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ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue XXX December 2025 | Special Issue
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The Use of the Relaxed and Fun Memorization Method (HaSS) in
Enhancing Children's Memorization of Common Surahs
Mohd Shafiee Hamzah
1*
, Kasimah Kamaruddin
1
, Fatimah Zaharah Ismail
1
, Muhammad Ilmam Mohd
Zaki
1
, Aqilah Dayana Nor Adami
1
, Wan Norkhamisah Wan Mohamad
1
& Noorsafuan Che Noh
2
1
Faculty of Islamic Contemporary Studies (FKI), University Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA), Gong
Badak Campus,21300 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
2
Research Institute for Islamic Products and Malay Civilization (INSPIRE), University Sultan Zainal
Abidin (UniSZA), Gong Badak Campus,21300 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
*
Corresponding Author
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2025.930000038
Received: 10 December 2025; Accepted: 16 December 2025; Published: 26 December 2025
ABSTRACT
Memorizing the Quran during childhood is a crucial foundation in building a Muslim's identity. However,
traditional approaches that are overly rigid and centered on rote memorization often fail to spark children's
interest and engagement. The Relaxed and Fun Memorization Method (HaSS) is an innovative technique based
on the integration of audio, visual, kinesthetic, and interactive game elements. This study aims to evaluate the
effectiveness of the HaSS approach in improving children's mastery of common surahs. This quasi-experimental
study uses the Memorization Assessment Scale and the Learning Motivation Scale, with data analysis conducted
through descriptive statistics to assess the impact of the HaSS intervention on the performance and motivation
of children aged 5 to 10 at Pusat Ngaji Nurani, Kuala Terengganu. The results show significant improvements
in memorization performance, children's intrinsic motivation, social interaction, and mastery of tajwid.
Additionally, this approach reduces learning stress and demonstrates flexibility in meeting individual learning
needs. The study confirms that multimedia-based approaches like HaSS have the potential to enhance early
Islamic education curricula for children.
Keywords: Quran Memorization, Learning Motivation, Relaxed and Fun Memorization (HaSS)
INTRODUCTION
Early childhood education is a critical phase in shaping an individual's foundational values, morals, and
knowledge. For Muslims, mastering Quran memorization from a young age is a priority recognized in various
educational traditions. However, a significant challenge lies in fostering children's interest in memorizing
common surahs. The cognitive and emotional needs of children, which thrive on enjoyable learning experiences,
often clash with traditional rigid and teacher-centered memorization methods.
In this context, the innovative Relaxed and Fun Memorization Method (HaSS) emerges as a response to these
needs. This method introduces a more contemporary approach to Islamic education, creating a child-centered,
relaxed, and enjoyable learning experience. Leveraging modern learning theories, HaSS combines audio, visual,
kinesthetic, and interactive elements to enrich Quran memorization for children.
LITERATURE REVIEW
Quran memorization has long been a cornerstone of Islamic education. Studies by Ismail et al. (2019) show that
children memorize more effectively when the approach aligns with their learning styles. Conversely, overly
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue XXX December 2025 | Special Issue
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mechanical methods that neglect children's emotional aspects lead to decreased motivation and engagement. In
Multimedia Learning, Mayer (2001) states that humans learn more effectively when information is delivered
through multiple sensory channels, such as text, images, and sound—known as the Cognitive Theory of
Multimedia Learning. In early education, using cartoon visuals, audio recitations, and physical activities allows
children to connect diverse types of information, strengthening their memory.
Gardner's Theory of Multiple Intelligences (1983) emphasizes that individuals possess various intelligences
linguistic, musical, kinesthetic, interpersonal, and more. Thus, in early Quran education, strategies that cater to
these intelligences are essential for optimizing learning. Vygotsky's Social Cognitive Theory (1978) further
highlights that children learn best in interactive social contexts. Team activities, games, and social support help
children understand and retain concepts more easily, aligning with HaSS's emphasis on interactivity and
community-based learning.
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
This study employs a quasi-experimental design using the Memorization Assessment Scale and the Learning
Motivation Scale. Data analysis is conducted through descriptive statistics to evaluate the effectiveness of the
HaSS method in improving children's memorization of common surahs. This approach allows researchers to
observe changes in participants' performance before and after the intervention without requiring strict control
groups, making it suitable for early childhood education where flexibility and ethical considerations are
paramount.
Location And Sample
The study was conducted at Pusat Ngaji Nurani in Kuala Terengganu. This location was chosen strategically as
the center follows an Islamic-oriented curriculum with a focus on memorizing common surahs. The sample
consisted of 30 Muslim children aged 5 to 10, selected through purposive sampling to ensure all participants had
a basic Islamic education background and could consistently participate in the memorization program.
Intervention design
The HaSS intervention was conducted over eight consecutive weeks, with four memorization sessions per week.
Each session lasted 30 to 40 minutes, depending on the children's focus and engagement. The intervention was
designed around five main phases: audio listening, rhythmic recitation, interactive visuals, kinesthetic activities,
and reinforcement through games.
Initially, teachers introduced common surahs like Surah Al-Ikhlas, Al-Falaq, and An-Nas through repeated audio
recitations. This aimed to activate children's auditory memory by exposing them to correct tajwid and clear
pronunciation.
Next, recitations were varied in rhythm and speed to stimulate focus and attention. Interactive animated videos,
such as Upin & Ipin and Omar & Hana, were used to link visual elements with the meanings of the recitations.
Kinesthetic activities like role-playing, creative movements, and rhythmic games (e.g., clapping and jumping)
were integrated to help children connect memorization with physical actions.
Finally, reinforcement was achieved through interactive games like "Surah Pistol," where children "shot" a surah
and recited it. This gamification element aimed to sustain motivation and reduce memorization stress.
Data collection instruments
Two instruments were used in this study. The first was the Surah Memorization Assessment Scale, developed
specifically to measure the accuracy and fluency of participants' memorization. This scale evaluated aspects such
as pronunciation, memorization completeness, adherence to tajwid rules, and reading fluency. The total score
was 100%, with marks allocated as shown in Table 1 below:
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
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Table 1: Surah Memorization Assessment Scale
The second instrument was the Learning Motivation Scale, adapted from Deci and Ryan's Intrinsic Motivation
Inventory (1985). This scale measured children's enjoyment, effort, subjective value of learning activities, and
perceived stress levels, as shown in Table 2:
Table 2: Learning Motivation Scale
data analysis method
Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics to examine significant differences between pre- and
post-intervention scores. This analysis allowed researchers to determine whether changes in children's
memorization performance and motivation resulted from the HaSS method.
FINDINGS AND DISCUSSION
Improvement in memorization performance
Data analysis revealed a significant improvement in memorization performance after implementing the HaSS
method. The average memorization score rose from 45% pre-intervention to 87% post-intervention. This
demonstrates that strategies like audio repetition, rhythmic recitation, and memorization games positively impact
children's ability to recall and correctly pronounce common surahs. The improvement was not limited to
mechanical memorization but also included better mastery of tajwid and articulation. These findings support
Mayer's (2001) principle that activating auditory channels and creative repetition accelerates long-term memory
retention.
Increased motivation and interest in learning
Beyond memorization, the study also showed a marked increase in children's motivation. Visual elements like
Islamic cartoons, interactive role-playing, and games transformed memorization from a tedious task into an
| Criteria | Description | Maximum Marks |
|---------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------
----------|
| 1. Pronunciation | Evaluates accuracy in pronouncing letters, diacritics, and
articulation points. | 30% |
| 2. Memorization Completeness | Evaluates whether verses are recited completely
without omissions, additions, or misordering. | 30% |
| 3. Adherence to Tajwid Rules | Evaluates compliance with tajwid rules like idgham, ikhfa',
iqlab, mad, ghunnah, etc. | 20% |
| 4. Reading Fluency | Evaluates smoothness of recitation without frequent pauses or
stuttering. | 20% |
| Criteria | Description | Maximum Marks |
|---------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------
----------|
| 1. Enjoyment/Satisfaction | Measures how much children enjoyed the learning activities.
| 30% |
| 2. Effort and Persistence | Evaluates children's determination and diligence throughout
the sessions. | 25% |
| 3. Subjective Value of Activity | Assesses how important, beneficial, or meaningful
children found the activities. | 25% |
| 4. Stress Level | Measures stress, tension, or anxiety experienced during activities. |
20% |
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
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enjoyable experience. Most children eagerly attended weekly sessions, indicating that learning infused with
positive emotions and social engagement strengthens interest and commitment, consistent with Vygotsky's
(1978) findings on the importance of social contexts in education.
Enhanced Sosial Interaction and Collaboration
A key observation was the improvement in social interaction and collaboration among children. Group
memorization, paired role-playing, and interactive games encouraged peer support, reminders, and teamwork.
Faster learners assisted slower ones, with teachers facilitating this collaboration. This peer-to-peer learning not
only fostered social skills but also accelerated memorization through social mechanisms, supporting Vygotsky's
Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) concept.
Reduced Learning Stress and Anxiety
Unlike traditional memorization methods that often induce stress, the HaSS approach created a relaxed,
enjoyable, and pressure-free environment. The absence of punitive measures, an open learning atmosphere, and
game-based assessments reduced anxiety among children. This is crucial, as psychological studies show that
negative emotions like stress hinder long-term memory consolidation. By minimizing pressure, HaSS fosters a
more conducive learning environment for cognitive development.
Better Mastery of Tajwid and Pronunciation
Although HaSS focuses on memorization, repeated audio exposure and guided recitation also improved
children's tajwid and articulation. Teachers corrected pronunciations, and kinesthetic activities like "robot-style"
recitation slowed down readings for technical focus. Observational data showed over 80% of children improved
in pronouncing challenging Arabic letters like 'Ain (ع) and Sod (ص), proving that creative memorization need
not compromise accuracy.
Adaptability and Flexibility in Learning
Lastly, HaSS demonstrated flexibility in catering to individual needs. Teachers modified activities based on
children's responses—e.g., more kinesthetic activities for active learners and more visuals for visual learners.
This aligns with modern differentiated instruction principles, making learning child-centric, flexible, and
inclusive compared to traditional one-size-fits-all approaches.
CONCLUSION
This study confirms that the HaSS method is an innovative and effective approach to enhancing children's
memorization of common surahs. By integrating multimedia elements—audio, visual, kinesthetic, and
interactive—HaSS creates a fun, effective, and child-centered learning experience. Results show significant
improvements in memorization efficiency, intrinsic motivation, social interaction, and tajwid mastery.
Beyond memorization, HaSS fosters a low-stress, emotionally responsive learning environment, crucial for
children aged 5–7, a critical period for cognitive, emotional, and social development. This study proves that
innovation in Quran education not only boosts academic outcomes but also creates meaningful, enjoyable, and
effective learning experiences for young Muslims.
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INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue XXX December 2025 | Special Issue
Page 294
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