Islamic Education in the 21st Century: The Challenges of Globalization and the Urgency of Utilizing Educational Technology

Abstract

The development of globalization and digital technology has brought fundamental changes to the education system, including Islamic education, which requires adaptability without neglecting Islamic normative values. Islamic education in the 21st century faces problems such as the demand for global relevance, gaps in access and technological infrastructure, limitations in the digital competence of educators, and concerns about the erosion of the identity and objectives of Islamic education. This condition emphasizes the urgency of utilizing educational technology that is not only pedagogically effective but also in line with Islamic moral and spiritual values. This study aims to comprehensively examine Islamic education in the 21st century in facing the challenges of globalization and to analyze the urgency and strategic role of educational technology in promoting the advancement of Islamic education. The research uses a qualitative approach with a literature study design through critical and systematic review of relevant scientific literature and policy documents. Data analysis is carried out using interpretive content analysis techniques to identify themes, key concepts, and inter-conceptual relationships. The results of the study show that educational technology plays a strategic role in improving the accessibility, quality, and inclusiveness of Islamic education, strengthening collaborative learning, and supporting the integration of 21st-century competencies with Islamic values. The findings also confirm that educators' digital competencies and institutional policy support are determining factors in the successful integration of educational technology. This research contributes theoretically to enriching the conceptual framework of Islamic education in the digital age and practically provides strategic references for the development of adaptive, valuable, and relevant Islamic education policies and practices in the contemporary context.