Using Sundanese Musical Instrument and Audacity Software to Learn About Sound Waves

Abstract

Integrating local culture into classes can build meaningful experiences for the students. Suling is a musical instrument originating from West Java’s dominant Sundanese culture and can be an alternative learning medium for teaching sound wave subjects. Using technology can facilitate understanding concepts for students. The Audacity software can help students analyze the spectrum and frequency of the sound produced by Suling. This study aimed to investigate the measurement of the frequency and spectrum of Suling with four and six holes and to analyze the potential for integrating local culture and technology in science learning. The type of research was descriptive to provide an overview of a symptom, event, and actual situation. We used a microphone and Audacity on the computer and each musical instrument in Suling. The study’s results showed that spectrum analysis has a similar pattern in Suling four and six holes and almost had similar frequencies. Local culture has the potential to be implemented in science learning, and technology facilitates students’ understanding of concepts. Suling and Audacity can be used as a learning media for a junior high school practicum on a sound wave subject. Keywords: Sundanese Musical, Instrument and Audacity Software, Sound Waves