OMEGA: Jurnal Keilmuan Pendidikan Matematika
Vol. 5 No. 2 (2026): OMEGA: Jurnal Keilmuan Pendidikan Matematika

Ethnomathematics: Uncovering Mathematical Patterns in the Barter Tradition of Tempu at the KAMU Market

Ulfa Annisa Lubis (Universitas Alwashliyah Medan)
Israq Maharani (Universitas Alwashliyah Medan)
Jihan Hidayah Putri (Universitas Alwashliyah Medan)



Article Info

Publish Date
29 May 2026

Abstract

Ethnomathematics is a field of study that examines the relationship between culture and mathematics. This research aims to uncover the mathematical patterns found in the barter tradition using Tempu as a medium of exchange at the KAMU Market. The method used is qualitative research with an ethnographic approach. Data were collected through direct observation, interviews, and documentation. The results show that, physically, all Tempu units have a uniform shape and size with a mutually agreed standard exchange value, where one piece of Tempu is worth Rp2,000.00. In its transactional practices, various implicit mathematical applications were found, namely basic multiplication operations, concepts of comparison and ratio, as well as an understanding of units and value standardization. This mathematical knowledge is formed from local wisdom and has become a part of the community's daily life without being consciously recognized as formal mathematics. The conclusion of this study is that the Tempu barter tradition contains rich ethnomathematical values and can be used as a contextual source for learning mathematics while preserving local culture.  

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jkpm

Publisher

Subject

Mathematics

Description

OMEGA: Jurnal Keilmuan Pendidikan Matematika adalah jurnal yang memuat hasil-hasil penelitian dan pembahasan di bidang pendidikan matematika yang meliputi pendidikan dan pengajaran, strategi pembelajaran, kurikulum, media pengajaran, metode pembelajaran, teknik pembelajaran. Jurnal ini diterbitkan ...