Integrating Local Culture into Digital Learning: Developing Media for Beginner BIPA Students in North Sumatra

This study develops digital learning media that integrate North Sumatran culture to support beginner learners of Bahasa Indonesia for Foreign Speakers (BIPA) at Universitas Negeri Medan. Aiming to enhance speaking and listening skills, the tools combine interactive, culturally relevant content with AI technology, tailored to Generation Z international students. Using the ADDIE-based Research and Development model, the study has reached the implementation stage. The media include AI-generated videos, contextual dialogues, synchronized subtitles, speech modeling, and adaptive pronunciation feedback to improve accuracy, comprehension, and confidence. Early implementation shows positive learner responses, particularly to the cultural integration and interactivity. By embedding local culture into digital learning, the study enriches language acquisition, fosters intercultural competence, and offers a framework for culturally grounded, AI-enhanced BIPA instruction.