Implementation Of Baḥsul Masā’il In Developing College Students' Critical Thinking Skills Through Science Education At Pesantren

Abstract

This study investigates the implementation of Baḥsul Masā’il as a pedagogical model for enhancing critical thinking skills among university students in Islamic boarding school-based higher education. Through a qualitative research design conducted at Islamic University of Tribakti Lirboyo Kediri, Pesantren Sunan Drajat Institute of Lamongan, and Al Fithrah Institute Surabaya, the study explores how traditional Islamic deliberative practices can be integrated with science education to foster analytical reasoning, ethical judgment, and epistemological integration. Findings reveal that Baḥsul Masā’il, when applied in dialogical, contextual, and interdisciplinary ways, supports students in interpreting classical texts, evaluating arguments, and synthesizing religious knowledge with scientific inquiry. The research identifies key enabling factors such as the presence of knowledgeable facilitators and access to classical and scientific texts, alongside constraints like time limitations and low scientific literacy. Theoretically, Baḥsul Masā’il is shown to embody the principles of Islamic rational inquiry and supports holistic learning aligned with UNESCO’s Four Pillars of Education. As a result, the study offers a culturally rooted yet globally relevant pedagogical framework that contributes to the ongoing development of both the science of education and Islamic educational praxis.