LOCAL HISTORY EDUCATION IN THE 21ST CENTURY: ENHANCING STUDENTS’ HISTORICAL AWARENESS THROUGH QUESTIONNAIRE RESEARCH

Abstract

This study investigates the role of local history education in enhancing students’ historical awareness, critical thinking, and cultural identity in the 21st-century learning context. Using a quantitative descriptive approach, the research involved 30 senior high school students in Palembang who had been exposed to local history materials within their curriculum. Data were collected through a validated questionnaire consisting of 15 items covering perceptions of local history education, historical awareness, and critical thinking skills. The instrument demonstrated strong reliability with a Cronbach’s Alpha of 0.84. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses, including Independent Samples T-tests, showed significant results across all measured aspects (Sig. = 0.00). Students who learned history through local content displayed higher engagement, deeper historical awareness, and improved analytical skills. The findings emphasize that integrating local history into formal education fosters students’ connection with their cultural roots while promoting reflective and critical historical thinking. This study concludes that local history education serves as an effective pedagogical approach to bridge local heritage and modern education, strengthening students’ identity and historical literacy.