Culture-Based Contextual Learning to Strengthen BIPA Learners’ Communicative Competence at the Indonesian Embassy in Vienna

Abstract

The community engagement program implemented culture-based Contextual Teaching and Learning to strengthen the communicative competence of Indonesian for Speakers of Other Languages learners at the Indonesian Embassy in Vienna. Approximately 8–12 learners with diverse proficiency levels participated in three interactive sessions: a Maumere dance workshop, an Indonesian horror-film discussion, and a marketplace simulation followed by Indonesian cooking activities. Program outcomes were evaluated through participant observation, documentation, oral reflection, and performance-based assessment. The activities encouraged learners to use Indonesian in meaningful cultural contexts, resulting in greater participation, confidence, speaking fluency, and mastery of contextual vocabulary and expressions. Learners also demonstrated development in grammatical, sociolinguistic, discourse, and strategic competence. Despite limitations related to time, facilities, and heterogeneous proficiency levels, culture-based contextual learning created an engaging and authentic communicative environment. This facilitation model can support overseas BIPA programs while contributing to the internationalization of Indonesian and Indonesia’s cultural diplomacy.