Error Analysis in Language Use in Descriptive Texts by Indonesian Language Learners for Foreign Speakers (BIPA) in Understanding Local Culture: A Study on Kokushikan University Students, Japan

Language is a primary medium for understanding and introducing culture, especially in learning Indonesian for Foreign Speakers (BIPA). Proper and correct use of Indonesian in accordance with linguistic rules is essential in BIPA learning. This study aims to analyze language errors made by BIPA students in descriptive texts introducing local culture. The research focuses on students from Kokushikan University, Japan, who studied Indonesian language and culture at Universitas Sebelas Maret through the “Discover Indonesia Better” program in 2023. Using a qualitative method with a document analysis approach, the study identifies and classifies language errors in morphology and syntax. Data were obtained from descriptive texts written by 24 BIPA students. The results show morphological errors such as substitution, phoneme omission, phoneme addition, and vocabulary selection errors. Syntactic errors include sentence structure issues, incorrect placement of adverbs and objects, and misplacement of adverbs of place and tools. These errors are caused by first language interference (Japanese), limited understanding of Indonesian grammar, and restricted vocabulary mastery. The findings provide insights for improving BIPA teaching materials and strategies to help students write descriptive texts more effectively.