Indigenous sciences often use a qualitative, integrated approach that results in a holistic understanding of how to live in harmony with nature. Research shows that Indigenous students perform better when educators provide a culturally responsive curriculum that combines Indigenous ways of knowing nature with Western scientific knowledge. Indigenous educators refer to this as “Two-Eyed Seeing” — a way of learning that leverages the strengths, perspectives, and knowledge of both cultures.
However, in most school districts, Indigenous students study science, math, and technology from a largely Western perspective; Indigenous cultures and ways of understanding STEM subjects are not represented in curriculums. As a result, many Indigenous students feel alienated, and opt out of science and math classes once they reach high school. How do we engage these indigenous learners and increase their participation?
Introducing InSTEM: Indigenous Youth in Stem. It is a national program that incorporate traditional practices of living into educational pedagogy. It aligns land-based learning to western STEM experiences and renew indigenous identity and perspectives. In the end, it fosters skills and confidence for aboriginal youth to apply to future careers in STEM.