The role of systematic integration between Arabic language education and Islamic studies in promoting Islamic identity

Abstract

: The present study aimed to investigate the role of curricular integration between Arabic language education and Islamic studies in promoting Islamic identity: An Educational Field Study.

To achieve the objectives of the study, a total of 309 interviews were conducted with specialists in educational administration and teaching, in addition to a group of parents. Several research questions were addressed, including:

• To what extent do school curricula integrate Arabic language skills and Islamic concepts in a manner that enhances Islamic identity?
• What is the role of teaching Arabic language and Islamic sciences in shaping learners’ awareness of their Islamic identity?
• What challenges do teachers face in achieving integration between Arabic language instruction and Islamic studies to strengthen identity formation?
• What educational proposals can contribute to developing the teaching of Arabic language and Islamic studies in ways that support the consolidation of Islamic identity?

The study findings demonstrated the effectiveness of curricular integration between Arabic language education and Islamic studies in enhancing Islamic identity among the study sample across several schools. This effectiveness was reflected in preserving learners’ identity through the regulation and alignment of learning inputs.

The study also highlighted a positive dimension of professionalism and institutional competence within national educational institutions, as well as the awareness of educational practitioners and their efforts to adopt a structured pedagogical approach that reinforces Islamic identity in light of contemporary developments and learners’ evolving needs.

Furthermore, the results emphasized the significant role of educational leadership in activating integration between Arabic language education and Islamic studies, contributing to the upbringing of a conscious generation capable of achieving a deep understanding of both religion and language while assuming social responsibility.

The study shed light on the importance of developing the teaching of Arabic and Islamic subjects within school curricula and identified urgent needs for teacher preparation and professional training based on integrative instructional approaches, thereby enhancing the impact of these subjects in building a firmly rooted learner identity.

Following data analysis, a set of recommendations and proposals was formulated to support Islamic identity through the educational process.