Persiapan Lahan Kering Tradisional Masyarakat Kelurahan Bitauni, Timor Tengah Utara Dalam Perspektif Etnomatematika

Abstract

This study explores traditional dryland preparation practices in Bitauni (North Central Timor) and examines their linkage to ethnomathematics for culturally contextualized mathematics education. The main informant was Mr. Ferdinandus Nesi (70), a retired agricultural extension officer and experienced farmer/livestock breeder since 1995. Using a qualitative, ethnography‑informed design, data were collected through in‑depth interviews, limited observation, and documentation. Thematic analysis reveals key stages: clearing, soil turning with a suan (traditional dibble), waiting for the onset of the rainy season as a temporal marker, and planting‑distance determination using anthropometric units (arm‑to‑chest span) and rope. Identified mathematical ideas include non‑standard measurement, area estimation, number (4–5 seeds per hole), geometric patterns (rows/zig‑zag), and seasonal scheduling (rain calendar). A Namunu ritual and taboos signify cultural‑spiritual meanings. Compared to modern practices (tractor, hoe, standardized units), traditional methods carry richer cultural values. Educationally, these artifacts and procedures offer ethnomathematics resources for teaching measurement, patterns, and simple modeling. Limitations involve a small sample and partly indirect observation; future studies should broaden sampling and conduct standardized empirical measurements.