Symbolic measuring: an exploration of ethnomathematics based on community daily communication
Uba Umbara(a,b*), Wahyudin(c**), Sufyani Prabawanto (c***)

a) School of Postgraduate Studies, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, Jl. Dr. Setia Budi No. 229, Bandung 40154, Indonesia
b) Department of Mathematics Education, STKIP Muhammadiyah Kuningan, Jl. Moertasiah Supomo No. 28B, Kuningan 45511, Indonesia
*uba.bara[at]upmk.ac.id
c) Department of Mathematics Education, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, Jl. Dr. Setia Budi No. 229, Bandung 40154, Indonesia
**wahyudin.mat[at]upi.edu,***sufyani[at]upi.edu

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to show that ethnomathematics has an important role in peoples daily communication. This study discusses the exploration of existing symbolic measuring instruments used by the Cigugur indigenous community in their daily activities. The research uses a phenomenological approach that can strengthen the study of a comprehensive analytical framework in describing experiences experienced by people based on phenomena. Meanwhile, ethnomathematics design adopts four elements consisting of generic questions, initial answers, critical constructs, and specific activities. Research findings show that people are accustomed to using symbolic measuring instruments rather than formal measuring instruments. Through the use of assumptions, researchers describe and demonstrate the relevance of symbolic measuring instruments with formal instruments that are internationally recognized. The results showed that the indigenous communities of Cigugur possessed and applied ethnomathematics in their lives for generations, so it can be concluded that ethnomathematics is part of their lives and cultural roots which are included in the language system in the universal cultural elements.

Keywords: Symbolic measuring, ethnomathematics, daily communication

Topic: Mathematics Education