Implementation Of Human Nature-Based Holistic Education in Student Character Development in Elementary Schools

Rifatul Mahfida, Surayanah Surayanah

Abstract


Elementary school education plays a crucial role in developing students as holistic individuals by integrating individual, social, moral, spiritual, emotional, and intellectual dimensions. This study aimed to describe and analyze the implementation of holistic education based on human nature in developing students’ character. A descriptive qualitative approach was employed at Santa Maria Elementary School, Blitar. Data were collected through classroom observations, interviews with teachers, and documentation, then analyzed using data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings showed that holistic education was implemented through four interconnected dimensions of human nature: individuality, sociality, morality, and religiosity. The individual dimension was developed through differentiated learning that accommodated students’ abilities, learning styles, talents, interests, and identities. The social dimension was fostered through collaborative learning, positive interactions, and the habituation of living in diversity. Moral development was strengthened through behavioral guidance and socio-emotional mentoring, while the religious dimension was realized through tolerance practices and Religious Holiday programs involving students from diverse religious backgrounds. Teachers served as facilitators, character mentors, and emotional supporters, whereas parents acted as collaborative partners in student development. Overall, the implementation of holistic education promoted independent, tolerant, empathetic, and responsible students while strengthening character through the integration of academic, individual, social, moral, and spiritual development.

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References


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