Pre-colonial learning
What were the two main indigenous groups in the Caribbean before colonization?
The taino and kalinago
Who primarily ran schools during the colonial period in the Caribbean?
Churches and missionaries.
What is does "Post- colonial education" make reference to?
Post-Colonial Education refers to the changes and reforms made to the education system after a country gained independence from colonial rule.
Name 2 key industries strengthened by an educated Caribbean workforce.
Tourism, agriculture, or finance.
How was knowledge passed down in pre-colonial Caribbean societies?
Through storytelling, hands-on experience, and mentorship from elders.
What is meant by "colonial education"?
Colonial Education refers to the education system established by European colonizers in the territories they controlled. This system was designed to serve the interests of the colonial powers, often focusing on teaching European languages, Christianity, and values that promoted obedience and reinforced European cultural superiority.
What was a key focus of Caribbean nations after gaining independence?
Expanding access to education and reflecting local culture in the curriculum.
How has greater access to education affected gender representation in the Caribbean?
More women are now represented in politics, medicine, law, and other professional fields.
How did pre-colonial education influence leadership in indigenous communities?
Leadership was based on wisdom and experience rather than formal schooling.
What was the main goal of the colonial education
To serve European interests by creating obedient laborers and servants.
Name one societal change that resulted from post-colonial education
Increased social mobility and more locals in leadership roles.
Besides economic growth, what is another major benefit of education in Caribbean societies today?
It preserves Caribbean culture and identity, ensuring traditions and regional values remain strong.
How did pre-colonial education differ from colonial education, and what impact did that have on society?
Pre-colonial education was informal and community-based, focusing on survival skills, traditions, and spiritual beliefs. In contrast, colonial education was formal, controlled by Europeans, and aimed at shaping a labor force rather than uplifting the local population.
How did colonial education deepen social divisions in Caribbean society?
It limited education to white settlers and elites, sidelined African and indigenous knowledge, and determined social status by access to education.
How did post-colonial education contribute to democratic participation?
By improving literacy rates, allowing more people to engage in governance and economic growth.
How can modern education systems better reflect Caribbean culture and history?
Modern education systems can be more culturally relevant by integrating Caribbean history, literature, and arts into the curriculum. Using real-life Caribbean case studies in business, economics, and science can also make learning more relatable.