Efektivitas Kebijakan Kelas Bilingual dalam Penguatan Public Speaking dan Karakter Religius Peserta Didik di MTs Islamiyah Malo

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of bilingual class policy in strengthening students’ public speaking skills and religious character at MTs Islamiyah Malo. The bilingual class program was implemented as an effort to improve students’ foreign language competencies, particularly in English and Arabic, while simultaneously developing religious character through polite and Islamic-based communication habits. This research employed a quantitative approach with a descriptive correlational method. Data were collected through questionnaires, observations, interviews, and documentation. The participants of this study were students of MTs Islamiyah Malo who joined the bilingual class program. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques to determine the influence of bilingual class policy on students’ public speaking skills and religious character. The findings revealed that the bilingual class policy at MTs Islamiyah Malo was effective in improving students’ public speaking abilities. This was indicated by the increase in students’ self-confidence in speaking in public, their ability to express opinions using foreign languages, and their interpersonal communication skills. Furthermore, the bilingual program also contributed to strengthening students’ religious character through the habituation of discipline, responsibility, politeness, and the use of Islamic expressions in daily learning activities. Supporting factors of the program included school support, teacher competence, a conducive learning environment, and continuous language practice. Therefore, the bilingual class policy at MTs Islamiyah Malo can be considered effective in enhancing students’ public speaking skills while also shaping their religious character.