Digital Media-Based Religious Moderation Education: A Wasathiyah Learning Model for Generation Z

Abstract

This study develops a digital media based wasathiyah learning model to strengthen religious moderation education for Generation Z in Indonesia. Using a literature study with a descriptive qualitative approach, the study synthesizes scientific works on wasathiyah principles, Gen Z learning characteristics, digital learning theory, and the dynamics of radicalism in the digital era. The resulting model is structured around three integrated pillars wasathiyah content, digital pedagogy, and digital media technology operationalized through the TPACK framework into five components: (1) learning needs analysis; (2) interactive multimedia design (short videos, infographics, podcasts, gamification); (3) platform selection and delivery (LMS, mobile learning, educational social media); (4) active learning strategies (online discussions, digital case studies, project-based learning, peer learning); and (5) learning analytics based evaluation. Implementation, however, faces concrete challenges: unequal internet bandwidth and device availability that limit access to rich media; fragmented platform use that confuses students and increases dropout risk; educators’ limited ability to design moderation-oriented digital activities beyond basic content sharing; competition with algorithm-driven “viral” content that can amplify sensational or polarizing narratives; the presence of misinformation, anonymous propaganda accounts, and echo chambers that normalize intolerance; student engagement fatigue caused by passive scrolling habits and short attention cycles; and ethical-technical constraints such as data privacy, consent, and content moderation procedures in school environments. To address these barriers, the study recommends tiered infrastructure support (including low-bandwidth and offline-ready content), integrated digital–religious literacy programs, educator upskilling for TPACK-based design, creative “shareable” moderation content that remains academically accountable, the formation of a moderate digital ecosystem with clear governance and reporting mechanisms, and multi-stakeholder partnerships involving schools, families, religious authorities, platforms, and government. Overall, this model is expected to strengthen religious moderation education, reduce vulnerability to radical narratives among