La interculturalidad en contextos educativos para el reconocimiento, respeto y fortalecimiento de la diversidad cultural y lingüística en sexto grado del Colegio Abraham Lincoln en Tunja

Abstract

The objective of this pedagogical proposal was to strengthen interculturality and promote the recognition of the Muisca culture and the Muysccubun language among sixth-grade students at Abraham Lincoln School in Tunja. The research was conducted using a descriptive qualitative and action-research approach, involving 15 students, five of whom belonged to Indigenous communities. The proposal emerged from the identification of limited knowledge about the Muisca culture and the absence of pedagogical strategies aimed at recognizing ancestral knowledge within the school context. To address this need, an Intercultural Pedagogical Program was designed and structured into three phases: intercultural awareness through audiovisual materials, a dialogue of knowledge with Muisca representatives and knowledge keepers, and cultural production through the creation and presentation of posters. A semi-structured survey and a field diary were used as data collection instruments. The results showed an increase in students’ knowledge of the Muisca worldview, traditions, and cultural values. Likewise, a greater appreciation of the Muysccubun language was observed as a fundamental element of cultural identity and linguistic heritage. Interaction with Indigenous knowledge keepers fostered intercultural dialogue and enabled students to recognize ancestral knowledge as a legitimate form of understanding and learning. Similarly, collaborative activities strengthened communication, creativity, research, and teamwork skills. In conclusion, the proposal demonstrated that intercultural education is an effective strategy for promoting respect for cultural diversity, strengthening students’ cultural identity, and contributing to the preservation of ancestral knowledge and languages. Furthermore, it highlighted the role of the school as a space for inclusion, cultural recognition, and social transformation through the dialogue of knowledge, fostering the development of critical, participatory citizens committed to the protection of Colombia’s cultural heritage.