The Role of Christian Religious Education and Character Building (PAK-BP) Teachers in Fostering Learning Interest Among Vocational High School (SMK) Students

Abstract

This research is motivated by the importance of the role of teachers of Christian Religious Education and Ethics (PAK-BP) in arousing students' interest in learning as one of the factors that affect the success of the learning process. This research aims to describe the duties of teachers of Christian Religious Education and Ethics (PAK-BP) in arousing students' interest in learning and identify strategies used by teachers of Christian Religious Education and Ethics (PAK-BP) in arousing students' interest in learning at SMK Negeri 2 Pulang Pisau. The type of research used is qualitative research with a descriptive approach. Data collection techniques use observation, interviews, and documentation. The key informants are teachers of Christian Religious Education and Ethics, as well as 10 students of SMK Negeri 2 Pulang Pisau from grades X, XI, and XII. Data analysis is carried out through the stages of data collection, data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawn. The validity of the data was obtained through source triangulation, technical triangulation, and member check. Based on the research conducted, the results were obtained that: (1) Christian Religious Education and Ethics teachers at SMK Negeri 2 Pulang Pisau have carried out their duties well as educators, teachers, supervisors, motivators, facilitators, and role models in fostering students' interest in learning through providing motivation, attention, guidance, and example; (2) the implementation of teachers' duties is carried out through interactive, communicative, and student-centered learning by providing opportunities to ask questions, discuss, express opinions, and create a comfortable and fun learning atmosphere; and (3) strategies used by teachers in arousing students' interest in learning include the use of discussion methods, questions and answers, presentations, group work, the use of learning media such as PowerPoint and learning videos, giving praise and appreciation to active students, and connecting learning materials with students' daily lives.