Exploring Ethnomathematics in The Architecture of Traditional Houses of The Alas Tribe in Southeast Aceh

Abstract

The traditional houses of the Alas tribe are a cultural heritage that possesses architectural value and incorporates various mathematical concepts that can be studied from an ethnomathematics perspective. However, studies on ethnomathematical concepts and the cultural meanings embedded in the structure and ornamentation of the Alas Tribe’s Traditional House remain limited. Therefore, this study aims to explore these ethnomathematical concepts and describe the cultural meanings found in the Alas Tribe’s Traditional House in Southeast Aceh Regency. This study employs a qualitative approach with an ethnographic design. Data were collected through observation, semi-structured interviews with traditional leaders and traditional house managers, and documentation. Data analysis was conducted using the Miles and Huberman model, which includes data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. The results of the study indicate that the traditional houses of the Alas tribe incorporate various mathematical concepts in the form of plane figures—namely, triangles, squares, rectangles, circles, and rhombuses—as well as three-dimensional figures such as cuboids, octahedrons, and spheres. Additionally, geometric transformation concepts—including translation, reflection, and repeating patterns—were identified in the various ornaments of the traditional houses. Interview results indicate that each part of the traditional house not only serves a structural function but also carries philosophical meanings that reflect the values of togetherness, mutual cooperation, local wisdom, and the cultural identity of the Alas tribe. This study contributes to enriching the field of ethnomathematics, particularly regarding the traditional houses of the Alas tribe, and can be utilized as a source for context-based mathematics learning rooted in local culture.