Author:
Acknowledgement and Adaptability with Community Engagement
Through the reading, I understand that every institution operates within a unique social, political, and cultural context, which influences the implementation of culturally responsive pedagogies. Culturally responsive pedagogies offer flexibility and adaptability to accommodate diverse student populations and contexts. In this case, teachers need to be open to a different approach and willing to modify their teaching practices based on students’ backgrounds and needs. After reading their stories, I realized that in my current learning process, I acknowledge their land for allowing me to learn which is helpful to adapt to the new culture with an effective engagement. Meaningful engagement with Indigenous communities is essential for successful implementation. According to Howe et al (2021), “Educational foundational courses and methods courses each has classroom visits by Local Elders to teach talking circles, storytelling, and tobacco ties”. Sometimes, our instructor invites Indigenous people which is so valuable for building partnerships with Indigenous elders, knowledge-keepers, and community members as well as support for integrating Indigenous ways of knowing into the curriculum.
From Joanne Brown’s discussion on Indigenous Ways of Knowing and the concept “All My Relations” I understand that this concept embodies the interconnectedness of all living beings and emphasizes relationships with others, including human and non-human entities. By acknowledging the interconnectedness of various disciplines, cultures, and perspectives we can incorporate a holistic approach to teaching and learning. Through this concept, we can promote empathy and respect for others by encouraging students to consider diverse viewpoints and experiences. I believe that the concept of “All My Relations” highlights environmental awareness to make a connection between humans and the natural world. After all, I acknowledge that including those types of readings and discussions in the curriculum is so much more effective in knowing about the Indigenous community and their culture.
Reference
Howe, E. R., Johnson, S., & Te Momo, F. (2021). Effective indigenization of curriculum in Canada and New Zealand: Towards culturally responsive pedagogies. Journal of Contemporary Issues in Education, 16(1).
In order to serve a varied student body, your reflection skillfully emphasizes the significance of comprehending the particular social, political, and cultural contexts within which institutions function. It also underscores the necessity of culturally responsive pedagogies. Your acknowledgment of the land and interaction with Indigenous groups show a remarkable dedication to assimilating into new cultures and developing deep relationships. Incorporating Indigenous perspectives into the curriculum through classroom visits by Elders from the community and discussions on ideas like “All My Relations” gives the curriculum more depth and fosters respect and empathy for different points of view. Nonetheless, the conversation might be improved by delving deeper into useful tactics for incorporating Indigenous knowledge systems into classroom instruction. All things considered, your analysis demonstrates a careful comprehension of the value of cultural diversity in education and the revolutionary possibilities of including Indigenous perspectives in the curriculum.
I totally agree with your claim of highlighting the importance of culturally responsive pedagogies in education and adaptation of them in to the curriculum to promote diversity and inclusion among students. With regards to my reflection, the integration of indigenous ways of knowing in to prevailing curriculum should be implemented by nourishing constant connectivity with the indigenous community. It is highly important to facilitate students with the genuine exposure to indigenous culture, practices and language. I think story telling, elder community engagement, cultural mapping, field trips to explore the real settings of indigenous dwellings would be helpful in bringing the indigenous ways of knowing into curriculum in order to create more inclusive environment. I do agree with your opinion with regards to Joan Brown’s term” All my relation” because we have been witnessing the negative impact of devaluing and disrespecting other living being including nature as well and forgetting that human are only part of nature and any harm the man causes to nature comes in return to man. We should incorporate this view with the curriculum to foster a healthy relationship between younger generation and nature.