ETHNOMATHEMATICAL EXPLORATION OF TRADITIONAL MAKASSAR CAKES (PAWA CAKES)
Abstract
This study explores the ethnomathematical concepts embedded in the traditional process of making Pawa cake, a cultural heritage from Makassar, Indonesia. Employing a qualitative research method with an ethnographic approach, the study investigates both the geometric concepts and cultural values reflected in this culinary practice. Data were collected through observation, interviews with local cake makers, and visual documentation. The findings reveal that Pawa cake embodies various geometric elements, including circles, squares, cones, and spheres, which can serve as contextual resources for mathematics education. Beyond its mathematical significance, the making of Pawa also illustrates important cultural values such as cooperation, patience, and the preservation of tradition. The communal preparation of the cake, particularly during weddings and cultural ceremonies, highlights its role in strengthening social bonds and maintaining cultural identity. This study contributes to the integration of local wisdom in mathematics learning by offering a contextual and culturally relevant approach, particularly in geometry education.
Penelitian ini bertujuan mengeksplorasi konsep etnomatematika yang terkandung dalam proses pembuatan kue Pawa, salah satu warisan kuliner tradisional khas Makassar. Dengan menggunakan metode penelitian kualitatif dan pendekatan etnografi, penelitian ini menggali unsur geometri serta nilai budaya yang terwujud dalam aktivitas pembuatan kue tersebut. Data diperoleh melalui observasi, wawancara dengan pembuat kue, serta dokumentasi visual berupa foto dan video. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa kue Pawa merepresentasikan konsep-konsep geometri, antara lain lingkaran, persegi, kerucut, dan bola, yang berpotensi dijadikan sumber belajar kontekstual dalam pendidikan matematika. Selain aspek matematis, pembuatan kue Pawa juga memuat nilai-nilai budaya seperti gotong royong, kesabaran, serta pelestarian tradisi. Aktivitas memasak yang dilakukan secara kolektif, terutama dalam acara pernikahan dan kegiatan adat, menegaskan peran kue Pawa dalam memperkuat ikatan sosial dan menjaga identitas budaya masyarakat Makassar. Penelitian ini diharapkan dapat berkontribusi pada pengembangan pembelajaran matematika berbasis budaya, khususnya pada topik geometri.
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