Nationalism, Multiculturalism and The History Curriculum

Abstract

<p>The theme of nationalism in the curriculum is one of considerable importance when one considers the recurring debates on the subject by both educators and politicians. The word has different meanings for different people. However, amidst the sometimes confusing and conflicting dialogue common ideas emerge, e. g. , the importance of having a national identity and of the idea of loyalty to one's nation. Many view the history curriculum as an ideal instrument through which nationalism could be instilled in youth.</p> <p>This project attempts to examine the role of nationalism in two history curricula; one for the Province of Ontario, Canada, and the other for the nation of Trinidad and Tobago in the Caribbean. It focuses primarily on the theme of multiculturalism as an expression of nationalism in the Ontario curriculum and some comparison is made with the Trinidad and Tobago experience. Pertinent to the discussion is the role of history as a unique discipline in the curriculum and the problems that exist for history in trying to accommodate the theme of nationalism as perceived by curriculum planners.</p>