Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Tesis
Tesis
Bonao Campus
Faculty of Humanities
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Table of Contents
1. Introduction …………………………………….……………………………………………………………….…….3
3. Methodology ………………………………………………………………….……………………………….……..6
8. Conclusions ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………19
9. References ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..20
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Introduction
In a paradisiacal corner of the Caribbean, where the sun radiates its splendor, the
Dominican Republic emerges, a land of charms and fervor. Its timeless history and
hospitable people give life to a sparkling educational system.
Meanwhile, across the ocean, the United States stands majestically, with its power
and brilliance. With a diverse culture and bustling cities, its educational system
inspires ambitious aspirations.
In the heart of the Dominican Republic, the rhythmic beats of merengue and bachata
pulsed. Emblematic figures like Juan Luis Guerra, with his guitar and melodies, used
to nourish the soul and exalted poetry.
In parallel, in the United States, the cultural scene dazzled with stars like Michael
Jackson, whose music captivated hearts. Cinema, with icons like Tom Cruise,
offered an escape to unforgettable and fascinating adventures.
In those golden times, education was revered as a precious jewel, coveted by minds
hungry for knowledge and skill. Young people, in their quest for wisdom, yearned to
forge a destiny filled with triumphs and greatness.
The flame of learning burned brightly, fueled by the dedication of teachers who
served as beacons of wisdom and guidance. With effort and sacrifice, academic
excellence is pursued, with the firm conviction of leaving an indelible mark on
society. Education stood as the fundamental pillar to open doors to a promising
future full of opportunities. In both countries, prestigious universities and renowned
schools served as sanctuaries of knowledge, where the leaders of tomorrow were
nurtured.
In the present era, the Dominican educational system faces challenges on its daily
journey. Long-awaited reforms, in search of excellence, strive for equity and provide
new experiences.
Disparities persist on the horizon, affecting regional gaps that undermine equality.
Despite efforts to improve quality. Voices of discontent subtly intertwine with these
challenges, echoing a call for a fairer and more equitable education, a long path
towards equality remains.
Meanwhile, in the United States, diversity stands as a pillar, with a gaze of novelty.
Educational options unfold splendidly, from traditional to homeschooling, with
enthusiasm.
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Technology, an ally in the classroom, shines brightly, opening new frontiers of
learning enthusiastically. However, the pandemic has left a shadow, highlighting
digital divides and marking a challenge.
On both sides of the vast ocean, these countries, in constant challenge, become
everyday occurrences. Challenges and opportunities, in a journey without end, seek
to prepare minds for an ideal future.
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Theoretical Framework
The education system of the Dominican Republic is organized into three levels:
primary, secondary, and higher education. Primary education is compulsory and free,
consisting of eight years divided into two cycles of four years each. Secondary
education is also free and consists of four years, divided into two cycles of two years
each: basic and middle. Higher education includes universities and higher education
institutions, offering a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.
The education system in the United States is diverse and decentralized, with shared
responsibility between the federal, state, and local governments. It comprises three
levels: primary, secondary, and higher education. Primary and secondary education is
compulsory and generally organized into 12 grades, starting with kindergarten and
culminating in the twelfth grade. Higher education includes a wide range of
institutions, such as public and private universities, community colleges, and
specialized universities, offering undergraduate and graduate programs.
Structure of the Education System: The stages, duration, and structure of the
education systems of both countries will be compared, including the organization of
primary, secondary, and higher education.
Funding and Resources: The education funding systems, including public and private
investment, fund distribution mechanisms, and resources available to support
education in both countries, will be compared.
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Methodology
Data Collection and Analysis Methods:
In this study, a mixed-methods approach will be utilized to collect and analyze data
from both qualitative and quantitative sources. Qualitative data will be gathered
through literature review, documentary analysis, and interviews with education
experts and stakeholders. Quantitative data will be obtained from national
educational databases, statistical reports, and relevant research studies. The
triangulation of data from multiple sources will enhance the reliability and validity of
the findings.
The comparative approach used in this study will involve a systematic analysis of
similarities and differences between the education systems of the Dominican
Republic and the United States. Comparative frameworks and models will guide the
examination of structural elements, policies, practices, and outcomes in both
contexts. The focus will be on identifying patterns, trends, and variations that shed
light on the strengths, challenges, and opportunities present in each system. The
comparative analysis will be conducted iteratively, allowing for a comprehensive
understanding of the complexities and nuances of each education system.
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Contextualization of the topic:
Understanding the educational systems of different nations is pivotal in shaping
global perspectives on learning and development. A particularly illuminating
comparison lies between the United States and the Dominican Republic. The United
States boasts a diverse and renowned higher education landscape, comprising both
public and private institutions. In contrast, the Dominican Republic faces challenges
in establishing a cohesive national university model. These disparities highlight the
necessity of comprehensively examining both systems to discern their strengths,
weaknesses, and implications for educational access, quality, and international
collaboration.
This study aims to elucidate the key differences and similarities between the higher
education systems of the United States and the Dominican Republic. By analyzing
factors such as structure, accessibility, affordability, quality, and internationalization,
the research seeks to attain a nuanced understanding of each system's functioning
and its impact on educational outcomes and opportunities. Through this
comparative analysis, we intend to identify areas for improvement and collaboration
to enhance the effectiveness and inclusivity of higher education in both countries.
Comparing the educational systems of the United States and the Dominican
Republic holds significant importance for several reasons. Firstly, it provides insights
into the strengths and weaknesses of each system, informing policy decisions and
educational reforms aimed at enhancing access, equity, and quality. Secondly, such
comparisons facilitate cross-cultural understanding and collaboration, fostering
opportunities for international partnerships and exchange programs. Lastly,
understanding the nuances of different educational systems contributes to broader
discussions on global education trends and challenges, benefiting students,
educators, policymakers, and researchers worldwide
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Findings and conclusions of the research
The main difference between college and university in the American
context:
In the United States, the main difference between colleges and universities lies in
their academic offerings and degree levels. Generally, a college typically offers
undergraduate programs and awards bachelor's degrees, while a university offers
both undergraduate and graduate programs, including master's and doctoral
degrees. Universities often have multiple colleges or schools within them, each
specializing in different academic fields. Additionally, universities typically have
larger campuses, more extensive resources, and conduct more research compared
to colleges.
State colleges, also known as public colleges or universities, are funded by state
governments and often offer lower tuition rates for in-state residents. These
institutions are typically larger and may have multiple campuses within a state. State
colleges often prioritize access to education for state residents and may have
specific admissions criteria for in-state versus out-of-state students.
On the other hand, private colleges are funded by private sources, such as tuition
fees, donations, and endowments. They tend to have higher tuition costs compared
to state colleges but may offer more financial aid opportunities. Private colleges
often have smaller class sizes, more personalized attention, and may specialize in
particular academic areas or religious affiliations.
In the United States, the educational system typically includes grades K-12 for
primary and secondary education, followed by higher education at the college or
university level. The degrees awarded in the US system include:
● Associate's degree (usually two years of study)
● Bachelor's degree (usually four years of study)
● Master's degree (additional 1-3 years of study beyond a
bachelor's degree)
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● Doctoral degree (additional 3-7 years of study beyond a
bachelor's degree)
The educational system in the Dominican Republic is organized into levels including
early childhood, primary, secondary, and higher education. In contrast, the
educational system in the United States is divided into preschool, primary, secondary,
and postsecondary education, including higher education in universities and
colleges. Both systems have similarities in terms of education levels but differ in the
structure and organization of each level, as well as in the duration and graduation
requirements.
Graduation rates in the Dominican Republic have improved in recent decades but still
face challenges in terms of school dropout and access to higher education. In the
United States, graduation rates vary by state and demographic group, with significant
disparities among students of different races and socioeconomic levels. The quality
of education and student support plays a crucial role in graduation rates in both
systems.
Educational policies in the Dominican Republic and the United States have evolved to
address challenges such as equity, quality, and access to education. In the
Dominican Republic, educational reforms have sought to improve the quality of
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education and expand access to higher education. In the United States, educational
policies have addressed issues such as academic standards, teacher performance
evaluation, and equity in school funding. However, challenges persist in the
implementation and effectiveness of these policies in both systems.
State governments have authority over public colleges and universities within their
jurisdictions. They provide funding, establish tuition policies, and may set
requirements for admission, curriculum standards, and accreditation. State higher
education agencies often coordinate with institutions to ensure compliance with
state regulations and to allocate resources effectively.
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Individual colleges and universities have their governance structures, including
boards of trustees or regents, administrators, and faculty senates or councils. These
institutions establish their academic programs, admission criteria, tuition rates, and
policies governing student conduct and academic standards. They also seek
accreditation from regional or national accrediting agencies to ensure the quality and
credibility of their programs.
Comparison between the US higher education system and the
Dominican system:
The US higher education system and the Dominican system share some similarities
but also have significant differences:
● Structure: Both systems offer undergraduate and graduate programs, but the
structure and organization may differ. In the US, universities often have
multiple colleges or schools within them, while in the Dominican Republic,
universities may offer programs through faculties or departments.
● Funding: In the US, higher education institutions receive funding from federal
and state governments, tuition fees, donations, and endowments. In the
Dominican Republic, funding sources may include government subsidies,
tuition fees, and private donations.
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Overall, the US higher education system tends to be more decentralized and diverse,
with a greater emphasis on academic freedom and institutional autonomy. In
contrast, the Dominican system may have a more centralized structure with stronger
government oversight and control over higher education institutions.
Students of color, particularly Black, Indigenous, and Latinx students, often face
systemic barriers to access, retention, and success in higher education. These
barriers can manifest in various forms, including admissions discrimination, racial
profiling, microaggressions, and disparities in academic outcomes.
It exists as a societal issue in the Dominican Republic, and its manifestations can
also be observed within the college environment. Discrimination based on race or
ethnicity may occur in various forms, including unequal treatment, stereotyping, or
lack of representation and inclusivity in educational settings. While efforts may be
made to address these issues, systemic challenges and biases can still persist
within Dominican colleges, affecting the experiences of students and faculty from
marginalized racial or ethnic groups
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Tuition and fees at both public and private universities have risen significantly in
recent years, outpacing inflation and wage growth. Additionally, other expenses such
as room and board, textbooks, and personal expenses can further contribute to the
overall cost of attendance.
While financial aid programs, including grants, scholarships, and loans, aim to make
college more affordable, many students still graduate with substantial student loan
debt. This debt burden can have long-term financial consequences and may deter
some students from pursuing higher education or completing their degrees.
The rising cost of college has led to concerns about access and equity, particularly
for students from low-income backgrounds or underrepresented minority groups.
Efforts to address college affordability include expanding need-based financial aid,
reducing tuition and fees, increasing state funding for public universities, and
advocating for policy reforms to lower the overall cost of higher education.
The cost of attending universities can vary depending on factors such as the
institution, program of study, and financial aid availability. While some public
universities may offer more affordable tuition fees, private universities tend to have
higher costs that may pose financial challenges for the average family.
Ivy League
The term "Ivy League" refers to a group of eight prestigious private universities in the
United States known for their academic excellence, selective admissions processes,
and long-standing traditions. The Ivy League institutions are:
● Brown University
● Columbia University
● Cornell University
● Dartmouth College
● Harvard University
● University of Pennsylvania
● Princeton University
● Yale University
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The term "Ivy League" originated from the Ivy-covered walls of these universities'
historic buildings. While the Ivy League schools compete athletically in various
sports, the term primarily denotes their academic and social prestige.
How are American colleges governed:
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federal higher education policies and programs, including student
financial aid and civil rights enforcement.
Types of organizations to associate college students:
● Academic Clubs and Honor Societies: These clubs are centered around
specific academic disciplines or fields of study. They provide opportunities for
students to engage in academic discussions, network with peers and
professionals, and participate in related activities.
● Social and Special Interest Clubs: These clubs cater to students' hobbies,
interests, and passions outside of academics. Examples include clubs related
to sports, arts, music, hobbies, gaming, outdoor activities, and community
service.
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● Political and Advocacy Groups: These organizations focus on political
engagement, activism, and advocacy. They educate students about political
issues, mobilize voter registration and participation efforts, and advocate for
social and policy changes on campus and beyond.
● Recreational and Wellness Clubs: These clubs promote physical and mental
well-being among students. They offer opportunities for fitness, outdoor
recreation, mindfulness, stress relief, and other wellness activities to help
students maintain a healthy lifestyle.
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research resources. In comparison, the lack of doctoral programs in the
Dominican Republic and the low proportion of faculty with doctoral degrees
may affect the quality of higher education in the country.
Internationalization and collaboration: The internationalization of higher
education is an important element in both countries. While the United States
attracts students from around the world and fosters international
collaboration in research and academic programs, the Dominican Republic
seeks to strengthen its collaboration with foreign universities to develop
doctoral programs and enhance the quality of higher education.
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Challenges and Opportunities:
The educational systems in both the Dominican Republic and the United States face
significant challenges. In the Dominican Republic, issues such as access to quality
education, regional disparities, and high dropout rates pose major challenges.
Similarly, in the United States, disparities in educational outcomes based on
socioeconomic status, racial inequalities, and funding disparities are pressing
issues.
Despite these challenges, there are opportunities for improvement and collaboration
between the two systems. Both countries can benefit from sharing best practices,
resources, and innovative educational approaches. Collaborative efforts in teacher
training, curriculum development, and technology integration can enhance
educational quality and equity in both nations.
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Conclusion
The comparison between the educational systems of the Dominican Republic and
the United States reveals several key findings. Both countries face challenges related
to access, equity, and quality in education, albeit in different contexts. While the
Dominican Republic struggles with regional disparities and limited resources, the
United States grapples with socioeconomic inequalities and racial disparities.
Despite these challenges, there are opportunities for improvement and collaboration
between the two systems. Sharing best practices, resources, and innovative
approaches can enhance educational outcomes and promote equity in both nations.
Moreover, addressing socioeconomic and cultural factors is crucial to ensure that all
students have equal access to quality education.
The implications of these findings extend beyond academia to policy and practice.
Policymakers and educators must prioritize investments in education, particularly in
marginalized communities, to close the achievement gap and foster social mobility.
Additionally, fostering collaboration between countries can lead to mutually
beneficial outcomes and promote global understanding and cooperation.
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References
ACE (2019). U.S. HIGHER EDUCATION A BRIEF GUIDE. American Council on
Education. Washington, DC 20036.
Helms, R. M., Brajkovic, L., Godwin, K. A., Evers, N., Mihut, G., & Zhang, Y. (2019).
American Council on Education. Washington, DC: American Council on Education.
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UNESCO. (2003). Informe Nacional sobre Educación Superior en República
Dominicana. Santo Domingo: Santillana.
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