IDEAS: Journal on English Language Teaching and Learning, Linguistics and Literature
Vol. 13 No. 2 (2025): IDEAS: Journal on English Language Teaching and Learning, Linguistics and Lite

A Study of Papuan Children's Preferences for Cross-Cultural Narratives: Understanding Early Literacy Engagement

Winarsih, Sri (Unknown)
Rusli (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
21 Dec 2025

Abstract

This study investigates the narrative literacy preferences of Indigenous Papuan children in the Bevak Pintar Community in Merauke. Recognizing the need for culturally diverse and contextually relevant reading materials, the research employs a descriptive qualitative design using observation, semi-structured interviews, and closed-ended questionnaires. Data were analyzed by classifying narrative types according to themes, character representation, and cultural values. Findings indicate four dominant preferences: (1) Papuan folktales highlighting local wisdom and identity; (2) cross-cultural friendship stories depicting interactions across diverse backgrounds; (3) inspirational global children’s stories presenting resilience and social solidarity; and (4) fantasy narratives blending Papuan mythology with broader imaginative elements. Children favored stories featuring peers with relatable experiences and clear, engaging visual elements. This study contributes novel evidence on Papuan children’s cross-cultural narrative interests and offers implications for developing culturally responsive literacy materials and early-grade curriculum design.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ideas

Publisher

Subject

Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

IDEAS Journal is published twice a year in the months of June and December (P-ISSN 2338-4778 and E-ISSN 2548-4192); it presents articles on English language teaching and learning, linguistics, and literature. The contents include analyses, studies and application of theories, research report, ...