Ethnomathematics: The Early Determining Model of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr in Hila Maluku

Abstract

The concept of mathematics comes from the phenomena that exist in the environment, and it has become an essential part of formal education. However, mathematics is still taught in an abstract and rigid language that is disconnected from real-life contexts, particularly those related to society and culture. In short, mathematics education in schools has not integrated cultural context-based mathematics learning. For this reason, this study aims to explore Hila's calendar to determine the first day of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr using mathematical concepts. This is a qualitative study with an ethnographic approach. Data collection used field observations, interviews, and documentation. The results showed that the first day of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr can be determined using the modulo and congruence concepts. Therefore, it can be used as teaching material when teaching arithmetic in the school.