Teacher identity, Islamic behaviour and project-based learning methods for madrasah teacher: A phenomenological approach

A project-based learning method is required for the development of students' scientific thinking in the field of akidah akhlak (moral theology). This study takes a phenomenological approach to investigate the role of Islamic behavior and identity in the development of project-based learning methods, involving twenty moral theology teachers and conducting in-depth interviews to reveal the narrative of teachers' practice in using project-based learning methods. Thematic analysis of 20 teachers' two-group interviews revealed that teachers' personal beliefs provided a religiously motivated narrative framework that aided in the interpretation of one's experiences. Individual Islamic behavior, religiosity, and identity creativity play a role in developing project-based learning methods for moral theology. In addition to attributing creativity from God-given personality to learning in moral theology, the primary bond in developing project-based learning methods is the application of Islamic principles and Islamic behavior. Following the learning of moral theology, students' identities, Islamic behavior, and scientific thinking develop. Finally, the findings of this exploratory study indicate that Islamic behavior and personal identity can enhance project-based learning methods. Large-scale research could provide more evidence in the future to reconsider the role of religious education in teacher training as an essential factor in developing project-based learning methods for moral theology teachers.