At-Ta’dib: Journal of Pesantren Education
Vol. 20 No. 2 (2025): At-Ta'dib: Journal of Pesantren Education

Between Tradition and Modernity: A Qualitative Inquiry into Teachers’ Professional Learning in Pesantren

Muhamad Hafidz Nujud Faiz (Universitas Darussalam Gontor)
Diska Fatima Virgiyanti (Universitas Darussalam Gontor)



Article Info

Publish Date
09 May 2026

Abstract

Islamic boarding schools (pesantren) face the challenge of integrating modern educational approaches while preserving deeply rooted Islamic values and traditions. In this context, teacher professional development becomes essential in bridging the gap between tradition and modernity within pesantren education. Purpose. This study aims to explore teachers’ experiences, challenges, and strategies in developing their professionalism within the pesantren environment amid contemporary educational changes. Method. This research employed a qualitative case study approach. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and document analysis involving teachers in pesantren institutions. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns and meanings emerging from participants’ narratives. Findings. The findings reveal that teacher professional development in pesantren is shaped by three major factors: the integration of traditional Islamic values with modern pedagogical competencies, institutional support through religious and academic activities, and teachers’ adaptive strategies in responding to educational transformation. Teachers developed professionalism through continuous learning, role modeling, collaborative culture, and participation in both formal and informal training programs. Conclusion. This study concludes that professional development in pesantren requires a balanced integration between traditional values and modern educational competencies. Originality. This study offers a contextual understanding of teacher professional development within the unique socio-religious culture of pesantren education.

Copyrights © 2025






Journal Info

Abbrev

tadib

Publisher

Subject

Description

At-Ta’dib; Journal of Pesantren Education is a peer reviewed, open access journal dedicated to advancing scholarly inquiry into pesantren or Islamic boarding school education. The journal aims to provide a global academic platform for critical discussions, empirical studies, and conceptual ...