Tag Archives: worldview

Entry #12: MathCentral Database

(http://mathcentral.uregina.ca/RR/database/RR.09.00/treptau1/index.html)

This University of Regina project has compiled a series of games drawn from a variety of Aboriginal cultures that could be played with students, including a section on games that support specific math skills. Each game page includes a very brief cultural-historical background to the culture of origin, original and adapted materials, and instructions. The source of the research for each game is also linked, providing potential extensions to one’s own research. This resource provides small ways that teachers can integrate Aboriginal culture naturally into classroom activities. There is also the potential for students to conduct their own research into additional activities not included on the website. Such games could be an excellent way to help bridge the perceived gap between cultures by including alternatives to Western approaches to learning.

5 Helpful links-Indigenous Ways of Knowing

I hope you find some of these links useful as you take your journey.

Cyber-Traveler’s Reflections (Module 1)

http://www.native-art-in-canada.com/woodland-art-symbolism.html

The Meaning of the Woodland Art Symbolism. When Norval Morrisseau first began painting, his intention was to re-introduce the Anishnaabe world view into the contemporary consciousness. The Ojibwa culture had been all but obliterated by the imposition of external governance and the influence of Christian churches. Morrisseau painted the spiritual reality that had been the foundation of Ojibwa life for thousands of years. Raised by his shaman grandfather, Norval was familiar with the symbols used on the midewiwin birchbark scrolls.

http://archive.millelacsband.com/Page_culture.aspx?id=125

An elder of the Mille Lac Band of Ojibwe Reservation writes about the culture and traditions surrounding death and funerals.  He writes from his own experiences.

http://www.cbc.ca/archives/entry/alanis-obomsawin-tells-the-legend-of-nanabozho

A radio story found in CBC digital archives.  “The Legend of Nanabohzo”  is the story of Nokomis, her daughter Winona, and Winona’s son Nanabozho. It’s one of thousands of legends Canada’s aboriginals have passed down the generations to tell stories about tribal ancestors and to teach children how to behave. Storyteller Alanis Obamsawin relates the Ojibwa legend for CBC Radio.

http://www.nosm.ca/communities/aboriginal_affairs/general.aspx?id=4102

On this website The Northern Ontario School of Medicine explains how the medical school engages and works with Indigenous Elders.  For NOSM Indigenous students, the presence and work of Elders can be a key factor which contributes to student success.

http://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/plants-native-uses/

This article outlines the many uses of plants to the Indigenous Peoples. These include food, medicine, utility and spiritual.

Module 4, Post 2 – Teaching Resources

One aspect that has come up in the discussions is the point that many people would like to improve our practice but are at a loss when it comes to finding resources or information to help us expand our ideas.

This website is designed specifically for educators looking to expand their knowledge about First Nations, Inuit, and Metis worldviews. Their mission is to help teachers infuse these worldviews into teaching. This is a beautifully designed website, and absolutely packed with information.

http://www.learnalberta.ca/content/aswt/

The Yukon First Nations Education Resource has curriculum type documents including lesson plans and teacher guides.

http://www.yesnet.yk.ca/firstnations/index.html

Catherine