Analisis Kesulitan Belajar Siswa pada Materi Aliran-Aliran Ilmu Kalam dan Strategi Penanggulangannya

Abstract

This study aims to analyze students’ learning difficulties in understanding the Schools of Islamic Theology (Ilmu Kalam) and the instructional strategies applied by teachers to overcome them at MAN 3 Pasaman Barat. The research employed a descriptive qualitative approach, using observation, interviews, and documentation as data collection techniques. The subjects consisted of students from classes XI IPA 1, XI IPA 2, XI IPK, XI IPS 1, and the Islamic Education (Akidah Akhlak) teacher. The findings reveal that students’ learning difficulties are caused by two main factors: internal and external. Internal factors include low abstract thinking ability, lack of learning motivation, and limited interest in Islamic literature. External factors involve monotonous teaching methods, lack of engaging learning media, and an adaptive teaching strategies unsupportive learning environment. To address these issues, teachers applied several adaptive teaching strategies, such as contextual approaches (Contextual Teaching and Learning), group discussions, academic debates, digital and visual media utilization, and project-based learning tasks. These strategies successfully enhanced students’ participation, motivation, and critical thinking in understanding Islamic theological concepts. Therefore, the use of contextual and interactive teaching methods plays a crucial role in improving the effectiveness of Akidah Akhlak learning.