BRIDGING TRADITIONS AND INNOVATIONS OF ISLAMIC EDUCATION IN THE MODERN ERA

Abstract

Modern Islamic education is an integrated-natured field of strategic study which seeks to bring the long-established traditions of Islamic sciences into harmony with the demands and possibilities of the modern world and with each other. Yet, regardless of various progress in Islamic education, the gap continues on the foundations of traditional Islamic teachings harmonising with the modern educational system. This study aims to review approaches to combining traditional and innovative aspects of Islamic education in the modern era. This is a cross-sectional study that uses part of the content analysis, which, as a review, is a qualitative method to describe and identify traits of an event. This approach lends itself to communications studies and is useful for the analysis of trends and patterns. The content analysis presents the five (5) potential “bridges” or key areas of exploration that connect Islamic education with modern ideas, specifically: (a) technology integration in Islamic education; (b) modern interpretations of Islamic teachings; (c) Islamic education and global citizenship; (d) innovation in Islamic educational institutions; and (e) Islamic education and lifelong learning. In conclusion, exploring these five themes can convey a well-rounded overview of the complex, constantly evolving state of Islamic education in the 21st century. Future research on Islamic education may target aspects that require dire attention.