Students at residential schools in Canada, which operated from the late 19th century until the late 20th century, experienced a curriculum that was heavily focused on assimilating Indigenous children into Euro-Canadian culture. The key aspects of what students learned include:
-
Basic Academic Subjects: Some residential schools provided education in reading, writing, and arithmetic, though the quality varied greatly. The focus was often on basic literacy and numeracy skills.
-
Cultural Assimilation: A significant part of the curriculum was aimed at eradicating Indigenous languages and cultures. Children were often punished for speaking their native languages and learning traditional practices and beliefs was discouraged.
-
Vocational Training: Many schools offered training in trades and domestic skills. Boys might learn farming, carpentry, or other trades, while girls were often taught sewing, cooking, and housekeeping.
-
Religious Instruction: Many residential schools were run by church organizations, and religious education was a significant part of the curriculum. This often meant instilling Christian beliefs and values, which were imposed on the students.
-
Discipline and Labor: Students were often subjected to strict discipline and hard labor. Many schools required students to engage in manual labor, which was seen as part of their education.
The legacy of residential schools has had long-lasting impacts on Indigenous communities in Canada, contributing to intergenerational trauma, loss of language and culture, and social challenges. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) has documented many of these experiences and called for recognition and reparations for the harm caused.
1 answer