Strengthening Students’ Spiritual Intelligence through Multicultural-Based Learning in Elementary Schools
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32832/at-tadib.v10i2.22136Keywords:
Spiritual Intelligence, Multicultural Learning, Elementary Education, Empathy, Character Development, IndonesiaAbstract
This study explores the role of multicultural-based learning in strengthening spiritual intelligence among elementary school students at SDN 1 Karanganyar Jember. As classrooms become increasingly diverse, the need to cultivate empathy, moral awareness, and respect for cultural differences has become more urgent.A qualitative case study design was employed using classroom observations, interviews with teachers and students, and documentation analysis. Data were analyzed thematically to identify patterns related to multicultural practices and spiritual development. The findings suggest that multicultural-based learning supports students’ spiritual intelligence through reflective storytelling, culturally inclusive discussions, heterogeneous group collaboration, and consistent teacher modeling. Students showed noticeable growth in compassion, emotional self-awareness, respect for diversity, and ethical reasoning. These spiritual qualities emerged naturally through daily multicultural interactions.The study highlights that spiritual intelligence can be nurtured not only through religious instruction but also through culturally grounded pedagogical practices. Teacher behaviors and collaborative learning environments play a crucial role in shaping students’ spiritual growth. Multicultural-based learning can contribute to students’ spiritual intelligence and should be intentionally integrated into elementary school learning environments.
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