Decolonising the Curriculum at Trinity College Dublin
What Does Decolonising the Curriculum Mean?
Decolonising the curriculum is not simply about adding diverse content; it is about critically examining the ways in which colonial histories, Eurocentrism, and systemic inequalities shape knowledge production and dissemination. This process includes:
-
Recognising and addressing colonial legacies in academic disciplines.
-
Challenging dominant narratives and amplifying underrepresented voices.
-
Creating space for Indigenous, non-Western, and marginalised knowledge systems.
-
Encouraging critical thinking about power structures in education.
Why It Matters
Higher education institutions have historically played a role in legitimising and perpetuating colonial ideologies. At Trinity, we acknowledge this legacy and strive to cultivate an academic environment that values diverse epistemologies and perspectives. A decolonised curriculum enriches learning experiences by:
-
Providing students with a more comprehensive understanding of global histories and cultures.
-
Encouraging critical engagement with issues of race, power, and inequality.
-
Preparing graduates to navigate an increasingly interconnected and diverse world.
How You Can Contribute
Decolonising the curriculum is a collective effort that requires engagement from students, faculty, and staff. You can contribute by:
-
Advocating for diverse and inclusive course materials.
-
Engaging in discussions and initiatives on decolonisation.
-
Participating in workshops and research projects related to inclusive education.
Additional Resources
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1478929918808459
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aZdc9q46O2M
https://www.soas.ac.uk/decolonising-philosophy-curriculum-toolkit
https://www.timeshighereducation.com/campus/decolonising-curriculum-how-do-i-get-started