Empowering Islamic Religious Education Teachers through AI Technology to Enhance Professionalism and Competence

Abstract

This study explores the empowerment of Islamic Religious Education (IRE) teachers through the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance professionalism and competencies in the digital era. Using a literature review method, the research examines scholarly articles, books, and international reports published within the last decade to identify the opportunities, challenges, and implications of AI integration in education. The findings reveal that AI contributes significantly to improving teaching efficiency, facilitating personalized learning, enriching instructional resources, and supporting teachers’ professional development. However, the study also highlights challenges such as limited digital literacy, inadequate technological infrastructure, and cultural resistance to technology adoption. The discussion emphasizes the need for comprehensive teacher training, supportive educational policies, and ethical integration of AI in alignment with Islamic values. Overall, this study concludes that AI should not be perceived as a substitute for teachers but as a powerful tool for teacher empowerment, enabling IRE educators to adapt to 21st-century learning demands and to foster digitally literate, critical, and morally grounded students.