Factors Affecting Learning Islamic Science in Developing Countries

Abstract

The main objective of Islamic religious education in Kurdistan schools is to inculcate Islamic teachings and values in Muslim students. However, recent studies indicate that students had interest to learn the subject. In response to this phenomenon, this study was carried out to identify the factors that affect students’ interest in learning Islamic education in schools in Kurdistan. The concern of this study is to identify the factors that influence students’ interest in learning Islamic education. Based on the findings, students’ interest in learning Islamic education was influenced by five major factors; i.e. age, gender, background education, previous experience and family role. All factors are interrelated whereby an initial interest in any individual can be developed or deepened by situational interest that provides meaningful learning experience for each student.