Tracing Geometry in Bagan Boats: An Ethnomathematical Exploration of Traditional Fishing Gear in the Coastal Community of Barru

Mulyati; Nely Salu Padang; Fitri Arniati; Miftahul Janna

doi:10.55927/mudima.v6i6.73

Authors

Mulyati STKIP YPUP Makassar
Nely Salu Padang Institut Jambatan Bulan
Fitri Arniati Universitas Pendidikan Muhammadiyah Sorong
Miftahul Janna Universitas Negeri Makassar

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55927/mudima.v6i6.73

Keywords:

Ethnomathematics, Geometry, Bagan Boat, Traditional Fishing Gear, Coastal Community of Barru

Abstract

This study aims to explore the geometric elements found in the traditional fishing gear known as the bagan boat, used by the coastal community of Barru, from an ethnomathematical perspective. This study is based on the view that mathematics is not only present in formal forms in the classroom but is also embedded in cultural practices and community life activities. This research employed an exploratory qualitative approach with an ethnomathematical perspective. Data were collected through observation, interviews, documentation, and field notes on the shape, structure, size, frame arrangement, ropes, poles, nets, and other components of the bagang. The results of the study show that the structure of the bagan boat contains various geometric concepts, including parallel lines, perpendicular lines, intersecting lines, angles, triangles, rectangles, symmetry, area, perimeter, diagonals, proportional measurements, scale, and similarity. These findings indicate that the coastal fishing community of Barru has indirectly applied mathematical knowledge in designing, constructing, and using the bagang based on empirical experience and local wisdom. The bagang does not only function as a fishing tool but also represents cultural intelligence that contains mathematical, technical, social, and ecological values. Therefore, the findings of this study have the potential to be integrated into mathematics learning, particularly in geometry, as a contextual learning resource that is closely related to students’ lives and can foster appreciation for local culture.

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