Concept of Implementing Folktales in Indonesian Language Learning for the Development of The Nation's Democratic Spirit

Abstract

The background of this research is that education plays a role in shaping democratic citizens. As part of the country’s cultural wealth, folklore contains moral, social, and humanitarian principles that align with democracy. However, in the teaching of the Indonesian language in schools, folklore is often studied only in a literary context, without considering its meaning in the context of the nation. The aim of this research is to investigate the idea of applying folklore in Indonesian language learning as a way to foster the spirit of national democracy. This study uses a descriptive qualitative approach and collects data through literature studies, content analysis of Nusantara folklore texts, and analysis of the implementation of the Indonesian Language Lesson Plan (RPP). Research shows that incorporating folklore into Indonesian language lessons can enhance students' abilities to read, think critically, and communicate, in addition to instilling democratic values such as tolerance, responsibility, unity, and appreciation of diversity. A study indicates that reading, discussion, and creative writing activities using folklore successfully increase the spirit of democracy in the classroom. The study found that folklore can be used strategically to teach Indonesian. This can be done using a contextual and character-based approach. In other words, to support the development of literate, cultured, and democratic students, educators must create learning models that integrate cultural and linguistic principles.