While searching for information about Traditional Ecological Knowledge in post-secondary for my final project, I discovered a hands-on science field course that was developed in partnership between the University of Windsor and the Walpole Island First Nation. Part of my excitement about this stems from the recent news that I may be able to participate in my department’s annual biology field course as a botany instructor in the coming years. I would very much like to implement activities for the students that focus on respect and understanding of the local landscape and was inspired by approach that is described in the video below.
Hi Jacey, thank you for sharing this video about a hands-on science field course that is offered at the University of Windsor! It was really interesting and refreshing to observe how the curriculum went beyond hard scientific data analyses and incorporated land-based experiential learning activities. I appreciate how this traditional ecological knowledge field course is an opportunity to embrace unity between Indigenous and Western knowledge systems. Consider checking out the e-book below if you are interested in exploring more insights and examples regarding the cultural and practical wisdom of Indigenous science!
Snively, G. & Williams, L. (2016). Knowing home: Braiding Indigenous science with Western science. BCcampus. https://pressbooks.bccampus.ca/knowinghome