Islamic Education Learning Methods: A Hybrid Systematic Literature Review and Bibliometric Analysis
Abstract
In response to the challenges of digitalisation, the spread of disinformation, and the need for religious moderation, this study examines the scientific landscape and contemporary trends in Islamic Religious Education (IRE) teaching methods to chart the direction of future research. A hybrid approach comprising a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) and bibliometric analysis based on the PRISMA guidelines was applied to examine the Scopus database up to 17 January 2026. From a keyword-based screening process using the term "Islamic education learning methods", journal articles, and English abstracts, 697 relevant studies were identified and subsequently visualised using the VOSviewer application. The macro-mapping results show an expansive growth curve in publications over the last decade, with a sharp acceleration post-2019, peaking in 2025. The geographical distribution map identifies Indonesia as the leading contributor with 550 articles, followed by Malaysia (150 articles) and Iran (62 articles). Other key findings reveal a shift in the pedagogical orientation of Islamic Education (PAI), moving away from conventional-traditional pesantren methods such as sorogan and bandongan towards the use of cutting-edge digital tools such as blended learning, reflective models, and STEMQ-based digital flipbooks as well as active learning strategies based on collaboration and social project-based learning informed by fiqh al-ijtima’iyah. The conclusion of this research affirms that studies on PAI learning retain strong global relevance. Moving forward, the reconstruction of instructional strategies must holistically integrate Al-Ghazali’s concept of tarbiyah, digital literacy skills, and civic awareness to foster tolerant character in students within the school environment.
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