The Philosophical Values of Sikka Ikat Weaving from East Nusa Tenggara to Improve the Character Education of Elementary School Students
Keywords:
Sikka ikat weaving, character education, local culture, philosophical values, elementary schoolAbstract
Sikka ikat weaving has rich philosophical values, reflecting cultural identity, social symbolism, and moral values that can be integrated into the character education of elementary school students. This study aims to examine the ‑philosophical values in Sikka ikat weaving motifs—such as the star symbol (Dala Mawarani) which symbolizes wisdom and purity to improve the character education of elementary school students. The method used is a qualitative phenomenological study that examines how the philosophical values of ikat weaving play a role in improving the character education of elementary school students. This study used surveys, observations, and interviews of fourth grade students in elementary schools in East Nusa Tenggara.To investigate students' lived experiences in a culturally diverse learning environment, data were analyzed using an interactive model developed by Miles & Huberman along with phenomenological interpretation.The results of the study indicate that values such as perseverance, togetherness, and moral responsibility are reflected in the weaving process and its motifs. These values can be manifested in the components of character education: honesty, discipline, responsibility, caring, and cooperation.The development of learning modules in elementary schools that integrate woven motifs as teaching media allows students to gain contextual understanding of these values, increasing empathy, self-confidence, and cultural awareness.The study also recommends training for teachers and collaboration with local craftsmen to implement local-based learning. This study contributes to the literature on character education by presenting a contextual approach that is rooted in NTT culture and can be a model for replication in other areas.
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