Ecotheology-Based Transformation of Islamic Religious Education to Develop Students' Eco-Spiritual Literacy

Abstract

This study investigates the transformation of Islamic Religious Education (IRE) through an ecotheological approach to foster students' eco-spiritual literacy. Environmental degradation and climate change call for educational innovations that integrate ecological awareness with religious and moral values. However, IRE has generally emphasized cognitive and spiritual dimensions while giving limited attention to environmental responsibility as an integral component of Islamic teaching. This study used a qualitative case study design involving the school principal, IRE teachers, the curriculum coordinator, and students selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through indepth interviews, classroom observations, and document analysis, and were analyzed using Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña's interactive model, comprising data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing and verification. The findings show that ecotheology-based IRE transforms the learning process by integrating the principles of tawhid, khalifah fil ardh, amanah, mīzān, and iḥsān into learning objectives, instructional strategies, learning activities, and assessment. This transformation strengthens students' eco-spiritual literacy across five interconnected dimensions: ecological knowledge, ecological awareness, ecological ethics, ecological responsibility, and ecological action. The study also proposes a Transformative Ecotheological Islamic Religious Education Model comprising value internalization, theological reflection, ecological experience, collaborative environmental action, and continuous reflection. The model contributes to the development of IRE by integrating ecotheological values with transformative learning and Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). The findings offer practical guidance for teachers and curriculum developers in designing learning experiences that promote environmental stewardship, spiritual awareness, and sustainable development through Islamic education.