Popular schools in Arcatao, Chalatenango, during the civil war (1980-1992)

Abstract

Popular education in Latin America took on a new meaning for the second half of the 20th century. In El Salvador, it developed during the civil war, because, in the midst of an economic, political, and social crisis, the attempts of rural communities to implement literacy training and basic education projects were not stopped, and continued with the support of social and political-military organizations.

This paper will analyse the origin and development of the popular schools in the municipality of Arcatao, department of Chalatenango, during the civil war (1980-1992). From oral history, the educational trajectories of the students and the experience of the teachers of the popular schools will be recreated, as well as the participation of the Catholic Church and international organizations.

The research is divided into three main areas: first, the stages of the civil war during which popular education was developed will be described, and then a study will be made of how popular schools operated, highlighting their organization, teaching methodology, educational levels, resources and financing. Finally, we will identify the relational dynamics surrounding popular schools.