Character Formation through Structured Habituation in an Indonesian Islamic Junior High School: A School Culture Approach

Abstrak

Character education has become a major concern in Islamic education, particularly in developing students’ moral values and daily behavior. This study explores the cultivation of character through structured habituation within the school culture of MTs Al-Khoirot Malang. Using a qualitative case study approach, data were collected through observations, interviews with teachers and students, and documentation of school programs. The findings indicate that systematic habituation integrated into daily routines significantly supports students’ character development. Structured activities such as morning assemblies, uniform inspections, classroom duty schedules, and congregational prayers strengthen discipline and responsibility. Regular religious practices, including duha and dhuhr prayers and daily supplications, enhance students’ religiosity and spiritual awareness. In addition, the implementation of the 5S culture greeting, smiling, polite communication, courtesy, and respect encourages positive social interaction and ethical behavior within the school community. Environmental awareness is also promoted through Friday clean up programs and scheduled classroom duties. The integration of routine activities, religious programs, teacher supervision, and role modeling creates a sustainable character-based school culture supported by consistent reward and discipline systems