The utilization of purwodadi botanical garden as a source of research and biological education media
Keywords:
biology education, ex-situ conservation, learning, Purwodadi Botanic GardenAbstract
Purwodadi Botanic Garden (KRP) has great potential as an ex-situ conservation center as well as a natural laboratory for supporting biological research and education, yet its utilization as a learning resource remains limited and is often dominated by recreational purposes. This study aims to explore the collection of lowland dry flora in KRP as a medium for biology education based on outdoor learning. The research employed a descriptive approach through student internship activities conducted in May–July 2025, including species identification, morphological and ecological observations, recording of adaptive traits, and documentation of the collections. Data analysis was complemented by literature studies and linked to the Biology Curriculum of UIN Sunan Kalijaga. The results showed that KRP manages more than 11,000 specimens from approximately 2,472 plant species that can be studied across 28 branches of biological sciences, such as morphology, ecology, ethnobotany, and orchidology. These collections offer significant opportunities for the development of teaching modules, field practices, and student research, while also highlighting the relevance of KRP as an applied learning resource. Direct observations further revealed various adaptive traits of lowland dry plants, such as thick leaves, succulent stems, and stilt roots, which serve as concrete examples in ecological and physiological studies. Therefore, this research emphasizes that KRP not only plays an essential role in conservation but can also be effectively utilized as an educational medium to enhance conceptual understanding, learning motivation, and environmental conservation awareness among students.
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