There isn't one singular "Education Decree 1863." The year 1863 marks a period of significant educational reform under the Spanish colonial government, and multiple related decrees and laws were passed around that time. These aimed to:
* Establish a more standardized and centralized educational system: Before 1863, education in the Philippines was largely decentralized and inconsistent, with varying levels of access and quality depending on the region and the availability of private or religious schools. The reforms sought to create a more uniform system across the archipelago.
* Expand access to primary education: While not guaranteeing universal access, the reforms attempted to expand the reach of primary education, particularly focusing on basic literacy in Spanish.
* Introduce secular education: While the Catholic Church retained a significant influence on education, the reforms aimed to introduce a degree of secularization, reducing the Church's almost complete monopoly on educational provision. This was a gradual and incomplete process.
* Improve teacher training: Recognizing the need for better-trained teachers, the reforms included provisions for teacher training and the establishment of normal schools (teacher training colleges).
* Create a more structured curriculum: The reforms introduced a more structured and formalized curriculum, emphasizing the teaching of Spanish, basic arithmetic, and religious instruction.
Key aspects to consider:
* Incomplete implementation: While ambitious, the implementation of these reforms was often incomplete and inconsistent across the archipelago due to various factors, including limited resources, resistance from some local communities, and the vast geographical expanse of the Philippines.
* Focus on Spanish: A primary goal was to promote Spanish language proficiency to facilitate colonial administration and integration.
* Limited access for the majority: The reforms primarily benefited the elite and those in urban areas. Access for the vast majority of the rural population remained limited.
In summary, the "Education Decree of 1863" represents a significant attempt by the Spanish colonial government to reform and centralize the Philippine education system. While it brought about some improvements in the standardization and reach of education, it also fell short of its goals and reflected the colonial context of its creation. To understand it fully, one would need to delve into the specific decrees and laws enacted around 1863, examining their individual provisions and impact. You'll likely find more precise information by searching for specific decrees passed around that time within the context of Spanish colonial Philippine history.