Madrasah Education Strategies in Facing the Challenges of Extremism and Radicalism: A Case Study in Jordan

Abstract

This study examines the educational strategies implemented by madrassas in Jordan to help them face the challenges of extremism and radicalism. With a qualitative approach and case study design on six madrassas in three different regions of Jordan (Amman, Irbid, and Ma’an), this study explores educational reform efforts in the context of religious moderation policies in Jordan. Data collection was conducted through in-depth interviews, online focused group discussions, virtual classroom observations, and document analysis. The results of the study identified five main strategies developed by madrasas: (1) curriculum and teaching material reform, (2) teacher capacity building, (3) innovative pedagogical approaches, (4) media and digital literacy development, and (5) collaboration with external communities and institutions. The implementation of the strategy shows significant variation between madrassas in urban and rural areas, with urban madrassas showing greater adaptive capacity in integrating comprehensive approaches. This research proposes an integrated model of anti-extremism education that emphasizes the importance of contextualizing Islamic teachings, the development of critical thinking, positive identity building, global citizenship education, and the empowerment of students as agents of change. The findings of the research contribute to the understanding of the role of madrassas in the context of security and peacebuilding, as well as affirm the importance of contextual approaches in the development of anti-radicalism education.