Analysis of Fort Marlborough Primary Sources in History Learning: The Construction of Historical Awareness Through a Digital Heuristic Approach

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the utilization of primary historical sources from Fort Marlborough in history learning through a digital heuristic approach to build students' historical awareness.  This study uses a descriptive qualitative method with a case study approach. The subject of the study is a student of the history education study program who is taking the Basics of History course. Data were collected through participatory observation in the search of digital archives (such as the British Library and Leiden University collections), in-depth interviews, and analysis of historical narrative products compiled by students.  The findings show that the digital heuristic approach facilitates students to access previously elusive British colonial documents related to Fort Marlborough. This process enhances the ability to critique sources and strengthens the construction of historical awareness, where students no longer see the fort as a mere tourist attraction, but rather as a center of political and economic negotiation on the west coast of Sumatra. Conclusion: The integration of digital primary sources in history learning has proven to be effective in transforming students' way of thinking from textual-passive to analytical-critical, which is the core of historical awareness.