Implementation of Islamic religious education learning based on digital literacy in building students' critical thinking skills in Islamic schools in Palu city

Abstract

The rapid development of digital technology has brought significant changes to the field of education, particularly by expanding access to information and learning resources. However, the ease of access to information has not been fully accompanied by students' ability to think critically in evaluating and selecting information. Students tend to accept information instantly without adequate verification and in-depth analysis. Therefore, integrating digital literacy into Islamic religious education learning has become a strategic approach to enhancing students' critical thinking skills. This study aims to analyze the implementation of digital literacy-based Islamic religious education learning, identify its integration model with critical thinking skills, and examine effective learning strategies for improving these skills. The study focuses on the learning process, the forms of critical thinking skills developed, and the effectiveness of the learning outcomes. This research employed a qualitative approach using a case study design. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation, and analyzed using data reduction, data display, and conclusion verification. The trustworthiness of the data was ensured through source and technique triangulation. The findings reveal that the implementation of digital literacy-based Islamic education learning was conducted systematically through the stages of planning, implementation, and evaluation The students' critical thinking skills improved as reflected in their ability to identify and formulate problems, analyze and compare various sources of information, evaluate the credibility of information, interpret information into new understanding, and construct logical, evidence-based arguments. The effectiveness of digital literacy-based religious education learning was demonstrated by increased student participation in discussions and information exploration, greater independence in explaining learning materials, more reflective learning habits, enhanced ability to verify information, and improved quality of analytical arguments. The findings imply that digital literacy plays a strategic role in fostering students' critical thinking skills. Therefore, strengthening learning evaluation, improving teachers' digital competencies, and optimizing digital learning facilities are essential to support the effective implementation of digital literacy-based Islamic Religious Education.