Integrating Core Islamic Principles With Self-Determination Theory In Online Learning: Fostering Intrinsic Motivation For Meaningful Learning
Abstract
This article examines the integration of core Islamic principles with Self-Determination Theory (SDT) to foster intrinsic motivation and facilitate meaningful learning in online education. In addressing the challenges of learner engagement, the study proposes a framework that synthesizes five Islamic elements of meaningful learning—true knowledge and worldview, natural inclination and God-consciousness, love and humanity, focus on the world for the Hereafter, and purification of the heart—with SDT’s psychological needs of autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Methodologically, the study employed qualitative content analysis using both inductive and deductive thematic analysis, following Braun and Clarke’s six phases to ensure methodological rigor. The corpus consisted of three main components: selected Qur’anic verses, SDT literature, and Islamic education literature. The Lataif Quraniyah method was employed as an interpretive lens to highlight Qur’anic principles of al-Din, Asalib al-Bayan, and Tazkiyah al-Nafs as spiritual and affective foundations of learning. The selected texts were then coded, categorized, and interpreted to identify conceptual relationships between Islamic educational values and SDT constructs. The findings demonstrate that Islamic teachings complement SDT by nurturing autonomy, enhancing competence, and fostering relatedness, thereby promoting deeper learner engagement. The study concludes that this integrated approach supports not only academic success but also moral and spiritual growth, offering culturally responsive insights for educators and curriculum developers in diverse educational contexts
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Publication Date
01 September 2026
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European Publisher
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1st Edition
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1-1
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Accounting and Finance, Business and Management, Communication, Law and Governance
Cite this article as:
Abdul Wahid, F. N., Mohd Burhan, N., & Mohammed Zabidi*, M. (2026). Integrating Core Islamic Principles With Self-Determination Theory In Online Learning: Fostering Intrinsic Motivation For Meaningful Learning. In Y. Naoyuki, A. Peng Hwa, & J. Matthes (Eds.), GLY-Upcoming Volume: Innovating Together: The Convergence of Management, Communication, and The Digital Transformation, vol -. European Proceedings of Social and Behavioural Sciences (pp. 0-0). European Publisher. https://doi.org/10.15405/epsbs.2026.09.41