Course Syllabus: Philippine Indigenous
Studies
Course Description:
This course provides an in-depth exploration of the diverse indigenous cultures of the
Philippines. It examines the historical, social, and cultural contexts of various indigenous
groups, highlighting their contributions to Philippine society. The course aims to foster an
understanding and appreciation of indigenous knowledge systems, practices, and
worldviews.
Course Objectives:
By the end of this course, students should be able to:
Identify and describe the major indigenous groups in the Philippines.
Understand the historical and contemporary issues affecting indigenous communities.
Analyze the cultural practices, traditions, and belief systems of indigenous peoples.
Appreciate the contributions of indigenous knowledge to the broader Philippine society.
Critically assess the impact of modernization and globalization on indigenous cultures.
Course Outline:
Week 1: Introduction to Philippine Indigenous Studies
Importance of studying indigenous cultures
Basic concepts and terminologies
Week 2: Indigenous Peoples of the Philippines: An Overview
Major indigenous groups
Geographical distribution
Demographics and social structure
Week 3: Historical Context
Pre-colonial history
Impact of Spanish colonization
American and Japanese periods
Week 4: Indigenous Belief Systems and Practices
Spirituality and religion
Rituals and ceremonies
Traditional healing practices
Week 5: Indigenous Knowledge Systems
Agricultural practices
Environmental management
Ethnobotany and traditional medicine
Week 6: Indigenous Arts and Crafts
Traditional art forms (weaving, pottery, etc.)
Music and dance
Oral literature and storytelling
Week 7: Language and Communication
Indigenous languages
Preservation and revitalization efforts
Role of oral traditions
Week 8: Indigenous Political Systems and Governance
Traditional leadership structures
Conflict resolution
Role in contemporary governance
Week 9: Contemporary Issues and Challenges
Land rights and ancestral domains
Education and health
Political and social marginalization
Week 10: Indigenous Peoples and Modernization
Impact of globalization
Cultural preservation vs. development
Case studies of indigenous responses to change
Week 11: Indigenous Movements and Advocacy
Advocacy for rights and recognition
Role of NGOs and international organizations
Success stories and ongoing struggles
Week 12: Indigenous Peoples and the Environment
Role in biodiversity conservation
Sustainable practices
Impact of climate change
Weekm 13: Film and Media Representations
Representation in Philippine media
Documentary screenings and analysis
Critical perspectives on media portrayals
Week 14: Indigenous Peoples in Literature
Indigenous authors and their works
Themes and narratives
Contribution to Philippine literature
Week 15: Course Review and Final Project Presentations
Review of key topics
Student presentations
Course evaluation