The role of The Qur'an courses in understanding The Qur'an and shaping student behaviors (Van case)

Religious education institutions have an important place in the understanding of the messages of the Quran. Quran courses are one of these institutions. In this context, it is important to examine the role of Quran courses in understanding the Qur'an and shaping student behaviours. In the research, the sample group includes 390 students who attend the Quran courses of Edremit, Tusba, İpekyolu, Ercis, Gurpinar and Çaldıran districts, their 25 instructors and 30 parents which are representative of socio-economic and socio-cultural differences. By applying a questionnaire to the students and interviewing the parents and instructors, data has been collected. By analysing these findings, it is understood that the Qur'an courses have an effect on the individual's understanding of the Qur'an, his behaviour in social life, his perception of value, his regular worship and having basic religious knowledge. As a result of the findings, it is found out that according to the opinions of the students, their parents and the instructors, the Qur'an courses have a positive effect on shaping student behaviours but there are shortcomings such as "reading and focusing more on memorizing" due to the course programs. Accordingly, the participants share their opinions and make some suggestions. They state that the courses should aim at shaping students' behaviours, understanding the Quran, teaching the Quranic stories and the lives of the prophets. In accordance with the results and the suggestions, in the education and teaching activities of the Quran courses, it is necessary to use the educational methods, materials and technology used in modern education. It is thought that the study will contribute to the development of the curriculum and educational activities of the Quran courses program. Key Words: Religion education, Religion, Qur'an education, Qur'an course, Understanding the Qur'an.