Abstract: This research paper explores the transformation of the educational curriculum in the Philippines, tracing its development from the Pre-Spanish period to the American era. It examines the impact of colonial rule on the educational system, highlighting the establishment of Catholic schools by the Spaniards and the introduction of American-style education during the American occupation. The paper also discusses the consequences of these changes on Filipino society, including the effects on national identity and the emergence of a colonial mentality.
Introduction
The educational curriculum in the Philippines has undergone significant changes throughout history. This paper aims to analyze the evolution of the curriculum from the Pre-Spanish period to the American era, examining the influences and effects of each period. By understanding the historical development of the curriculum, we can gain insights into the factors that shaped the educational system in the Philippines and their implications for the present.
Pre-Spanish Period: Foundations of Filipino Education
During the Pre-Spanish period, the educational practices in the Philippines were rooted in indigenous cultures. The Filipinos had a decentralized and unsystematic approach to education, where learning was passed down through oral tradition and practical experiences. Despite lacking a formal system, the Filipinos possessed their own culture and had interactions with various foreign peoples, such as Arabs, Indians, Chinese, Indo-Chinese, and Bornean. This section explores the educational practices and knowledge transmission during this period, emphasizing the significance of basic habits, cultural patterns, and moral standards in the well-organized system of government.
Spanish Colonial Influence: Catholic Schools and Assimilation
The arrival of the Spaniards in the Philippines brought significant changes to the educational landscape. The Spaniards sought to propagate Christianity, leading to the establishment of Catholic schools linked with churches. These schools aimed to teach catechism to the native population and were integral to the primary goal of colonial education. Missionary friars played a crucial role as teachers, imparting reading, writing, and church music skills alongside religious instruction. However, there was a discrepancy between the friars' use of the local dialect as a medium of instruction and the Spanish government's directive to teach religion in Spanish. This section discusses the assimilation efforts of the Spaniards through education and the complexities that arose from the linguistic and cultural tensions.
American Occupation and Educational Reform: Thomasites and English Language Instruction
Under American rule, education became a powerful tool for pacification and assimilation. The Americans viewed education as a means to establish control and promote their ideals of democracy and modernization. American soldiers played a significant role in restoring damaged schoolhouses and building new ones, while the arrival of the Thomasites marked a turning point in the educational landscape. The Thomasites, a group of well-trained American teachers, brought with them new teaching methods and curricula. The Americans emphasized the use of English as a medium of instruction and introduced subjects such as English reading, writing, conversation, geography, and civic education. This section explores the primary curriculum introduced by the Americans and its impact on the Filipino educational system.
Consequences and Challenges: National Identity and Colonial Mentality
The American influence on education had profound consequences for the Filipino sense of national identity. While the American education system expanded knowledge and introduced new perspectives, it also created a divide between the elite and the masses. The use of English as a medium of instruction became a barrier for those who did not have access to quality English education, widening social inequalities. Moreover, the adoption of American ways of life and cultural practices led to the development of colonial mentality, where Filipinos began to devalue their own heritage and prioritize Western ideals. This section examines the impact of American education on the Filipino people, discussing the challenges faced in reclaiming and preserving national identity in the face of cultural alienation.
Conclusion: Shaping the Future of Philippine Education
The evolution of the educational curriculum in the Philippines reflects the historical influences of the Pre-Spanish and American periods. While colonial rule introduced formal education and expanded knowledge, it also brought challenges such as cultural alienation and the erosion of national identity. Understanding this evolution is crucial in shaping future educational reforms that foster a strong sense of Filipino identity while incorporating global perspectives. By acknowledging the historical context and the consequences of past educational policies, policymakers and educators can work towards a more inclusive and culturally responsive curriculum that celebrates Filipino heritage and prepares students for a globalized world.
References:
Andres, T.Q.D., & Francisco, F.Y. (1989). Curriculum Development in the Philippine Setting. Sta. Cruz, Manila: Calero Press.
Bago, A.L. (2001). Curriculum Development: The Philippine Experience. Manila: De La Salle University Press.
Durban, J.M., & Catalan, R.D. (2012). Issues and Concerns of Philippine Education Through the Years. Oyama, Japan: Leena and Luna International.