Mainstream education, rooted in Eurocentric values, frequently neglects the diversity of worldviews and models of well-being, resulting in the homogenisation of populations under the sway of dominant cultures (Samaniego et al., 2004). This series, created by Macarena Montero Lobos, seeks to promote the recognition of Latin American perspectives and their contributions to the field of education through a decolonial approach, thereby fostering an inclusive and endogenous education that is free from discrimination and closely aligned with the genuine needs of the territory. By offering new insights, the series aims to envision alternative forms of development that prioritise quality of life, agency, and cultural identity.
Macarena Montero Lobos is a community social worker from Chile, and this series forms part of her final research project for a Master’s degree in International Development at the University of Galway in Ireland. Her work has centred on non-formal education, culture, and social organisation, particularly focusing on children and women living in poverty and unjust conditions.
This initiative, funded by COST Action CA19129, comprises a series of four blogs featuring insights from key figures in the field, as a result of dialogues with each of them and reflections on their experiences. The blogs are accompanied by a series of four videos, called “Ideas to transform education”, which artistically introduces four concepts to challenge the conventional education model. These concepts draw inspiration from indigenous cultures and grassroots organisations in Latin America.
Video 2: Diversity (vs. uniformity)
Video 3: Community (vs. individuality)
Video 4: Seasonality-Cycles of Life