DOI: 10.58920/art0201614 ISSN: 3123-531X

Analyzing Sound Wave Concepts in the Traditional Rebana Instrument for Local Wisdom–Based Science Learning

Aindana Sulva
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Physics learning on sound waves remains dominated by theoretical explanations, limiting students’ ability to connect concepts with observable phenomena and reducing conceptual understanding. Integrating culturally relevant instruments such as the rebana offers an urgent opportunity to provide concrete and meaningful learning experiences.This study aimed to analyze sound wave concepts embedded in the traditional rebana and evaluate its potential as a local wisdom–based science learning resource. An exploratory qualitative design was employed through observation, interviews, documentation, and acoustic measurement using the Phyphox application. Data were analyzed using the Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña interactive model. Results showed that the rebana produces longitudinal waves through membrane vibration and explicitly demonstrates four key concepts: timbre, amplitude, frequency, and resonance. To ground these findings, baseline data cited from previous acoustic research indicates frequency ranges of 145 to 1251 Hz and sound intensities of 87 to 89 dB for comparable instruments, providing a benchmark for the observable variations in wave amplitude and resonance analyzed in this study. Increased striking energy produced higher amplitude, and structural differences influenced resonance and timbre. These findings confirm that physical structure and vibration energy directly determine acoustic output. Interviews with teachers indicated that conventional instruction relies mainly on textbooks without direct demonstration, whereas the rebana allows students to observe vibration, hear pitch variation, and relate amplitude to striking force, strengthening conceptual understanding and engagement. Therefore, integrating the rebana bridges cultural knowledge and physics learning in modern classrooms, creating meaningful and contextual science learning experiences. In conclusion, the rebana provides measurable acoustic properties and observable vibration phenomena that effectively represent sound wave principles and support its use as a contextual science learning resource.

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