I Putu Ade Andre Payadnya, I Gusti Ayu Putu Arya Wulandari, Kadek Rahayu Puspadewi and Sompob Saelee
Ethnomathematics can help understand math concepts but is challenging in countries like Indonesia and Thailand due to its complexity. This study explores how math educators in…
Abstract
Purpose
Ethnomathematics can help understand math concepts but is challenging in countries like Indonesia and Thailand due to its complexity. This study explores how math educators in these countries view integrating ethnomathematics into teaching. The purpose of this study is to see its importance in helping students understand and apply math concepts in different cultural settings. By looking at educators’ opinions, the study seeks strategies to effectively use ethnomathematics in education.
Design/methodology/approach
The research used a mixed-methods approach with questionnaires and interviews to gather data from 138 Indonesian and 145 Thai educators, including lecturers, teachers and preservice teachers. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics to classify responses. Qualitative data analysis involves reducing, presenting, concluding and validating data to ensure accuracy. This approach aimed to provide a complete understanding of educators’ views on ethnomathematics.
Findings
The quantitative results showed strong support among Indonesian educators (average score 4.77) for integrating cultural elements in math education. Thai educators were slightly less enthusiastic (average score 4.57), but still positive. Interviews revealed unique cross-cultural perspectives and emphasized the need for theoretical and practical applications of ethnomathematics in the classroom. This perspective highlights the importance of social context and interaction in learning and calls for innovative teaching methods that use students’ cultural backgrounds.
Originality/value
This study offers new insights into how Indonesian and Thai educators view ethnomathematics, considering their cultural contexts. It underscores the importance of adapting teaching approaches to fit each country’s cultural characteristics, showing the close link between ethnomathematics and cultural development.
Details
Keywords
I Putu Ade Andre Payadnya, Gusti Ayu Made Arna Putri, I Ketut Suwija, Sompob Saelee and I Gusti Agung Ngurah Trisna Jayantika
Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly used in education, yet its cultural impact, especially in Southeast Asian mathematics education, remains underexplored. This gap is…
Abstract
Purpose
Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly used in education, yet its cultural impact, especially in Southeast Asian mathematics education, remains underexplored. This gap is significant because understanding cultural adaptation is essential for AI tools to effectively enhance learning in diverse classrooms. This study examines how AI can be integrated into mathematics education across Southeast Asia, focusing on specific cultural practices such as communal learning styles, respect for hierarchical structures and the role of local languages, as well as educators’ perspectives.
Design/methodology/approach
A mixed-methods approach was used, combining quantitative data from questionnaires with qualitative insights from interviews with educators across ten Southeast Asian countries. The study included 543 respondents in total with the numbers is varying in each country, targeting high school teachers experienced in using AI in teaching.
Findings
The findings revealed that educators in Singapore are most confident in AI’s adaptability to cultural contexts, whereas those in Myanmar and Laos face challenges due to infrastructure limitations. Interviews highlighted the need to customize AI tools to align with students’ cultural backgrounds, including language preferences and traditional learning practices, for effective implementation. Teacher training and access to technology, especially in rural areas, were also identified as critical factors.
Originality/value
This study addresses a critical gap in understanding AI’s cultural implications in Southeast Asia, providing insights into how cultural values, language and educational practices influence the integration of AI in mathematics education. The findings highlight the need for culturally responsive AI tools and targeted improvements in infrastructure and teacher training for successful implementation.