Vol. 1 No. 1 (2026): BELANTARA: Journal of Theory and Practice in Primary Education

BELANTARA: Journal of Theory and Practice in Primary Education is a scholarly journal dedicated to the development of theory and practice in primary education. The journal serves as an academic platform for researchers, lecturers, teachers, and education practitioners to publish research findings, conceptual studies, and innovative learning practices relevant to the context of primary education. BELANTARA features articles addressing various strategic issues, including reading literacy, students’ social-emotional development, character education, innovative learning models, and the integration of technology to enhance the quality of teaching and learning in primary schools. All submitted manuscripts undergo a rigorous peer-review process to ensure academic quality, originality, and meaningful contributions to the advancement of knowledge and practice in primary education.

We would like to express our sincere appreciation and gratitude to the authors who have contributed to this issue. The published articles cover significant topics in primary education, including “Strategies for Improving Reading Literacy among Primary School Students” by Yulia Kurniawati, which examines strategies for enhancing reading literacy; “Social-Emotional Development of Primary School Students in Thematic Learning” by Bambang Wahrudin, which discusses social-emotional development in thematic learning; “Utilizing Gamification Applications to Improve Students' Critical Thinking Skills” by Auliyaur Rokhim, which explores the use of gamification to foster critical thinking skills; “Learning Model Based on Religious Activities in Shaping Students' Religious Character” by M. Munif, which highlights a religious activity-based learning model; as well as a study on “Character Development of Students in the Elementary School Environment,” emphasizing the importance of character building within the primary school setting. The contributions of these authors are expected to enrich the body of knowledge and provide practical implications for improving the quality of primary education.