Palau

Impacts of Education and Cultural Changes

Authors

  • Virginia Luka Southern Oregon University

Keywords:

education, Palau, Micronesia, tradition, teaching

Abstract

For this educational study from June 2010 to mid-August 2010, interviews and literature reviews were conducted to gain knowledge regarding the history of education and cultural impacts on the Micronesian Islands of Palau. Before the concept of formal education was introduced to Palau, the natives used a traditional system of education. Palauan children were taught eight specific fundamental principles at home and in clubs. These principles gave them the necessary skills needed to properly conduct themselves in and outside their homes, be accepted by society, and shed “good light on their family (blai), clan (kebliil), and village (beluu)†(Palau Society of Historians, 2006, p.4). The traditional practices were influenced by four major foreign influences: Spain, Germany, Japan, and the United States of America. While some traditional practices are no longer performed, others have been adapted, or modernized.

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Younghee Kim

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Published

2018-06-06

Issue

Section

Humanities