Case Study of Children's Learning Motivation in the Salt Farming Environment of Arungkeke Village

Abstract: Background: In the coastal region of Arungkeke, Jeneponto Regency, South Sulawesi, The Republic of Indonesia a profound paradox exists where the abundance of natural salt resources often functions as a poverty trap rather than a catalyst for human development. Despite the global commitments of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the local reality is defined by extreme climatic conditions and a "survival literacy" mindset that prioritizes immediate economic gain over long-term education. Methodology: The research employs a qualitative approach, using in-depth interviews and direct observations of salt pond owners, laborers, teachers, and students. To strengthen the analysis, secondary data from the Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS) for the 2019–2024 period was integrated to track trends in School Dropout Rates (APS) and Mean Years of Schooling (RLS). Results: The findings reveal a strong positive correlation between salt harvest seasons and increased school absenteeism, as children are often viewed as "labor units" to compensate for their aging parents' declining physical health. Statistical data shows that the Mean Years of Schooling in Jeneponto (7.2–7.8 years) remains significantly below the provincial average (8.6 years). Furthermore, the extreme working environment (temperatures reaching to ) and high price volatility ranging from IDR 35,000 to IDR 250,000 per bag create a fragile financial cycle that often forces families to sacrifice their children's education for basic survival. Conclusion: The vulnerability of salt farmers in Arungkeke needs targeted interventions, such as "Seasonal Scholarships" or transportation subsidies, to mitigate the impact of price drops on education. Additionally, increasing the number of educators who understand local socio-economic wisdom is vital to transforming schools from perceived economic "enemies" into partners for breaking the cycle of poverty in Butta Turatea Jeneponto. Keywords: Salt Farmers, Economic Determinism, School Dropout Rates, Jeneponto, Coastal Education, Socio-Economic Vulnerability. Title: Case Study of Children's Learning Motivation in the Salt Farming Environment of Arungkeke Village Author: Ida Maiyanti A. Rajamuddin International Journal of Novel Research in Education and Learning ISSN 2394-9686 Vol. 13, Issue 1, January 2026 - February 2026 Page No: 39-46 Novelty Journals Website: www.noveltyjournals.com Published Date: 20-February-2026 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18714128 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.noveltyjournals.com/upload/paper/Case%20Study%20of%20Children's%20Learning%20Motivation-20022026-1.pdf