Caritas-Based Media Literacy: The Role of Catholic Religious Education Teachers in Shaping Students’ Digital Conscience through Shared Christian Praxis

Abstract

The development of digital media has brought significant changes to the lives of students. However, the increasing intensity of social media use has not been matched by maturity in media literacy or ethical awareness in digital communication. This situation places teachers of Catholic Religious Education (CRE) in a strategic position to guide students toward using digital media critically, responsibly, and in accordance with the Christian value of love (caritas). This study aims to analyze the role of CRE teachers in shaping students’ digital conscience through the Shared Christian Praxis (SCP) approach. The research employs a qualitative method with a single case study design conducted at SMAN 4 Palangka Raya. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with one CRE teacher and seven students, observations of the learning process, and document analysis. Data were analyzed using the interactive model proposed by Miles, Huberman, and Saldana, consisting of data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing, while data validity was ensured through source and method triangulation. The findings show that CRE teachers act as learning facilitators, pastoral guides, and developers of digital character by implementing the five stages of SCP: naming, critical reflection, story and vision, dialectical hermeneutics, and decision-making. This guidance encourages students to develop critical thinking skills while also forming a digital conscience, manifested through wise attitudes in using social media, respect for the dignity of others, and avoidance of spreading hate speech and unverified information. The novelty of this research lies in the development of Caritas-Based Media Literacy, a media literacy model that integrates critical thinking, faith reflection, and the value of love as an ethical foundation for digital communication in diverse school environments.