Managing School Based on Character Building in The Context of Religious School Culture (Case in Indonesia)

Abstract

This study aimed to present a model for religious character building in religious school culture.This model can improve student religious character by providing worship facilities, religious ceremonies, and religious symbols. The sample group consisted of 450 students representing grades 4-6 from 5 elementary schools in Jakarta, Indonesia. The data were analysed using the Structural Equation Model (SEM). Based on the statistical analyses, the most important finding of the study was that character education in religious school culture, through provision of worship facilities, religious ceremonies, and religious symbols, had predictive effects on student religious character described by obedience in carrying out the teachings of one’s religions, the practice of religious tolerance towards others, and living in harmony with other religions. Model of improving student religious character should be broadly researched not only with religious character building but also with other factors. This study can address the spiritual needs of students through the model of research results.