Developing a Gebyok Kudus E-Book for Writing Instruction

Abstract

This study aims to develop and evaluate a culturally-based e-book featuring Gebyok Kudus as a learning medium for descriptive text writing among fourth-grade elementary students in Kudus Regency. The research employed the Research and Development (R&D) method as proposed by Sugiyono, consisting of stages such as needs analysis, design, validation, limited trials, and effectiveness testing. The needs analysis revealed that most students had difficulty understanding and writing descriptive texts and lacked knowledge of local culture, particularly Gebyok Kudus. The e-book was developed using Canva and contains materials on the history, motifs, and philosophical values of Gebyok Kudus, aligned with the structure of descriptive texts. The trial results showed a significant improvement in students’ post-test scores, increasing from an average of 71.85 to 80.81. Students also demonstrated enhanced cultural awareness and the ability to describe local heritage with greater accuracy. Product evaluation indicated positive responses regarding visual and content aspects, although several elements required refinement. The effectiveness test showed that the e-book-supported classes outperformed conventional learning in developing writing competence.Therefore, the developed e-book proves effective as an instructional tool that not only improves students’ literacy skills but also strengthens their understanding of local culture. This product is recommended as an alternative teaching material aligned with the Merdeka Belajar Curriculum, which emphasizes contextual and culturally responsive learning.