Learning recognizes the role of Indigenous knowledge

Indigenous knowledge is a broad description of living, learning and existing that is difficult to summarize in any concrete way. It is about learning how to live in the world in ways that are healthy for yourself, for the community, and for the land.

On the advice from an Elder, we posed the question of how Non-Indigenous educators can incorporate Indigenous practices in their spaces. Sharing Circles, Medicine Wheel Teachings, Smudging, and Drumming are all practices that non-Indigenous learners can use, if done respectfully. Some Non-Indigenous instructors have been advised by Elders on how to respectfully incorporate these things in their teaching. However, it should be noted that the Non-Indigenous culture has taken a tremendous amount from Indigenous cultures, and to share this with your students would be dependent on first the teaching and support of an Elder, as well as the comfort of the students in the space. If someone in the classroom is comfortable leading ceremony in the space, let that person take the role of a Knowledge Keeper within the space. If an Elder is available, this is always preferable.

If you were to explore Smudging or Medicine Wheel teachings in a classroom, encourage your students to share their knowledge and experience, and take the role of a Knowledge Keeper. It can be very delicate but not impossible for Non-Indigenous staff to explore cultural teachings. First feel free to ask Elders what teachings you are welcome to share. Always encourage your students to learn and to take opportunities to share their experience. Be aware that you must always respect the collective knowledge of the group and the community.

Suggestions for Incorporating Indigenous Knowledge:

• Use Indigenous content where possible; stories written by and for Indigenous people
• Encourage Elders and Knowledge Keepers to be involved in the design of programs and activities. When using Indigenous content realize that some students of Indigenous descent have negative memories and triggers related to the use of their language and culture
• Respect hesitation and body language
• Use the Medicine Wheel concept in your classroom. Students are spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical beings
• Welcome family into your learning space wherever possible
• Don’t hide behind a role. Be authentic, be patient, and be compassionate

Sample Learning Activities:

• Family Tree making using the computer
• Incorporate storytelling and journaling in literacy
• Sharing circles
• Ask students to identify strategies by exploring learning that has worked in the past
• Hands on activities work well
• Teamwork and peer teaching activities