Ethnomathematics Exploration of the Toraja Tribe Tongkonan House's Traditional Carving

Abstract

This study investigates the mathematical ideas that are carved on the traditional tongkonan house of the Toraja tribe in Indonesia. This research is ethnographic and uses an ethnomathematical research model. Observational methods and in-depth interviews were employed throughout the data collection process, while ethnographic, domain, and taxonomic approaches were utilized during the data analysis process. The findings of this research indicate that the carving patterns found in this traditional house contain mathematical objects and concepts that are appropriate for use as a medium for learning mathematics in educational settings such as schools. The following mathematical ideas can be found embedded within these motifs: parallel lines, perpendicular lines, curved lines, rhombuses, conceptual congruence, symmetry, horizontal translation, arcs, areas of segments, squares, rectangles, and triangles. Measurement, estimation, and approximation have been identified as mathematical practices that were utilized in the process of making these engravings. Estimation and approximation are performed through the use of guesses that are still approximative and do not make use of standard mathematical principles, whereas measurement activities are carried out with standardized measuring equipment such as a ruler.