Author:
The paper titled “Effective Indigenization of Curriculum in Canada and New Zealand: Towards Culturally Responsive Pedagogies” enlightened me that in order to create inclusivity in the teaching and learning process where students feel sense of belonging, valued, and respected, it is essential to embed indigenous ways of knowing in to teaching. Howe et al.(2021) have claimed that “it is teachers who ultimately can lead the way to advancing indigenous perspectives, reversing decades of assimilation policies, evoking social change, and providing the bridge between government rhetoric and meaningful student learning”
As per with the realization I gained after researching on how to embed the indigenous ways of knowing into western education system to promote inclusivity , the best way is to connect with indigenous community and gaining hands on experiencing by actively engaging and participating in their cultural, traditional, educational sharing and bringing that knowledge to teaching and learning environment will facilitate a culturally responsive classroom for the learners. I believe that the teachers should have a thorough knowledge and understanding of the indigenous perspectives in order to integrate them with the teaching process. While the European education system prioritize the technological development along with scientific, numerical and critical thinking indigenous knowledge contribute to maintain the balance between rapid advancement of technological development and living with nature that leads to sustainability.
In Joanne Brown’s discussion on Indigenous Ways of living, she highlighted the concept of ” All my relations” that refers to the interconnectedness of all living being and it reflects the indigenous pedagogies by emphasizing the importance of wholistic, relational, and experiential learning. We can share this concept with our students so that they are encouraged to connect with their environment, community, and heritage and this concept stimulate them to see themselves as part of a large web of relationships that includes both human and non- human beings. Story telling, experiential learning via indigenous community engagement, field trips to explore the real life examples of how indigenous ways of knowing and ecological knowledge are applied in their community can be considered as effective ways of integrating culturally responsive pedagogies in to teaching process. They also helps to foster a better understanding among teachers, students and community.
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).
Hi Oushani,
I appreciate your ideas and critical thinking which are very essential for creating inclusivity in the teaching and learning process. In the case of embedding indigenous ways of knowing into teaching, students feel a sense of belonging with respect. I also believe that a mutual connection with the indigenous community and participation in their cultural, traditional, and educational systems is a meaningful way to know how to embed the indigenous ways of knowing into the Western education system to create inclusiveness.
On the other hand, by the term “All my relations” you thoughtfully explained the interconnectedness of all living beings. To make a sound and happy environment we should emphasize creating a holistic relationship with our surroundings which includes both human and non-human beings. Learning through storytelling and hands-on activities via indigenous community engagement we can get a better understanding of the effective ways of integrating culturally responsive pedagogies into the teaching process.
Oushani Your reflection adeptly emphasizes the crucial integration of indigenous ways of knowing into education to foster inclusivity and respect. Advocating for teachers to actively engage with indigenous communities aligns with effective practices in cultivating culturally responsive pedagogies. Highlighting the concept of “All my relations” adds depth, emphasizing holistic learning and interconnectedness. Your proposed strategies, like storytelling and experiential learning through community engagement and field trips, offer practical approaches for educators. However, further exploration of potential challenges, such as cultural sensitivity and ongoing collaboration with indigenous communities, could enrich the discussion. Overall, your reflection showcases a commendable commitment to creating culturally responsive classrooms where students feel valued and connected to their environment and heritage.