IMPLEMENTATION OF IPS LEARNING ON STUDENT CHARACTER FORMATION IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Abstrak

Social Studies plays a vital role in developing students’ character and preparing them to participate responsibly in society. However, the integration of character formation into Social Studies learning at the elementary level remains insufficiently explored in local educational contexts. This study investigates how Social Studies learning contributes to character formation among elementary school students at UPT SPF SDN Gaddong II, Rokan Hulu Regency. Employing a descriptive qualitative design, data were collected through classroom observations, semi-structured interviews, and documentation involving elementary school teachers as key participants. The findings indicate that Social Studies learning contributes to character development by fostering critical, creative, logical, and socially responsive thinking. It also encourages students to understand social phenomena, develop initiative, and demonstrate positive attitudes and responsible behavior. The study contributes contextual evidence that Social Studies can function not only as a source of social knowledge but also as a strategic pedagogical means of strengthening students’ character and preparing them for constructive participation in society.