FIVE COMPONENTS OF NATIVE EDUCATION - MULUWA CHRISPIN

 

FIVE COMPONENTS OF NATIVE EDUCATION

African indigenous education refers to the traditional methods of teaching, learning, and transmitting knowledge that have been practiced by various African communities for generations. Its approach to education integrates cultural, social, spiritual, and practical elements into the learning process. African indigenous education existed among African communities before the coming of the missionary or before the coming of the western education. Therefore, this assignment will describe the five components of traditional education and further show the significance of each component.

To start with, the five components of African indigenous education includes; Apprenticeship in practical skills, learning through observation, imitation, and repetition, history and tradition teaching of the clans and tribes, religious teaching based on the supreme being and teaching young ones social obligations and good manners.

Apprenticeship in Practical Skills, African indigenous education often emphasized the practical acquisition of skills through apprenticeship systems. Young individuals learnt various crafts, trades, and survival skills from skilled artisans, craftsmen, or members of their community.

Therefore, apprenticeship offers hands-on training in practical skills which is significant for livelihood and community sustenance. According to Karen, (2017), “beyond vocational expertise, apprenticeships nurture soft skills like communication, problem-solving, and teamwork, shaping well-rounded individuals capable of adapting to diverse challenges.” This means that besides acquiring practical skill, apprenticeship also imparted soft skills.

Observation, imitation, and repetition, in this component children learnt by closely observing and imitating the actions, behaviors, and practices of their elders and peers. Through repeated practice and participation in communal activities, skills were honed, knowledge was internalized, and cultural values were reinforced. (Law, Barbi et al, 2009).

Certainly, learning through observation, imitation, and repletion is significant because individuals acquired knowledge and skills by watching and emulating others. Because of attention and motivation as a result of seeing others practicing, it fostered behavior change and social integration.

History and tradition teaching of the clans and tribes, according to this component elders pass down oral histories, myths, and legends to younger generations, preserving the collective memory of the community. Through storytelling, songs, and rituals, children learn about their ancestors, significant events, and the values that shape their society.

Indeed, history and tradition teaching is significant as it helps in cultural preservation, it also brings a sense of belonging, pride, and continuity within the community, reinforcing cultural identity and cohesion.

Religious Teaching Based on the Supreme Being, these teachings emphasize concepts such as morality, spirituality, and the inter-connection of all living things. Elders and spiritual leaders impart knowledge about rituals, ceremonies, and ethical codes that govern behavior and guide individuals in their relationship with the divine and the natural world (Shettleworth, 2010).

Therefore, religious education in African indigenous culture serves a very big significance as it provides an individual a sense of reverence and responsibility towards one another and the natural world. By upholding principles of fairness, equality, and compassion, religious teachings reinforce social cohesion and mutual respect within communities (Fagan, 2006).

Teaching young ones social obligations and good manners, through this component elders and parents impart knowledge about societal norms, values, and etiquette through everyday interactions, storytelling, and role modeling. Children learn the importance of respect, cooperation, and reciprocity in their interactions with family members, peers, and elders (Gyekye and Kwame, 1996).  

Undoubtedly, teaching young ones social obligation and good manners by instilling values of respect, consideration, and empathy, this component cultivates a sense of belonging and responsibility within children. It equips them with essential life skills that foster healthy relationships, effective communication, and success in various social contexts.

In conclusion, African indigenous education refers to the traditional methods of teaching, learning, and transmitting knowledge............................

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