Philippine is the world’s second-largest archipelago which consists of more than 7,000 islands. It is the only English-speaking archipelago in Southeast Asia with a majority of people following the Catholic religion. The national language of Philippine is English next to Filipino and its uniqueness has a great impact on its education system. The Philippine education system is based on the American system where English is the medium of instruction. Along with academics social and cultural aspects are also cherished by the Philippine schools.
Culture is the foundation of education, sustainable development, and governance in culture-based education. Culture provides perspective, methodology, principle, assessment, framework, and evaluation upon which abilities, skills, and knowledge regarding a person and the world are disseminated. It is a teaching strategy and a philosophy of education where student learning is grounded on the unique values, norms, cultural beliefs, knowledge, practices, heritage, language, experiences of the community. The Filipinos develop a great understanding, awareness, and appreciation of their history, arts, heritage, and geography towards the perception that will enhance the quality of life. With the implementation of culture-based education the Philippines visualizes to progress as a nation of culturally empowered and literate Filipinos who are committed global citizens as well as ardent nationalists and patriotic people.
Motive of Culture-based Education
Applying cultural values in education has a positive effect on several elements. It nurtures the sense of belonging, identity, and strengthens community participation; it also promotes appreciation and understanding of history and cultural heritage. Cultural heritage is not only about old things but also about new objects, practices, and places which hold cultural value for recent generations. The crucial role of the community’s culture carriers in teaching and learning process is maintained. A sense of responsibility in valuing, developing and protecting the environment is inculcated in children. Students develop competencies and cultural skills which are required for interacting with people around the world. The culture instills the sense of national pride and develops an individual’s identity as a nation. Preserving the cultural memory will lead to a greater understanding of the nation’s destiny in the global society and community of nations.
Culture-based Pedagogy
Batangas city in the Philippines is honored with incredible cultural heritage, predominantly Batangas music, literature, traditions, dance, food, arts, and values that reflect the distinctive characteristics of the Batanguenos’ approach of life. To reinforce the learning of student and help them attain high academic performance a teaching guide was developed using culture-based pedagogy. In a study carried out at Batangas State University, few topics in physics were assessed where culture-based pedagogy can be utilized and the aspects of Batangueno culture were applied. For example, Karerang Bangka aspect of culture was used to teach linear motion also various other aspects were used to teach physics. The procedure of cooking traditional food, street dancing, and parade of floats during Batangas city foundation etc. give a clear presentation of scientific principles of aspects of typical Batangueno culture. Engagement in cultural activities will lead to meaningful learning experiences by the students and also gain knowledge of Physics. This is a very innovative way of teaching method which will help students gain academic knowledge along with insights to cultural aspects of the country.
The study suggested that Batangueño cultures were moderately applicable to teaching physics. The common methods of teaching topics in Physics include video clips, pictures, and power point presentations. The culture-based teaching approach may help curriculum planner directing teachers of creating a pedagogy that enhances student motivation and performances. In this way, the Filipino culture and traditions will be preserved and through culture-based pedagogy methods learning competencies will be meaningfully achieved by students. Adopting unique ways of teaching may serve as catalyst to open novel teaching pedagogy practices with the help of Batangueño culture.
The use of cultural aspects in education may serve as a new flavor that can uplift student’s interests towards the subject matter. Furthermore, this can lead learners to a strong connection between classroom learning experiences and their way of life. They may also develop a spirit of patriotism, nationalism, and cultivate their strong sense of belongingness to the community. All this will lead to an optimistic change to the nation.
Culture plays a noteworthy role in learning-teaching process and serves as the origins of the teacher’s innovation and creativity in teaching methodologies and approaches. Culture dictates the behavior of mankind and it is complex formed from the history of ancient civilizations which is inherited to generations. In order to improve the educational process, there is a need to cope up with the challenges and stand out among others.
