PENDIDIKAN AQIDAH ANAK USIA DINI MELALUI APLIKASI INTERAKTIF: STUDI KASUS IMPLEMENTASI DAN DAMPAKNYA TERHADAP PEMAHAMAN KONSEP KETUHANAN

Abstract

This study is motivated by the limited research on the effectiveness of interactive digital applications as a primary medium for instilling aqidah (Islamic creed) values in early childhood in Indonesia. In fact, digital media usage significantly influences the development of children's character and foundational faith amidst the tide of globalization. The study aims to analyze how pedagogically designed interactive applications can support children aged 4–6 in understanding fundamental aqidah concepts, particularly the concept of divinity. This research adopts a qualitative approach using an embedded single-case study design conducted at an integrated Islamic kindergarten in Yogyakarta. Participants included 15 children, 8 parents, and 2 teachers selected through purposive sampling based on their active involvement. Data were collected through three months of participatory observation, semi-structured interviews with parents and teachers, and analysis of children's creative outputs using the "draw-and-tell" method. Thematic analysis following Braun & Clarke’s model was employed. Findings reveal that interactive applications incorporating visualization, storytelling, and educational gamification effectively help children transform abstract theological ideas—such as the belief in Allah as the Creator—into concrete and meaningful understanding. The success of these applications is strongly influenced by the active mediation of teachers and parents. This study aligns with Piaget’s cognitive development theory and Vygotsky’s sociocultural learning theory within the context of digital religious education. The implications include theoretical contributions to Islamic digital pedagogy and practical recommendations for developers, educational institutions, and parents.