Summarize articles presented and how they are impacting your thinking of decolonization of education. Throughout our ongoing research of education in Tanzania and the US, we have learned about the current systems of education in both countries. From the research collected about Tanzania, we learned about the numerous policies put into place that have allowed education to be more equitable for all genders and students with disabilities, such as Word Declaration on Education for All and Dakar Framework for Action. Despite policies and the rise of enrollment rates, we found that there are certain inequalities in education for both female students and students with disabilities due to long distances between home and school and shortage of female teachers as role models. As a result, female students perform lower of assessments and have a higher dropout rate.
Another study we explored was in regard to education and its role in poverty reduction, in Tanzania. Education was described as an acquisition of knowledge for the betterment of society and social change. This study used the human capital theory (Shultz, 1960) as a framework to explain that investing in education can raise the overall value of labor supply in the future. This study found that students who enroll in secondary education choose non-farm occupations while students who only enroll in primary education tend to chose farm occupation which has been found to lead to poverty. The study concluded that the more students invest in their education and continue to secondary education, poverty can be slowly reduced.
Creating inclusive classrooms, with inclusive curriculum and accessibility would be the first but most important step in order to decolonize the education system both in Tanzania and the United States. Through email exchanges between educators in Tanzania, I have learned about the similarities and differences the western mindset has influenced the education system. Currently, both education systems are guilty of having one model for all students, ignoring that each student is an individual with various accommodations, interests and backgrounds.
What will you do to ensure you are safe during the trip? Throughout my time in Tanzania, I plan to ensure my safety by traveling with a group, being mindful of where my food comes from, and adhering to the itinerary set before me. To prepare for this trip, I made an appointment with my doctor and received the recommended vaccinations. Although I have never traveled to Tanzania, my experiences traveling have been positive. Upset stomachs are uncommon so I am hoping I will have the same experience. Additionally, I have learned important words in Swahili that will allow me to (somewhat) communicate. Words include: hello, thank you, goodbye, please, I need help, and more.
What concerns do you have about the trip? My only concern is related to the limited amount of time to be had in Tanzania. Such a place, with rich culture and history, can be explored for a lifetime and yet I am to embrace the country within the span of less than a few weeks. Subsequently, I aim to be present and engaged in everything that happens on the trip in order to best experience and remember the beautiful country of Tanzania. Additionally, I have learned about the possible dangers in the water in Tanzania and therefore I must ensure to only drink bottled water, even when brushing my teeth! As mentioned, I have received the recommended vaccinations. Most importantly, I want to connect with the beautiful people there and learn as much as I can.