Holistic Education and the Transformation of Islamic Boarding Schools (Pesantren) in ASEAN: An Educational Psychology Perspective
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This systematic literature review (SLR) examines how Islamic boarding schools (pesantren) in ASEAN have undergone transformative change towards a holistic educational model that integrates cognitive, affective, and spiritual domains within the framework of educational psychology. Drawing on PRISMA 2020 protocols, this study analyses articles published between 2018 and 2025 from Scopus and regional databases focusing on holistic Islamic education, character development, and psychological well-being of students in pesantren contexts across Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei, Thailand, and Singapore. Findings reveal three interrelated themes: (1) the integration of spiritual and psychological dimensions in pedagogy; (2) institutional transformation toward inclusive curricula that embrace science and modern skills; and (3) the psychological impact of value-based learning on students’ character, emotional resilience, and academic achievement. The review highlights that pesantren education across ASEAN embodies the principles of holistic education through its balance of religious values and psychological growth. The paper argues that educational psychology provides a conceptual lens to understand how spiritual intelligence, motivation, and social connectedness drive students’ self-actualisation within Islamic education. Recommendations are offered for future research and policy to enhance holistic learning frameworks in Islamic educational institutions throughout Southeast Asia.
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