Curriculum and Structure:
* Emphasis on basic skills: The curriculum focused heavily on foundational literacy and numeracy, with less emphasis on specialized subjects like science and technology compared to modern curricula. Religious instruction was often integrated into the daily schedule.
* Missionary influence: Many schools were run by Christian missions (Catholic, Congregational Christian Church in Samoa, Methodist), and their values and teachings significantly shaped the school environment and curriculum. Discipline was often strict.
* Samoan language: While English was taught, Samoan was the primary language of instruction in many primary schools, reflecting the importance of preserving the local culture and language.
* Limited resources: Textbooks and learning materials were often scarce, and schools lacked the advanced technology and facilities found in Western countries. Overcrowded classrooms were common.
* Separate schools: There might have been a degree of segregation between different denominations or social classes, although this aspect varied across the islands.
School Environment and Culture:
* Respect for elders and teachers: A strong hierarchical structure existed, with teachers holding a position of high respect and authority. Students were expected to show deference to elders and teachers.
* Community involvement: Schools often had strong links to the local community. Parents and villagers might be involved in school activities, maintenance, or fundraising.
* Traditional practices: Some traditional Samoan customs and practices might have been integrated into school life, such as communal activities or ceremonies.
* Discipline: Discipline was often stricter than what's seen in many modern schools. Corporal punishment wasn't uncommon, though its prevalence would have varied.
* Uniform: Students generally wore uniforms, often reflecting the school's religious affiliation.
* Limited extracurricular activities: Extracurricular activities were likely less developed than in more developed countries, although sports like rugby and athletics might have played a part.
Access to Education:
* Rural-urban disparity: Access to education was likely less even than it is today, with rural areas facing greater challenges in terms of school facilities and teacher availability.
* Gender disparity: While efforts were underway to improve gender equality in education, some disparities likely persisted, particularly in access to secondary and higher education.
It's crucial to note that this is a generalized picture. The experience of school life in Western Samoa before 1990 would have varied depending on the specific school, its location, its religious affiliation, and the socio-economic background of the students. However, the overall tone was one of a more traditional, resource-constrained, and community-focused system deeply rooted in Samoan culture and influenced by missionary education.