Innovation of the Yellow Book Reading Extracurricular Program in Improving the Quality of Islamic Religious Education

Abstract

Islamic Religious Education (PAI) at the elementary school level is often faced with the challenge of a dichotomy between mastery of textual theory and the application of in-depth religious understanding. This phenomenon encourages the need for pedagogical breakthroughs outside of formal school hours. This study aims to analyze in-depth the innovation of the extracurricular book reading program in improving the quality of PAI at MI Azharul Ulum 2 Brongkal, Pagelaran, Malang. Using a qualitative method with a case study design, data collection was conducted through in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and documentation. Data analysis applied a model of condensation, presentation, and verification of data, accompanied by checking validity through triangulation. The results indicate that this innovation is realized through three pillars: simplification of the tiered yellow book-based curriculum, the implementation of a hybrid method (a combination of sorogan and interactive games), and the habituation of morning literacy. This program is able to significantly improve the ability to read bare Arabic symbols while strengthening students' critical religious reasoning. The main finding is that the integration of Islamic boarding school traditions into the formal madrasah system through structured extracurricular activities can be a prototype for strengthening the quality of basic Islamic education.