Strengthening character of elementary school students through school culture: An ethnographic approach

Abstract

Elementary school is the best place to prepare for superior human character. This takes into consideration that learners in primary schools are still not much contaminated by the negative traits of the environment. However, in reality, not many elementary schools are able to integrate character education into all school-based development programs. Therefore, this study aims to explore character-strengthening practices in elementary schools. This research uses an ethnographic approach. A sample of one school in Yogyakarta City was determined using purposive sampling techniques with the criteria that the school had implemented character education and gained public trust. Research data were collected using interviews, observation, and documentation techniques. Data analysis with stages of data collection, data reduction, data presentation, and conclusions. Triangulation techniques are used as data validity tests. The findings of this study show that the practice of character strengthening in the sample elementary schools is carried out in 4 ways, namely: school culture, learning process, extracurricular activities, and cooperation with parents/guardians, children's education care communities, and local governments. Thus, it can be concluded that character education will be optimal by conditioning places and involving people who may be met by students to be in line with character education programs. The findings of this study recommend various activities that can strengthen character in elementary school.