Value of respect for quichua language and culture: concept of Sumak Kawsay

The moral values of good living Sumak Kawsay related to the respect for the Quichua language and culture represent a fundamental tool in Ecuadorian society and in school context. Therefore, the main objective of this study seeks to learn more about common and differentiating elements from the opinions of teachers and from the contents of textbooks in Ecuador. The research project was carried out in an indigenous community with 60 indigenous teachers of the rural school Mushauk Rimak located in San Lucas. A qualitative method was applied to the analysis of semi-open interviews in Spanish with the participating teachers. The results indicate that San Lucas teachers impart to students the values of respect for language and culture associated with the moral values of Sumak Kawsay. This aspect of the program is also reflected in the teaching materials in Quichua, component of the implementation of bilingual-intercultural education in the indigenous communities at the national level. The conclusion of the study points to the value of Sumak Kawsay as reflected in the content of textbooks and the efforts of teachers to revitalize the Quichua language and transmit the language to students despite the possibility that the bilingual program does not enjoy acceptance by all parents in this locality.