Applying Ethnomathematics in Learning Mathematics for Middle School Students

Background : Mathematics is a scientific field inherently intertwined with everyday life. Nevertheless, the conventional approach to teaching math has been largely theoretical and detached from real-world situations, leading to challenges for students in comprehending mathematical concepts. Objectives : This study aims to determine how ethnomathematics influences students’ understanding of learning mathematics for linear equations material. Design : The study used a problem-based learning model with contextual characteristics. The research method was descriptive and qualitative by analyzing students’ activities. Setting and Participants : A total of 27 junior high school students from Medan, Indonesia, were involved in this research. Data collection and analysis : The data for analysis was obtained from student worksheets and observations of student activities conducted by the teacher. Results : The results indicate that: 1) Students could assume variables correctly, 2) Students could make mathematical models or equations correctly based on students understanding, which they saw directly from the illustration, 3) At the