International Journal of Ethno-Sciences and Education Research
Vol. 5 No. 3 (2025): International Journal of Ethno-Sciences and Education Research (IJEER)

Ethnomathematics in Traditional Weaving: The Potential for Contextualizing Geometry Material in Elementary School Learning in West Papua

Jaizul, Alim (Unknown)
Putra, Deva (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Jul 2025

Abstract

The study, entitled "Ethnomathematics in Traditional Weaving: The Potential for Contextualizing Geometry Material in Elementary School Learning in West Papua," aims to explore the potential of local wisdom in the form of traditional Papuan woven motifs as a source for learning geometry in elementary schools. Using an ethnographic approach, researchers documented geometric elements such as symmetry, transformation, and plane shapes in typical motifs such as Tifa zigzags, diamond lattices, spiral ribbons, and arrows. The analysis results show that the woven patterns are rich in triangles, rectangles, trapezoids, parallelograms, and rhombuses with structured reflection, rotation, and translation transformations. Simulations of calculating the area of the motifs provide concrete examples of how geometric concepts can be integrated into student worksheets based on cultural contexts. The responses of elementary school teachers in Manokwari and Fakfak reinforce the finding that mathematics learning that links local motifs is easier for students to understand, while also fostering pride in cultural identity. This approach is in line with the Independent Curriculum, which emphasizes differentiated and local project-based learning. Theoretically, this research supports the ethnomathematics movement as a strategy for decolonizing mathematics education by positioning local knowledge as a legitimate and contextual learning resource. Thus, the application of ethnomathematics elements to Papuan woven motifs not only enriches pedagogical strategies but also serves as a means of cultural preservation in the modern era. This research recommends the development of teaching modules, teacher training, and the integration of local content into Lesson Plans (RPPs) to encourage sustainable implementation in the classroom.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ijeer

Publisher

Subject

Religion Humanities Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Mathematics Transportation Other

Description

Ethno-science is as an attempt "to recast what serves as science to others, their practice of taking care of themselves and their bodies, their botanical knowledge, but also the form of their classification, making connections, etc. Educational research is a systematic attempt to gain a better ...