Education and Literacy in the Development and Transmission of Chinese Yao Nationality Folk Songs

Abstract

Chinese Yao Nationality Folk Songs are a distinctive cultural treasure thriving within the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, intimately intertwined with the lives and traditions of the Yao people. The objective of this study is to investigate the role of education and literacy in the development and transmission of Chinese Yao Nationality folk songs in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. The research site, Jinxiu Yao Autonomous County, serves as a culturally significant backdrop, chosen for its accessibility and cultural relevance to the research objectives. To gain comprehensive insights into this complex topic, three key informants with specialized knowledge and cultural insights were meticulously selected. An array of research tools, including observation forms, interview forms, and questionnaires, were employed to gather data and analyze various aspects of Yao Nationality folk songs. The results reveal the multifaceted phases of development these songs have undergone, from their sacred origins to their role in communal celebrations and emotional expression. The transmission of these songs is showcased through a blend of oral traditions and written records, with a contemporary integration of media and technology. This research suggests the need for a balanced approach to preserving cultural heritage while embracing modernity.