Teaching Methods and Islamic Boarding School Culture: Fostering the Religious Character of Students Sustainably

Abstract

This study aims to identify and analyze the teaching methods and culture, and subsequently explore the religious character values ​​of students (santri) at the Hidayatul Qur’an Islamic Boarding School in East Lampung, Indonesia. A qualitative case study approach was employed. Thirty-eight informants served as primary data sources, supplemented by observations and document analysis. The study highlights that the boarding school's instructional system uses traditional methods—such as bandongan, sorogan, syawir, and rote memorization—integrated with modern approaches like demonstrations and practical exercises to foster deep understanding, intellectual discipline, and independent learning among students. Furthermore, the school's leader plays a pivotal role in shaping the culture and religious ritual traditions essential to preserving Islamic religious heritage. The institution also utilizes social media to coordinate and monitor student activities. Through the boarding school's culture and traditions, students develop exemplary habits and practices that cultivate religious character—including tolerance, discipline in worship, moral strengthening, and a sustained sense of socio-religious responsibility.