Strengthening Character Education in the Era of Globalization Through Pesantren Kilat at SDN Sekaran 1

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the role of crash courses in strengthening character education among elementary school students in the era of globalization. Globalization brings both opportunities and challenges, especially in terms of moral degradation and identity crises among the younger generation. For this reason, character education is a very important foundation for building responsible and moral citizens. This qualitative study conducted at SDN Sekaran 1 uses interview and documentation techniques to explore the implementation and impact of intensive Islamic boarding schools on students' behavior and values. The findings indicate that this annual program held during the month of Ramadan is effective in fostering values such as discipline, responsibility, piety, and politeness. Teachers, parents, and religious instructors collaboratively support the program, ensuring it runs smoothly and is integrated into daily learning through thematic instruction and character-based evaluation. The study also highlights how the school has successfully maintained character-building practices beyond the Ramadan period, demonstrating the relevance of religion-based education in addressing modern challenges. This study contributes to the field of education by offering an empirical model of contextual and culturally rooted character education that can be adapted in other elementary school settings, especially amid the ongoing influence of globalization.