Enhancing Cross-Cultural Understanding through a Web-Based Comparative Folktale Materials in Indonesian as a Foreign Language Learning

Abstract

Teaching Indonesian as a Foreign Language (BIPA) often involves using literary texts, such as folktales, to introduce Indonesian culture. This study aims to develop a web-based enrichment resource featuring comparative studies of Indonesian folktales alongside those from other cultures, such as Japan and Korea. The objective is to create an engaging educational tool that enhances BIPA learning through a cross-cultural approach. The research follows the Research and Development (R&D) model, using the 4D method: Define, Design, Develop, and Disseminate. This article focuses on the first three stages: Define, Design, and Develop. In the Define stage, the scope and objectives of the web-based material were established, with an emphasis on integrating comparative folktales to provide a comprehensive cultural perspective. During the Design stage, the structure and content of the material were created to ensure it was interactive and educationally sound. The Develop stage involved creating and refining the actual web-based resource based on feedback and testing. Data were collected through a literature review of comparative studies on Indonesian-Japanese and Indonesian-Korean folktales.The study demonstrates that web-based materials grounded in comparative folktales can effectively support cross-cultural understanding, facilitating BIPA learners’ exploration of Indonesian culture through their cultural contexts. This approach is expected to enrich the learning experience and foster a deeper cultural appreciation among students.