PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE OF ISLAMIC RELIGIOUS EDUCATION TEACHERS IN IMPROVING STUDENT LEARNING ACHIEVEMENT AT SMP MUHAMMADIYAH SURAKARTA

Professional competence refers to an individual's ability or expertise in demonstrating meaningful teacher behavior. The professional competence of Islamic Religious Education (IRE) teachers involves their capability to understand the scientific content of their field and to apply structured scientific methods to help students realize their potential. This study aims to explore three aspects: the role of teachers’ professional competence in enhancing student achievement at SMP Muhammadiyah PK Kottabarat Surakarta; the implementation of IRE teachers’ professional competence in improving student achievement; and the impact of this competence on student achievement. This qualitative research adopts a case study approach. Data collection methods include observation, interviews, and documentation, while data analysis follows four stages: data collection, data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The findings reveal: (1) the role of IRE teachers’ professional competence in improving student achievement involves teachers acting as educators, instructors, and mentors; (2) the implementation of professional competence encompasses several aspects: (a) planning, (b) strategy development using methods such as lectures, demonstrations, discussions, assignments, and drills, and (c) evaluation, addressing cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains; and (3) the impact of professional competence includes improvements for both teachers and students. Teachers benefit from increased awareness of their roles after receiving supervision and training, while students experience heightened enthusiasm and engagement, leading to improved performance and interest in Islamic Religious Education.