The Influence of Internal Citizenship Education Building the Character of the Young Generation

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the implementation of civic education in strengthening the attitude of defending the country in elementary school students who are currently facing challenges in the form of a declining sense of nationalism, lack of concern for the social environment, and the negative influence of the development of digital technology. The method used in this research is a literature study with a qualitative approach through the review of various literature relevant to civic education and student character development. The results of the study indicate that the effective implementation of civic education through contextual, interactive, and values-based learning can foster a love of the homeland, discipline, responsibility, and awareness of nation and state in elementary school students. Furthermore, the integration of national defense values into learning and school activities also has a positive impact on the overall development of students' character. However, the success of this implementation is greatly influenced by teacher competence, the learning methods used, and support from the family and community environment. Therefore, ongoing efforts are needed to optimize civic education as a strategic means of strengthening the attitude of defending the country from an early age.