PERSEPSI MAHASISWA DARMASISWA RI 2024/2025 UMM TERHADAP BAHASA DAN BUDAYA JAWA DALAM PEMAHAMAN BAHASA INDONESIA

This study aims to explore the perceptions of international students participating in the Darmasiswa RI 2024/2025 program at Universitas Muhammadiyah Malang toward Javanese language and culture, and how these aspects influence their understanding of the Indonesian language. The background of the study is rooted in the reality that foreign students enrolled in BIPA (Indonesian for Foreign Speakers) programs in regions where local languages such as Javanese are dominant must navigate both the national language and the accompanying cultural practices. This research adopts a qualitative descriptive approach supported by simple quantitative data. Data were collected through a mixed-format questionnaire consisting of yes/no questions, a 5-point Likert scale, and open-ended questions. Five respondents from various countries (Vietnam, Japan, South Korea, and India) were selected as research subjects.

The findings reveal that students’ cross-cultural adaptation follows the three stages of Kim’s (2001) Stress–Adaptation–Growth model. In the stress stage, participants experienced confusion and anxiety due to differences in language use and social norms, particularly the frequent use of Javanese in daily interactions. During the adaptation stage, students began making conscious efforts to adjust, both linguistically and culturally. The growth stage was marked by the development of cultural understanding, improved self-confidence, and more positive attitudes toward the local culture. Student perceptions of these challenges varied: some viewed them as enriching and valuable experiences, while others felt isolated and faced communication barriers. These findings highlight the importance of incorporating local cultural content into BIPA instruction and the necessity of social support to enhance the adaptation process for international learners.