Pembentukan Karakter Religius dan Karakter Disiplin Siswa melalui Program Pembiasaan Shalat Dhuha di SMK Assa’adah Bungah Gresik

Abstract

The cultivation of religious character and discipline plays a vital role in vocational high school (SMK) education, particularly as part of preparing students to face the demands of professional life after completing their education. This study aims to analyze the implementation of the Dhuha prayer habit-forming program and the process of fostering religious character and discipline among students at SMK Assa’adah Bungah Gresik. The study employed a descriptive qualitative approach, with data collected through observation, interviews, and documentation. Data were analyzed through the stages of reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions, while data validity was examined using triangulation of sources, techniques, and time. The results of the study indicate that the practice of Dhuha prayer is carried out on a scheduled basis and is supported by the involvement and exemplary behavior of educators. The internalization of religious character occurs through the stages of moral knowing, moral feeling, and moral action, as proposed by Thomas Lickona. This process is evident in increased religious understanding, inner peace, social courtesy, and consistency in performing religious practices. Discipline is reinforced through a monitoring system and the enforcement of school rules. Although some students still demonstrate compliance influenced by sanctions, behavioral changes are evident in improved punctuality, regular participation in activities, and a reduction in serious violations. These findings indicate that consistently practicing religious rituals can serve as both a character education strategy and an initial means of developing vocational high school students’ soft skills and work ethic.