Transformation of Character Education in Elementary Schools: Development of a Model for Strengthening Character and Identity in the Digital Era

Abstract

This research aims to develop a model of character and identity strengthening education in the digital era through the collaboration of best practices in character education from Indonesia and Japan. The background of the study arises from global challenges such as declining morality, increasing student delinquency, and the influence of digital technology on children's character formation. Indonesia has the Pancasila Student Profile with six character dimensions, while Japan has a strong moral education system through the subject of Doutoku. Both systems serve as the basis for collaboration to formulate a model that is adaptive to contemporary needs. The method used is Research and Development (R&D) with four stages: design, development, review, and revision and evaluation. Data were collected through literature studies, observations, interviews, FGDs, expert validation, and limited trials. The results show differences in philosophy, structure, and practices of character education in the two countries. Indonesia is dynamic and top-down in nature, while Japan is more standardized and reflective. Parental involvement in Indonesia is not yet evenly distributed, whereas in Japan it is systematic through formal communication and school festivals. This study produces a framework for a character education model that emphasizes the operationalization of school philosophy, monitoring of character learning, integration of reflective culture, and consistent parental involvement to strengthen students’ identity in the digital era.