Ethnomathematics: Geometry exploration in Pura's architecture of Taman Nasional Alas Purwo

Abstract

Mathematics has a fairly close relationship with culture. History shows that mathematics emerged as a product of a culture based on human social activities. Integrating mathematics with culture will have an impact on more effective and meaningful learning, especially in Geometry learning which is closely related to everyday life. Alas Purwo National Park is one of the historical heritage sites located in Banyuwangi. This study aims to describe the results of ethnomathematical exploration on historical buildings in Alas Purwo National Park, namely Pura Luhur Giri Salaka. This study uses the method of observation, documentation, and interviews with research instruments in the form of observation sheets and interview guidelines. The results of the study indicate that the architecture of Pura Luhur Giri Salaka reflects some Geometry properties. Gapura building reflects some geometry shape and space such as triangle, rectangle, prism, and pyramid. Besides that, some of Geometry transformation also could be seen building. The rotation and dilation properties can be seen in the bale kulkul building. The translational and reflection properties about y-axis can be seen in the gate of Pura. Furthermore, the results of this study can be used as the source for the development of learning materials in geometry.