Ethnomathematics in the VOC Coins: Geometric Patterns in the VOC Coins and Implications in Mathematics Learning

Abstract

Abstract: Ethnomathematics in the field of mathematics has the meaning of a new study that has the potential to be developed into the latest learning innovation that contains a combination of contextual learning and at the same time introduces the culture in Indonesia to students. This research explores the ethnomathematics contained in the coins of the Vereenigde Oost-Indische Compagnie (VOC) from the 17th to the 18th centuries. The primary focus is identifying and analyzing the geometric patterns in the coin's design, including the basic shape, ornamental motifs, and overall composition. The research method used is qualitative descriptive analysis with an ethnomathematical approach, which examines the relationship between mathematics and culture. The study results show that VOC coins contain various geometric concepts such as circles, and geometric transformations. These findings imply the development of culturally based mathematics learning materials, specifically using VOC coins as a real context. Using these historical artifacts is expected to increase students' understanding of geometric concepts and foster appreciation for cultural heritage. This research also contributes to developing ethnomathematics as an innovative and relevant learning approach.