AL HIKMAH: JOURNAL OF EDUCATION

Vol. 5 No.1 Tahun 2024 | 133 – 144

P ISSN 2723-0058, E ISSN 2775-3697
http://yphn.ac.id/ejournal/index.php/Alhikmah/index

Implementation of Behavioristic Learning Theory in Learning Islamic

Religious Education (PAI) at Labschool Cibubur High School

Doni*1, Umi Kalsum2, Rabiatul Adawiyah Ahmad Rashid4

Institut Ilmu Al-Qur’an (IIQ), Jakarta, Indonesia1,2, Universiti Sains Malaysia,
Malaysia3
doni@mhs.iiq.ac.id1, umi.kalsum@mhs.iiq.ac.id2, radawiah@usm.my3

Abstract
Nowadays there is a phenomenon of moral decadence, namely frequent
cases of bullying, sexual violence, bullying and character crises in the
world of education. Here researchers are interested in how to implement
Behavioristic Learning Theory in Islamic Religious Education Learning at
SMA Labschool Cibubur which aims to shape behavior and hopefully break
moral decadence. This research uses qualitative methods with data
collection techniques of observation, interviews and document study. The
results of this research show that based on Edward Thorndike's
behavioristic theory, known as Connectionism theory, learning is a process
of connection between stimulus and response which leads to changes in
behavior, with readiness to accept changes in behavior (law of Readiness),
given repetition (Law of Exercise) and awarded (Law of Effect), then the
implementation of behaviorist learning theory in Islamic Religious
Education learning from Labschool Cibubur High School activities as well
as in classroom learning, children are evaluated and familiarized with
evaluation activities for the morning prayer, procedures for ablution,
purification, reading the Al-Quran, Tajwid and Makharijul Huruf, helping
parents, how to socialize with the opposite sex, social media etiquette. Also
from familiarization with student organization activities, leadership
training, extracurricular activities, activities to strengthen Wiyata
Mandala insight, 7 basic values of Labschool, 15 cultures of life at school,
and 18 life skills at Labschool.
Keywords: Learning,Behavioristics Learning Theory ,Character, Habituation

Coresponding Author 133

Doni, Umi Kalsum, Rabiatul Adawiyah Ahmad Rashid

A. Introduction

The world of education has always had the biggest challenge in terms of student
character building. Today's educational institutions seem unable to carry out character
education properly and correctly. this is all evidenced by the frequent phenomena of
moral decadence, namely the many cases of bullying. sexual violence. bullying and
character crisis in the world of education today. Whereas education should make students
become more moral, moral, cultured and behave well.
Education can never be separated from the process of learning and learning
activities. Through learning, humans are able to easily understand and adapt to their
surrounding environment. Without learning, humans will be said to be the ones who lose
the most in their lives. Learning is also a manifestation of the efforts made by students to
achieve change, starting from the process of improving the quality and quantity of each
student's personality in order to increase knowledge, skills and thinking power (Murniyati
& Suyadi, 2021, p. h. 178). Discussing problems related to learning and learning, various
figures and theories as well as schools within them have been found, starting from
behaviorism, cognitive theory, constructivism and humanistic theory (Shahbana et al.,
2020).
A learning theory that emphasizes changing and shaping student behavior is
behaviorist learning theory. Behavioristic learning theory is better known as behavioral
theory because this theory assumes that someone is said to have learned if they have
experienced changes in behavior in that individual. Behavioristic learning theory is a
theory that emphasizes the need for observed behavior (Desmita, 2009). According to
Nahar (2016), the concept of behaviorism is (1) focuses on observed learning events as
shown by stimulus and response relationships, (2) involves changes in behavior, (3)
mental processes must be excluded from scientific studies of learning, (4) the laws
governing learning apply to all living things, including humans, (5) living things begin
life as blank slates with no innate behavior, (6) learning results from external events in
the environment. The main characteristic of behavioristic learning theory is that teachers
behave in an authoritarian manner and act as agents of inductrination and propaganda and
as controllers of behavioral input. This is because behavioristic learning theory considers
humans to be passive and everything depends on the stimulus they receive. The intended
target of this learning is to change student behavior in a better direction. (Ismail et al.,
2019).
Behavioristic theory prioritizes measurement, namely the final result that can be
measured, because the measurement is an important thing to see whether changes in
behavior occur or not. Behaviorist learning theory with its stimulus-response relationship

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model positions people who learn as passive individuals. Certain responses or behaviors
using the method of practice, repetition or habituation alone. The emerging behavior will
become stronger if given reinforcement and will disappear if punished. For behaviorist
theorists, the emphasis is on changes in behavior that are experienced in real ways, not
just limited to a person's structuralization (Amsari, 2018). Therefore, behaviorists
emphasize their research on real human behavior in actual events that occur.
Someone is considered to have learned if they can show changes in behavior. The
behaviorist view recognizes the importance of input in the form of stimulus, and output
in the form of response. Behavioristic learning theory emphasizes its study of the
formation of behavior based on the relationship between stimuli and responses that can
be observed and does not relate to awareness or mental construction. Behavioristic
learning theory is in contrast to cognitive theory which states that the learning process is
a mental process that cannot be observed with the naked eye. Behavioristic learning
theory places great emphasis on learning outcomes, namely changes in behavior that can
be observed, measured and assessed concretely (Putrayasa, 2013).
Among the many cases of bullying. sexual violence, bullying and character crisis
in the world of education is in early 2024 a case of student bullying by seniors or seniors
occurred at Binus International School Serpong, South Tangerang. As a result, the victim
suffered many bruises and burns, and had to be hospitalized. It was stated that one of the
bullying incidents occurred on February 2, 2024 (Tria Sutrisna, 2024). Then it was
reported from Tempo.id that the world of Indonesian education not only faces the problem
of lagging quality and inequality, but also violence and even death as happened to the
STIP cadet student who died as a result of being mistreated by his seniors on Friday. May
3, 2024 (Ester Lince Napitupulu, 2024). Another from kompas.com reported a case of
bullying by seniors at SMPN 1 Babelan Bekasi in mid-September 2023.
Behavioristic learning theory is expected to be a solution to the above problems,
because behavioristic learning theory is a theory that focuses more on changing the
behavior of students. According to behavioristic learning theory, learning is the result of
the interaction between stimuli and responses. An individual is considered to have learned
if he can show changes in his behavior. This theory considers that the important thing in
the learning process is the absorption of knowledge in the form of stimuli (stimulus) and
the results in the form of responses and behavior (Mohammad Raihan, 2021, 25). In the
application of behavioristic theory, subjects that are suitable in the formation of student
character are Islamic Religious Education subjects or now in schools referred to as Islamic
Religious Education and Good Manners (PABP) subjects. So in this case, every Islamic
PABP teacher should use behavioristic theory in their learning to produce students with
character.

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Doni, Umi Kalsum, Rabiatul Adawiyah Ahmad Rashid

The above statement is proven by the Islamic Religious Education journal which
concludes by saying that the application of behavioristic learning theory in Islamic
Religious Education learning carried out by Islamic Religious Education teachers at SMA
Negeri 3 Batam results in changes in students' behavior towards a better direction by
giving rewards or awards. Motivation, strengthening memory, tolerance, and also
sanctions to students so that such things are expected to change the behavior of students
(Mohammad Raihan, 2021, 25).
Based on the current facts in the world of education and the results of the above
research on the implementation of behavioristic learning theory in learning Islamic
Religious Education, the author decided to research "Implementation of Behavioristic
Learning Theory in Learning Islamic Religious Education (PAI) at SMA Labschool
Cibubur".

B. Methods

Research methods can be interpreted as a scientific way to get data with specific
purposes and uses. This research uses a qualitative description method with observation
data collection techniques. interviews and documentation studies. Observation is the
initial data collection by making direct observations on the object to be studied. An
interview is a meeting of two people to exchange information and ideas through questions
and answers so that meaning can be constructed on a certain topic. Meanwhile,
documentation is a record of events that have passed and are presented in the form of
writing. pictures or monumental works of a person (Sugiyono, 2016, 3).
The data sources obtained by researchers are primary data sources from the field,
namely obtained through educational informants and students. while secondary data was
obtained from various literature studies that are related to this research, in the form of
journals and books. The steps taken by researchers in collecting data were through
observation, interviews and documentation. The researcher carried out observations using
non-participant techniques, namely the researcher only made direct observations, while
interviews were conducted with several Islamic Religious Education teachers at
Labschool Cibubur High School. Researchers carry out analysis by reducing the data,
then presenting it according to what is available until drawing conclusions.

136 Vol. 5, No. 1, Tahun 2024

 C. Result and Discussion

This research is the Implementation of Behavioristic Learning Theory in Learning

Islamic Religious Education (PAI) conducted at SMA Labschool Cibubur which is
located at Jl. Raya Hankam Labschool Campus No. 15-20 Jatiranggon, Kec.
Jatisampurna, Bekasi City, West Java 17432. Labschool has a vision that is a school that
prepares future leaders who are devoted, have high integrity, strong fighting power, intact
personality, noble character, independent, and have high intellectual abilities. While
Labschool Cibubur High School itself has a focus on the Vision of becoming a champion
school and preparing future leaders who are devoted, uphold the noble values of the
nation, and have a global outlook. The mission of SMA Labschool Cibubur is first to
produce graduates who are pious. Quality, positive character, and global competitiveness.
second, delivering students to succeed in reaching the best universities. third, having
excellence in academics and student affairs. fourth, increasing the professionalism of
educators and education personnel. fifth, creating a challenging and enjoyable learning
environment. sixth, conducting a humanist and holistic inclusive learning process.
seventh, developing the professionalism of educators and education personnel in carrying
out learning. eighth, promoting educators and education personnel who can provide
examples and perform their duties according to their duties. Seventh develop the
professionalism of educators and education personnel in carrying out learning. Eighth
prioritize educators and education personnel who can provide examples and perform their
duties according to the profession. Ninth carry out insightful, future-oriented leadership
and are skilled in professional management. Tenth establish synergistic partnerships with
school stakeholders. Based on the vision and mission of the school, SMA Labschool
Cibubur can be said that it has special attention to the faith, character and morals of
students. It is all proven in the vision and mission of the school.
In this research, we specifically discuss the Implementation of Behavioristic
Learning Theory in Learning Islamic Religious Education (PAI) at SMA Labschool
Cibubur specifically in class 10. In the Big Indonesian Dictionary "Implementation"
means implementation; implementation (KBBI, n.d.). In this case, what is meant by
application is putting into practice a learning theory by paying attention to the elements
of the application. According to several articles quoted by Majid and Suyadi, the elements
of implementation are the existence of a program to be implemented, the existence of
targets who are then expected to benefit from the implementation of the program and the
existence of an implementation process either from individuals or institutions. In
teaching and learning there is a process of educational interaction between teachers and
students which is carried out in the classroom so it is often referred to as a learning

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Doni, Umi Kalsum, Rabiatul Adawiyah Ahmad Rashid

process. In the learning process there are several applications of theory, one of which is
behavioristic learning theory to support the success of developing better behavior.
This view from the behaviorist school considers learning to be an interaction of
stimulus and response (Irham & Wiyani, 2014).This results in changes in student
behavior. This stimulus comes purely from a teacher, while the response comes from the
student. So the success of changes in student behavior can be seen from the extent to
which the teacher provides stimulus to students in the form of learning methods. This
school also considers that learning outcomes are obtained from the formation of visible
behavior. So, it can be concluded that this behavioristic theory makes students tend to be
passive, while a teacher in the learning process must always be active and innovative. The
more actively the teacher provides stimulation both in methods and material, the stronger
the changes in student behavior will be.
In getting used to activities in learning, especially PAI, Edward Thorndike's
behavioristic learning theory has been applied at Labschool Cibubur High School for a
long time, especially in PAI learning. Labschool Cibubur High School has a vision and
mission that pays special attention to the faith, character and morals of students.
According to Thorndike's analysis, known as the Connectionism theory, (Pratama, 2019,
p. p. 41)
The application of behavioristic learning in Islamic Religious Education learning
in classes with Islamic religious subject teachers is by providing teachers with enthusiasm
for learning and motivation to students whose behavior may not be enthusiastic and
motivated to learn. PAI teachers also provide advice on always dressing neatly, showing
personal best in what they say and do and providing stimulation so that students are
interested or interested in Islamic religious lessons. Islamic teachers also provide
sanctions and rewards, which means threats or directives, for example if students cannot
memorize then there will be sanctions, the form of sanctions is of course educational and
has a deterrent effect. Likewise, when students have memorized the Koran, they will be
given rewards, for example being appreciated in front of their friends and given good
grades, because there are several verses that must be memorized for Al-Quran material.
In Islamic learning, behaviorist learning theory is actually more widely used because it is
known more about how we can change students' behavior for the better. Learning Islamic
Religious Education is indeed very appropriate when we use behavioristic learning
theory, the reason is because it places more emphasis on changing attitudes. Almost all
competencies use behavioristic learning theory, starting from aqeedah, namely applying
the correct attitude to students, then also in fiqh, namely how students can apply prayer
correctly, for example in the procedures for funeral prayers. Other aspects also depend
more on behavioristic learning theory. Based on the results of the observations and

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interviews above, the author can conclude that the application of behavioristic learning
theory in Islamic Religious Education learning carried out by the 10th grade Islamic
Religious Education Teacher, Mr. Muh. ALi Fauzi at Labschool Cibubur High School
produces changes in students' behavior for the better and shows a positive attitude. Next
we will look at the results of interviews and observations based on Thorndike's
behavioristic theory.
Learning is a process of connection between stimulus and response which leads
to changes in behavior. Stimulus-response relationship. Thorndike's opinion can be
strengthened by the First (law of Readiness) there is a readiness to accept these changes
in behavior, to prepare to receive the stimulus Labschool Cibubur High School also has
7 Basic Values which children always mention directly with their movements every
morning after praying, namely pious, strong fighting spirit, noble character, intellectual
high, high integrity, complete personality, independent. And students are also introduced
to 15 living cultures at Labschool schools with banner stands and other media. The 15
cultures are Greeting, shaking hands, polite, courteous, greeting, smiling, spiritual,
appreciative, clean, hard working, happy to give, praying for each other, respectful,
punctual, and happy to learn. Apart from that, children are also provided with a hidden
curriculum in the form of 18 life skills at Labschool, namely friendship, curiosity, effort,
organization, problem solving, cooperation, caring, courage, patience, common sense,
pride, flexibility, integrity, responsibility, resourcefulness, initiative, perseverance, and
sense of humor. Of the 15 cultures and 18 life skills at Labschool, all of them are spread
across Mading, Magazines, Standing banners, and daily life. Apart from that, it is also
carried out by coaching and developing the morals of Labschool Cibubur High School
students through student organizations, leadership training, extracurricular activities, and
activities to strengthen Wiyata Mandala insight.
Based on the results of an interview with Mr. Fauzi, a 10th grade Islamic
Religious Education Teacher at Labschool Cibubur High School, he said that it is very
important to prepare students so that they are ready to receive material or stimulation that
will make changes to the students' own behavior. This agrees with Thorndike's theory.
Mr. Fauzi continued by giving an example of preparing students by conditioning the class
before starting learning, such as ensuring students' seats are neat, ensuring clothes are
neat and according to regulations, preparing textbooks and notebooks, storing things that
are not related to learning Islamic religious education. or save things that will interfere
with the learning process, and unite the vision that this learning is very important for them
in navigating life in the future so that they become obedient servants of Allah, dutiful to
their parents and have good morals in society.

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Second (Law of Exercise) is given repetition, based on the results of researchers'

observations in learning Islamic Religious Education and school activities that have
Islamic Religious Education values. So the forms of activities that are carried out
repeatedly include greetings, prayer before studying, Zuhr prayer in congregation, dhikr
and prayer after Zuhur prayer in congregation, tadarus every Thursday morning, saving
good deeds twice a week, and mandatory use of a cap. and the hijab on Fridays, it is
mandatory to wear a cap when studying Islamic Religious Education (PAI), women's
education. celebration of Islamic holidays (PHBI). Apart from these activities, based on
the results of an interview with the 10th grade Islamic Religious Education (PAI) teacher,
namely Mr. Ali Fauzi, he said that Labschool Cibubur High School also in classroom
learning, children are evaluated and familiarized with evaluation activities for the
morning prayer, ablution procedures, purification, reading Al-Quran, Tajwid and
Makharijul Huruf, helping parents, procedures for interacting with the opposite sex,
social media etiquette, and so on. The activities above are inserted among PAI learning
materials in class.
Based on the results of an interview with Mr. Fauzi, the 10th grade Islamic
Religious Education Teacher at Labschool Cibubur High School regarding the law of
training, he said that apart from being familiarized or trained with the activities above,
when children make mistakes they will also be punished by repeating them over and over
again. a kindness with the aim that by getting used to the good the bad will disappear.
Examples of children's mistakes are punished by repeating good things over and over
again, such as when they speak harshly they will be asked to istghfar (ask Allah for
forgiveness) 33 times, when they are late they are punished by writing and memorizing
prayers to avoid being lazy and undisciplined. , and when children cheat on an exam, they
are given a sanction with a zero mark and reported to their parents so they make a
statement not to do it again. Hopefully, with exercises like this, children will be deterred
and won't make any more mistakes in what they say and act.
Third (Law of Effect) namely that the stimulus-response relationship tends to be
strengthened if the consequences are pleasant and tends to be weakened if the
consequences are unsatisfactory. An action that is accompanied by pleasant consequences
tends to be retained and will be repeated next time (Shahbana et al., 2020, p. h. 27). Based
on the results of observations, Labschool Cibubur High School students carry out
activities such as: Greetings to teachers or friends, prayers before studying, zuhur prayers
in congregation, zikir and prayers after zuhur prayers in congregation and others are done
without pressure or have become a tradition that is done without orders from the teacher.
For the stimulus response, Mr. Fauzi said that every teacher at Labschool Cibubur
High School must really care about each student's condition and response attitude. When

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children do good things, teachers are obliged to give appreciation by appreciating them,
praising them and giving good marks and conversely, if children do not do what they
should, they must be called out, understand their condition and find out the cause of the
problem so that the children do not feel blamed. and want to change by themselves, such
as if someone is late, then apart from carrying out educational punishments by writing
verses from the Koran or prayers, they are also invited to discuss and communicate about
the reasons and causes of why they are late, hopefully with that the problem will be
answered with a solution and awareness, as well as other activities such as long hair, tight
pants, short skirts, not doing assignments and activities that violate other rules, so apart
from getting educational punishments, children must also be affirmed and invited to
communicate in solving the problem.
Based on the findings from interviews and observations, the researcher provides
an analysis that the programs and culture that Labschool Cibubur High School has been
implemented following Edward Thorndike's Behavioristic theory, known as
Connectionism theory, so in theory, it can be confirmed that the Behavioristic learning
theory of Islamic Religious Education (PAI) in high school Labschool Cibubur has been
conceptualized and is running very well.

D. Conclusion

From the experiments carried out, Thorndike stated that human learning behavior
is determined by stimuli in the environment so that it can cause a reflex response.
Thorndike concluded that the response to leaving the cage was gradually associated with
a stimulus in a trial and error process. Thorndike's behavioral learning theory,
connectionism, has been applied at Labschool Cibubur High School, especially in PAI
activities, because this theory is felt to be suitable as a reference and support in achieving
the vision and mission goals of Cibubur Labschool High School, which pays special
attention to the faith, character and morals of students. Efforts to apply the theory. This
involves implementing aspects of preparation, providing stimulus as well as exercises and
repetition. The application of Edward Thorndike's behavioristic theory can produce
changes in student behavior for the better in the form of increased motivation, the
realization of discipline, and consistent behavior.

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