Enhancing Cross-Cultural Understanding Through Literature

Abstract

The development of Indonesian language learning for Foreign Speakers (BIPA) requires creativity and innovation in all facets of instruction. One of these components is the learning model employed in the delivery of reading materials. The adoption of a cross-cultural understanding learning model is believed to be advantageous as it imparts comprehension and guidance for communication among individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. Therefore, this study aims to explore the practice of implementing the cross-cultural understanding model in Japanese BIPA classes. Additionally, it seeks to delineate the teaching materials that can support the learning process. This study used a descriptive qualitative method. The data were presented and elucidated in a comprehensive manner. The study was conducted at Nanzan University in June 2023, involving a total of 7 BIPA students. Subsequently, the data were analyzed by referring to theories on BIPA which included techniques like data reduction, data presentation, data verification, and data conclusion. Drawing on the findings, it can be concluded that, firstly, the cross-cultural understanding model can be implemented for intermediate-level BIPA learners. The implementation steps encompass text selection, core activity design, and the evaluation process. Secondly, the selected texts stem from the two cultures which were the Indonesian folk tale "Timun Mas" and the Japanese tale "Momotaro". This study can also serve as a reference for the implementation of BIPA learning processes in various institutions, particularly for intermediate-level Japanese learners.