity was examined through source, technique, and time triangulation. The findings reveal three main roles of PAI teachers: facilitator, motivator, and evaluator. As facilitators, teachers provide learning activities that encourage discussion, cooperation, expressing opinions, and appreciating differences. As motivators, teachers provide guidance, advice, encouragement, modeling, reinforcement, and appreciation of positive behavior. As evaluators, teachers observe, assess, provide feedback, and guide students’ attitudinal development. The implications are reflected in increased social concern, reduced intolerant attitudes, and the development of respect for differences. The findings indicate that tolerance formation cannot rely solely on material delivery, but requires modeling, dialogue, habituation, motivation, reinforcement, and continuous evaluation.