Guidance, Creation, and Utilization of Interactive Digital Comics Based on Indonesian Culture for Lecturers of the Malay Language Department at Thaksin University

Abstract

This Community Service (PkM) activity aims to improve the competence of lecturers of the Thaksin University Malay Language Department in developing and utilizing interactive digital comics based on Indonesian culture as a learning medium. The material for this digital comic is taken from the story of Borobudur Temple. This is because the socio-religious background between Indonesia and Thailand has similarities. The similarity is that Indonesia and Thailand have the same Buddhist religion and are applied to historical heritage through Borobudur Temple. The background of this activity is the still limited use of innovative and contextual digital learning media in teaching Indonesian language and culture in the partner environment. The implementation method includes several stages, namely observation, needs analysis, training and mentoring in creating interactive digital comics, as well as evaluation of activities and products. The results of the activity show an increase in lecturers' knowledge and skills in designing storylines, composing scripts, and operating digital comic creation platforms, as well as the birth of a number of interactive digital comic products that are relevant to teaching materials and depict the richness of Indonesian culture. In addition, participants showed a positive attitude and high motivation to integrate interactive digital comics in the learning process. Thus, this PkM activity contributes to strengthening innovation in learning media and the introduction of Indonesian culture in the Thaksin University Malay Language Department environment.