Integrating Quranic Principles to Enhance Teacher Motivation in Special Needs Vocational Training: Insights from Pastry and Bakery Educators
Keywords:
Motivation, Integration Special Education Program, Quranic values, Pastry and BakeryAbstract
Grounded in the Quranic vision of dignity (karamah), compassion (rahmah), and purposeful labor (‘amal salih), this study explores how faith-based principles shape teacher motivation in vocational education for learners with special needs. Focusing on the Integration Special Education Program (ISEP) pastry and bakery modules in Kelantan, Malaysia, the research examines the interplay between intrinsic and extrinsic motivators through a quantitative survey of 40 special education needs teachers who are teaching in Integration Special Education Program (ISEP). Findings reveal that intrinsic drivers such as joy in teaching, pride in student progress, and a sense of divine purpose were consistently stronger than extrinsic influences like administrative support and professional development opportunities. While teachers valued institutional backing, persistent resource limitations highlighted the need for systemic improvements. The study is guided by the Quranic reminder in Surah Abasa (80:1–3), which underscores the moral imperative of attending to learners with disabilities. By demonstrating how Quranic values foster resilience, ethical responsibility, and sustained professional commitment, the research argues that integrating spiritual principles into vocational pedagogy not only enhances teacher motivation but also advances inclusive, compassionate, and sustainable educational outcomes.
Keywords: Motivation, Integration Special Education Program, Quranic values, Pastry and Bakery
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