THE INTEGRATION OF ISLAMIC CONCEPT OF KNOWLEDGE (EPISTEMOLOGY) IN SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING AND MATHEMATICS (STEM) COURSES: WHY AND HOW?

Abstract

The integration of knowledge in STEM is an urgent need to ensure the advancement of technology contributes to human wellbeing. Dualism in the education system, especially in higher education, can be seen when spiritual, divine and moral values are marginalized. In order to develop STEM professionals with a balanced personality and competency, there is an urgency for all the curriculum planners and educators in field of STEM to have a comprehensive understanding about the concept of integrated Islamic knowledge. This article attempts to view the concept of integrated Islamic knowledge and its importance. Recommendations are also provided to adopt the concept of integrated Islamic knowledge in teaching STEM courses to achieve the ultimate aim of education which are to recognize and acknowledge Allah as The Creator and also to be His vicegerent in bringing goodness to the world. Through the present work, it is hoped that the integration of Islamic knowledge in the field of STEM especially in higher learning institution will restrict the influence of dualism and secularism from distorting the main aims of education. It is expected that, with the integrated Islamic concept of knowledge, all accomplishment related to STEM will serve human and the environment way better.