Enhancing the Social Competence of Christian Religious Education Teachers in Fostering Environmental Awareness among Students at SDN 101812 Namo Tualang Based on Romans 12:18

Abstract

Education in Indonesia is designed to foster holistic development, encompassing not only intellectual growth but also moral, spiritual, social, and environmental responsibility. Within this framework, Christian Religious Education (CRE) plays a distinctive role by guiding students to integrate biblical teachings with daily practices. This study investigates how enhancing the social competence of CRE teachers contributes to fostering environmental awareness among elementary students at SDN 101812 Namo Tualang. The research was guided by the biblical foundation of Romans 12:18, which emphasizes living at peace with others, extended here to harmonious relationships with the natural environment. A qualitative descriptive design was employed, involving one CRE teacher and twenty-five Christian students from upper elementary grades. Data were collected through interviews, classroom and schoolyard observations, and documentation of lesson plans and environmental activities. Data analysis followed Miles and Huberman’s model, supported by triangulation to ensure validity. Findings reveal that the CRE teacher enhanced social competence in three main dimensions: communication, collaboration, and role modeling. Effective communication was achieved by integrating biblical values with ecological themes, encouraging students to see environmental care as a spiritual responsibility. Collaboration was fostered through group projects such as “Green Friday,” promoting teamwork and accountability. Role modeling was demonstrated through the teacher’s consistent environmentally friendly behavior, inspiring students to imitate positive practices. The study concludes that strengthening CRE teachers’ social competence significantly impacts students’ environmental attitudes and behaviors, confirming that biblical integration and teacher modeling are key strategies for cultivating responsible Christian discipleship and ecological stewardship.