The Beauty of Mathematics in Indonesian Culture: An Impactful and Meaningful Context in Number Patterns Learning

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Bibliographic Details
Title: The Beauty of Mathematics in Indonesian Culture: An Impactful and Meaningful Context in Number Patterns Learning
Language: English
Authors: Binti Anisaul Khasanah, Rully Charitas Indra Prahmana, Sofwan Adiputra, Mónica Arnal-Palacián
Source: Journal of Research and Advances in Mathematics Education. 2025 10(2):68-80.
Availability: Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta Department of Education. Ahmad Yani Street, Pabelan Kartasura, Surakarta, Central Java, 57162 Indonesia. Tel: +62-271-717417 ext. 2554; e-mail: jramathedu@ums.ac.id; Web site: https://journals2.ums.ac.id/index.php/jramathedu
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 13
Publication Date: 2025
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Descriptors: Mathematics Education, Cultural Influences, Foreign Countries, Folk Culture, Mathematical Concepts, Handicrafts, Art Products, Culturally Relevant Education
Geographic Terms: Indonesia
ISSN: 2503-3697
2541-2590
Abstract: The integration of cultural heritage into mathematics learning remains underexplored, particularly in the context of Indonesian traditional arts. Existing mathematics curricula often overlook the potential of local cultural artifacts to contextualize abstract mathematical concepts. This study addresses this gap by investigating the mathematical structures embedded within Batik Lampung motifs, highlighting their novelty in representing numerical patterns through culturally significant designs. The primary aim of this research is to explore and analyze mathematical pattern concepts--specifically odd and even arithmetic sequences, square numbers, rectangular numbers, and constant sequences--within the "Siger," "Gajah," "Pucuk Rebung," "Sembagi," and "Kapal" motifs of Batik Lampung, while also uncovering their underlying philosophical meanings. Employing a qualitative ethnographic approach, the study collected data through visual documentation, direct observation, semi-structured interviews, and literature review. The findings reveal the presence of arithmetic sequences, square and rectangular number patterns, and constant sequences, each reflecting cultural values such as sustainable growth, balance, perfection, and continuity. These results underscore the potential of Batik Lampung as a meaningful and contextual medium for mathematics instruction. This study contributes to the development of culturally responsive teaching strategies aimed at enhancing students' mathematical understanding and motivation through the incorporation of local cultural heritage.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2025
Accession Number: EJ1480710
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:The integration of cultural heritage into mathematics learning remains underexplored, particularly in the context of Indonesian traditional arts. Existing mathematics curricula often overlook the potential of local cultural artifacts to contextualize abstract mathematical concepts. This study addresses this gap by investigating the mathematical structures embedded within Batik Lampung motifs, highlighting their novelty in representing numerical patterns through culturally significant designs. The primary aim of this research is to explore and analyze mathematical pattern concepts--specifically odd and even arithmetic sequences, square numbers, rectangular numbers, and constant sequences--within the "Siger," "Gajah," "Pucuk Rebung," "Sembagi," and "Kapal" motifs of Batik Lampung, while also uncovering their underlying philosophical meanings. Employing a qualitative ethnographic approach, the study collected data through visual documentation, direct observation, semi-structured interviews, and literature review. The findings reveal the presence of arithmetic sequences, square and rectangular number patterns, and constant sequences, each reflecting cultural values such as sustainable growth, balance, perfection, and continuity. These results underscore the potential of Batik Lampung as a meaningful and contextual medium for mathematics instruction. This study contributes to the development of culturally responsive teaching strategies aimed at enhancing students' mathematical understanding and motivation through the incorporation of local cultural heritage.
ISSN:2503-3697
2541-2590