Can the IPS Learning Model with Local Wisdom Character Values Boost Elementary Students’ Learning Motivation?

Numerous primary school students reveal low learning motivation in social studies because the material is abstract and less relevant to their lives. An innovative learning model that integrates local cultural values is needed to make learning more interesting and meaningful. This study aims to test the effectiveness of a social studies learning model that contains character values of the local wisdom tradition in increasing the learning motivation of elementary students. Local wisdom from Sumatra has values of togetherness, unity, and collective spirit that can be integrated into character education. The study used a quasi-experimental design with a post-test-only control group design model involving three fourth-grade classes, consisting of two experimental classes and one control class. Data were collected through a learning motivation questionnaire based on cognitive motivation theory and analyzed using one-way ANOVA and the LSD post hoc test. The results reveal a significant difference in learning motivation between groups, with the highest score shown by the class that received learning based on local wisdom character values. This finding indicates that the integration of local cultural values in social studies learning is effective in building students' intrinsic motivation. This model is an innovative alternative in developing character education that is contextual and relevant to students' cultural backgrounds.