Learning the Kichwa language in the technical baccalaureate

Abstract

Introduction: The Kichwa language, native to the central Andes of South America, is not only a means of communication, but also a key component of Ecuadorian cultural identity. Spoken by millions of people in countries such as Ecuador, Perú, and Bolivia, Kichwa is essential to preserve the traditions, values and worldview of indigenous communities. Objectives: The objective of this study is to analyze the factors that influence the appropriation of the Kichwa language in reading and writing among technical high school students in the community of La Cocha, Zumbahua, Cotopaxi. Methodology: A qualitative research design is established, of documentary type, where the case study of the implementation of EIB in communities of Cotopaxi is conducted, analyzing the educational and cultural results. Results: The community faces the urgent need to strengthen the use of Kichwa in all its forms within the educational system, ensuring that students not only learn the language orally, but also in its writing, to preserve and revitalize this ancestral language. This diagnosis highlights the main problems of the community of La Cocha related to education, the use of Kichwa and socioeconomic limitations, in a clear and direct way. Conclusions: The Kichwa language is at serious risk of extinction in the community of La Cocha due to the predominant adoption of Spanish, driven by migration to the cities and the lack of opportunities to use Kichwa in formal and everyday contexts. This loss of language also leads to a decrease in the appreciation of Andean culture and a threat to the identity of the community. General area of study: education. Specific area of study: education. Type of item: original.