Implementation of 'Love Curriculum' Values in Arabic Language Learning Materials and Methods: A Case Study on Strengthening Students' Character at Wali Songo Ngabar Islamic Boarding School

Abstract

Islamic boarding schools (Pesantren) are recognized as strongholds of character education, and at Wali Songo Ngabar
Islamic Boarding School, this effort is realized through the 'Love Curriculum' (encompassing obedience, care, and sincerity),
which serves as the educational spirit. Intriguingly, this curriculum is required to permeate all disciplines, including Arabic
language learning, which often focuses solely on technical aspects. Therefore, this research aims to comprehensively describe
the strategies and models for implementing the 'Love Curriculum' values and analyze their impact on strengthening students'
character through an in-depth case study. The research employed a qualitative approach using an intrinsic case study method;
data were collected through participatory observation, in-depth interviews with teachers/ustadzah and curriculum managers,
and document analysis of curricula and teaching materials. Key findings indicate that integration proceeds systematically
through two main channels: (1) Content Integration, involving the selection of teaching materials (texts and hiwar) rich in
moral messages, and (2) Pedagogical Integration, involving the adaptation of teaching methods (muhadharah and role
playing) deliberately designed to require students to directly practice the values of care and sincerity. In conclusion, this
implementation successfully transformed Arabic into an effective strategic medium for the internalization and maintenance of
student character.