Changes In Pupils’ Behaviour Through Character-Building Programmes In Primary Schools: An Analysis of Discipline, Responsibility, Religiosity and Politeness

Abstract

The development of character in primary school pupils requires an ongoing process through
consistent experiences and habit-forming activities. Character-building programmes are one
of the strategies schools use to help pupils internalise positive values so that these develop
into part of their everyday behaviour. This study aims to describe the implementation of
character-building programmes and to analyse changes in pupils’ behaviour in terms of
discipline, responsibility, religious devotion and politeness. The study employed a descriptive
qualitative approach and was conducted at the Sawentar 04 State Primary School. Data were
collected through observation, interviews with the headteacher and class teachers, and
documentation. Data analysis was carried out through the stages of data reduction, data
presentation, and drawing conclusions. The results of the study indicate that the character-
building programme was implemented through ‘Pagi Ceria’ (Cheerful Mornings), religious
practices, line-up activities, class contracts, the practice of asking for permission, cleanliness
activities, the awarding of rewards and educational consequences, as well as character-
based extracurricular activities. The consistent implementation of the programme
demonstrated positive developments in pupils’ behaviour. A transformation in discipline was
evident in the increased orderliness of pupils in participating in school activities and adhering
to rules. A sense of responsibility developed through an awareness of completing tasks,
looking after personal belongings, and maintaining a clean environment. Religious devotion
was strengthened through the habit of praying and participating in religious activities, whilst
politeness developed through the habit of greeting others, asking for permission, using polite
language, and respecting teachers and peers. The research findings indicate that the
transformation of pupils’ behaviour occurs gradually through a process of habit formation,
role modelling, reinforcement, supervision and environmental support. Thus, a character-
building programme implemented consistently can serve as a strategy for reinforcing positive
behaviour among primary school pupils.