What a display of ignorance. However, I am not surprised since in my experience those interviewed represent the average common knowledge level of intelligence in the DR. These folks represent what it is to lack basic education and it is sad.
In what country is the Panama Canal? A blank look is the response when the question was asked to the first passerby? Really? What language do they speak in Spain? A blank look? There should be no confusion with Catalan. Please. Those asked would not even know Catalan exists. In what country is the city of Boston? Lost. However, many long to leave the DR but clearly have no clue where they are going. What is the largest country in South America? Blank look. Have they even heard of South America? Growing up my parents talked about all South American countries on a regular basis and countries in general. It was a topic of conversation.
All par for the course. When you have a lousy sub standard education system, children have a few hours a day of classroom time in which they actually learn, incompetent educators, and low motivation to learn by both teachers and students that is what you get which is the end result of the average. It seems like some don't even know that they do indeed speak Spanish. The day to day in a country like the DR is tough because of what you see displayed in the video. Imagine in all scenarios that is average level of knowledge that you have to deal with on a regular basis. That can be frustrating.
When will the DR take education seriously? I am not talking about the privileged that get to study abroad or go to private school in the DR. I am talking about the average student and the opportunities they have to learn.
-MP.