Optimizing Mosque Institutions as Community-Based Education Centers: A Participatory Action Research Approach

Abstract

Mosques play a strategic role not only as places of worship but also as community-based educational centers that contribute to strengthening religious, social, and character values. However, the educational function of mosques has not been fully optimized, resulting in limited community participation in religious learning and empowerment activities. This study aims to analyze the optimization of mosque institutions as community-based education centers through a Participatory Action Research approach. Employing a qualitative method, the study involved fifteen informants comprising mosque administrators, santri, and community leaders who were actively engaged in mosque-based educational activities. Data were collected through participant observation, in-depth interviews, documentation, and field notes. The research instruments included interview guides, observation sheets, documentation records, and reflective field notes. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis assisted by NVivo 12, which facilitated data coding, categorization, theme development, and interpretation of emerging patterns. The findings reveal that the optimization of mosque institutions through Islamic study circles, religious discussions, Qur'anic learning assistance, and regular religious activities significantly enhanced community participation and strengthened religious character, discipline, responsibility, social awareness, and collaborative values among participants. These findings imply that mosques can effectively function as community-based educational centers capable of fostering social capital, enhancing religious literacy, and supporting sustainable character development within Muslim communities.