The Regional Leadership Council of the Indonesian Association of Islamic Economists (IAEI) DKI Jakarta collaborated with the Faculty of Economics and Business, Al -Azhar Indonesia (FEB UAI) to host a Research Methodology Workshop, themed “The Application of Research Methodology as a Solution to Challenges in the Islamic Finance Industry in Indonesia,” on Thursday (July 24) at the Amphitheater Hall of Al Azhar University Indonesia.
This workshop was organized to address the challenges posed by the development of the halal industry and Islamic finance, which demand more precise and relevant research, as well as to serve as a means to enhance the research capabilities of lecturers and researchers in conducting data-based studies.
The Dean of FEB UAI, Dr. Kuncoro Hadi, S.T., M.Si., emphasized in his opening remarks the importance of mastering the appropriate research methodology to ensure that research produces impactful outcomes. “The use of software such as SEM-PLS and Fuzzy Logic is highly useful in analyzing complex issues, including in the development of Islamic financial systems,” he stated. In closing, the Dean advised participants to never be satisfied with their current level of knowledge.
Meanwhile, Workshop Committee Chair Rijal Arslan, S.E., M.M., explained that the main objective of this activity was to strengthen academic contributions to the development of Islamic economics in Indonesia. “It is hoped that the gap between academics in conducting research related to Islamic finance can be narrowed,” he said. He also added that a strong research methodology is highly relevant today, given the rapid growth of the halal lifestyle industry in Indonesia.
The workshop featured two main speakers with different yet complementary research approaches. The interactive discussion was moderated by Asri Noer Rahmi, S.E., M.Sh.Ec., a lecturer at the Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB) of UAI.
The first session was presented by Dr. Ayatulloh Michael Musyaffi. The speaker thoroughly discussed the application of the Structural Equation Modeling–Partial Least Square (SEM-PLS) method using SmartPLS 4. Participants were guided in understanding structural models and measurements, as well as hands-on practice in analyzing quantitative data using software.
Dr(Cand). Aditia Ginantaka, S.TP., M.Si from the University of Indonesia led the second workshop session, which focused on qualitative research methodology. The presenter discussed the basic concepts of qualitative research, types of research such as ethnography, data collection techniques, and common challenges faced by field researchers. During the second session, participants were encouraged to understand the importance of meaning quality in research and strategies to reduce bias in data interpretation. Additionally, participants were taught how to use Fuzzy Logic software.
The workshop was conducted interactively. Participants actively asked questions about the application of SEM-PLS and Fuzzy Logic software in greater detail. Participants were highly impressed by the workshop discussions. This activity demonstrates FEB UAI's commitment to equipping its academic community with practical and relevant methodological skills.
