Maya children's medicinal plant knowledge: Initiative and agency in their learning process

This study builds on the paradigm of Learning by Observing and Pitching In (LOPI) to explore how Yucatec Maya children (ages 7 to 12) describe and understand their learning process, illustrated by how they learn about medicinal plants. Using semi-structured interviews, children identified the use of 16 medicinal plants used to cure common illnesses in their community, including skin, respiratory, or digestive problems. Children's most prevalent learning approaches in our sample were observing adults using medicinal plants, listening to related conversations during preparation, asking clarifying questions, and collecting medicinal plants. Their own experience with illness was a source of knowledge and an opportunity to learn about plants' uses and preparation. Children's motivation to contribute seemed pivotal in their learning process. Full integration into the community facilitated their acquisition of medicinal plant knowledge through a gradual learning process guided by their interest to help others. These findings highlight the need to understand how learning is a culturally organized activity, as well as the need to recognize children as active agents in their own development.
Source: Learning, Culture and Social Interaction - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Source Type: research