The Role of the An-Nur Islamic Boarding School Environment in Shaping Students’ Social Behavior

Abstract

This study examines the role of the environment of the An-Nur Islamic Boarding School in shaping the social behavior of MTs Darussalam Kemiri students. Previous research has discussed character education through habituation, example, peer interaction, and institutional culture of the pesantren, but the relationship of these elements in the daily social experience of students in madrassas integrated with pesantren is still limited. This study aims to analyze the interconnectedness of these various elements and the challenges in the formation of social behavior. The research uses a qualitative approach with a case study design. Data were collected through interviews with seven informants, consisting of one madrasah head, three teachers, and three students, as well as observation and documentation. Data analysis included data condensation, data presentation, and conclusion drawn, with triangulation of sources and methods to strengthen the credibility of the data. The results of the study show that students' social behavior develops through regular habituation, educator example, peer interaction, collective activities, responsibility sharing, and continuous guidance. The process encourages cooperation, mutual help, discipline, responsibility, care, respect, and adaptability. However, its formation faces challenges in the form of differences in character and student backgrounds, friendship dynamics, and interpersonal conflicts. Theoretically, this study offers the concept of a social learning ecosystem to explain the interconnectedness of formal education practices, social interaction, and pesantren culture. This concept emphasizes that character education does not only depend on individual programs, but also on consistency between the values taught, the role models of educators, and the daily life practices of students.