Erma Kusumawardani, Sugito, Puji Yanti Fauziah, Bayu Pamungkas, Hideaki Tanimoto
This study seeks to examine the educational significance of Undokai events in Japan and their importance for character development among students in Indonesia. Employing an exploratory qualitative method via interviews, observations, and document analysis, this study investigates the experiences of teachers, students, and parents concerning their roles in executing Undokai. The findings indicate that Undokai embodies several significant values in character development, such as teamwork and unity, accountability and self-discipline, perseverance, leadership and autonomy, alongside the participation of parents and the community. The results also indicate that there are contextual differences between Japan and Indonesia. Japan highlights structure, discipline, and community engagement, whereas Indonesia focuses on adaptability, creativity, and unity. Nonetheless, both methods could enhance one another in bolstering character education initiatives within educational institutions. This study validates that character education occurs not only in classrooms, but also through shared experiences with families and communities. This research suggests that integrating Undokai values with the richness of local Indonesian culture is essential for developing contextual, transformative, and sustainable character education. © The Authors.
Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Indonesia; Osaka Sangyo University, Osaka, Japan
