Deradicalization through Religious Moderation: Strategic Frameworks for Fostering Communal Harmony and Social Cohesion

Abstract

This study aims to propose a strategic framework for deradicalization through religious moderation to foster communal harmony and social cohesion. The growing threat of religious radicalism disrupts social stability and challenges inclusive community dynamics. This research employs a qualitative approach using a multi-site case study design to gain in-depth contextual insights. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews, observational field notes, and institutional document analysis. The collected data were analyzed using thematic analysis alongside interactive data condensation and coding techniques. Integrating Cooperative Learning and Problem-Based Learning fundamentally transforms Islamic Religious Education from passive text memorization into an active, meaningful experience that cultivates student character alongside critical thinking. The primary strength and scientific contribution of this paper lie in offering a novel conceptual framework that demonstrates how combining collaborative dynamics with authentic problem-solving synergistically enhances learning outcomes across cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains, particularly within a pesantren-integrated secondary school environment. Furthermore, this dual-pedagogical strategy nurtures deep empathy and mutual respect among diverse student cohorts. It enables learners to critically dissect radical narratives through guided problem-solving exercises. The collaborative framework encourages reflective dialogue on religious tolerance and moderate values. Future research should empirically evaluate the long-term impact of this integrated framework across diverse socio-religious educational settings.