A qualitative analysis of Imam Shafi`i islamic institution`s curriculum in relation to the self-actualization among Iranian students

Abstract

This study investigates the meaning of self-actualization as a phenomenon among students of the Imam Shafi’e Islamic School (ISS) and how it is perceived by them. It also explores the constructs giving rise to self-actualization among ISS students and the impediments that Students face, this is to ultimately examine the impact of religious curriculum and religiosity on the development of self-actualization and to Islamize the notion of self-actualization. However, Islamization is a secondary purpose which has not been intended directly in this study. This study employed a qualitative research design to collect and analysis data. The study utilized semi-structured interviews for data collection in which graduates of ISS who have teaching experience, were interviewed. Observations and available school documents are also used to support the authenticity of the data collected through interviews. The data analysis underwent a long process known as thematic content analysis.The findings showed that the Imam Shafi’e Islamic School (ISS) is heading toward self-actualization development and its pupils enjoy a high degree of self-actualization. In addition, the notion of hierarchy of needs and the characteristics of SA people are strongly supported theoretically by the holy Quran and prophetic traditions. Most of the characteristics of self-actualized people exist within ISS students and their self-actualization is of a religious nature driven by faith and devotion to Almighty Allah. The results show that a teacher role which manifests the Islamic ethics and faith is considered the most important construct giving rise to self-actualization among students, and the satisfaction of all prerequisite needs i.e. basic needs, safety needs and, social needs as mentioned in the hierarchy of needs theory, is also of crucial importance to achieve a self-actualization level by ISS students. Other constructs like effective curriculum, hidden curriculum, and moral education are also associated with SA development among students of ISS. Some impediments that students face to actualize their potentialities in better way were detected: being dependent to their teachers, impracticality, unofficial institute, heavy curriculum and lack of Murrabi. Furthermore, the results reveal that students of ISS have a positive perception of SA and are striving to internalize the attributes of SA. Some suggestions in respect to SA development are put forward by students which include giving more importance to analytical studies, engaging with society and people, and recruiting more young teachers. Finally, the study recommends more attention given to research on self-actualization, especially among Muslim students to compensate for the existing deficiencies, and for more Western psychological ideas to be examined by Islamic religious students.