Philippine E-Journals

Starting Over: Ayta Involvement in Education before and after Pinatubo

Jenny Golden

Discipline: Education

 

Abstract:

This paper describes some basic traditional elements of Ayta culture and highlights some of the non-traditional results of the radical shift in their lifestyle after the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo forced them to resettle elsewhere. This study was based on interviews, personal observation, and case studies in Ayta communities both before and after the eruption. Results of interviews and comparisons with cultural observations revealed that traditional public education has had very little relevance for the Ayta. Relationships with teachers and peers are keys to Ayta success in the educational process. The author suggests that cooperation, group consensus, and equality should be maintained during educational activities. Ayta education should focus on practical applications that will maintain their independence and allow their self-esteem to remain intact.