Lauje tribal local wisdom as a source of character education: An ethnopedagogical perspective on the inland community of Puse Village

Abstract

This research aims to describe the forms of local wisdom of the Lauje Tribe, identify the character values embedded within them, explain the process of transmitting these values, and analyse their relevance as a source of character education from an ethnopedagogical perspective. The method used this research was qualitative with ethnographic approach. The research was conducted among the Lauje Tribe community in the inland area of Puse Village, Dampal Selatan District, Tolitoli Regency, Central Sulawesi Province. Data were obtained through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation involving traditional leaders, religious leaders, community leaders, and members of the Lauje community. The data were analysed using data of reduction, data of presentation, and drawing conclusions. Data validity was tested through sources and triangulations technique.

The findings reveal that the forms of local wisdom of the Lauje Tribe include the tooth-filing tradition in marriage customs, the Melongkung ceremony after childbirth, mutual cooperation practices, conflict resolution through customary plate fines, gender equality in family economic activities, traditional livelihoods, and the existence of the Rumah Panjang as a community learning center. The character values embedded in these local wisdom practices include religiosity, responsibility, maturity, hard work, independence, cooperation, social care, justice, peace, equality, and a motivation to learn. The transmission of these values occurs through families, customary leaders, religious leaders, and community participation in various social and cultural activities. From an ethnopedagogical perspective, the local wisdom of the Lauje Tribe is highly relevant as a source of character education because it serves as a learning medium that enables younger generations to understand, internalize, and practice moral values through lived experiences and cultural practices passed down across generations.