Enhancing Understanding of Prayer and Worship through the Integrated Reflective Prayer-Worship Method (DIRT): A Classroom Action Research on Third Grade Students of SD Negeri Hatalai

Abstract

This study is motivated by the low level of understanding and participation of third-grade students in the subject matter of prayer and worship in Christian Religious Education (PAK) at SD Negeri Hatalai. This research aims to improve the understanding of third-grade students at SD Negeri Hatalai regarding prayer and worship material in PAK lessons. The research method used is Classroom Action Research (CAR) with two cycles of intervention. This classroom action research involved 10 students and was carried out in two cycles, with the consistent implementation of the DIRT method for 7–8 minutes at the beginning of each lesson. The DIRT method consists of four stages: heart preparation, worship & short scripture, intercessory prayer & commitment, and transition to the core material. Data were collected through comprehension tests, observations, and interviews. The results showed a significant increase in the students’ average comprehension scores, from 58 (41% mastery) in the pre-cycle to 81 (86% mastery) in the second cycle. In addition, there were positive behavioral changes, including increased active participation, more personal meaning in prayer, and respectful attitudes during worship. The main factors contributing to success were consistent implementation, contextualization of the material, and active student participation. These findings confirm that the DIRT method is effective in building spiritual foundations and Christian character from an early age. This study recommends the integration of reflective prayer and worship as a routine in PAK lessons at elementary schools and suggests further research in broader contexts to assess the sustainability and replicability of the DIRT model.