Author Archives: Empch

Module 2, Post 5: What does failure mean to you?

You might be wondering, what does failure have to do with Indigenization?

I want to share this TedTalks video with all of you. Although this video is not about Indigenizing post-secondary curriculums, it is very relatable, especially for a non-Indigenous educator like myself. Akuyoe Graham’s wonderful speech is about living an authentic life (TedxTalks, 2018). She talks about redefining failure, listening to others, and giving space. She offers so much that I could incorporate into my approach with Indigenizing a curriculum. I shouldn’t be afraid to be myself. I should bring what I know (and what I don’t know) to the classroom. And I should be okay with feeling vulnerable.

Reference:

TedxTalks. (2018 March, 1). Living authentic life: Akuyoe Graham [Video]. Youtube.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vcQSw28l6QI

Module 2, Post 4: Storytelling

Deep Healing Circles | Caroline Dupont

                                                                                                                                                  Photo: Clear Being

Storytelling

Taking the time to listen to stories from many different perspectives is helping me feel more comfortable with Indigenization. I am excited to share this online storytelling series resource.

Session Videos

The conversation about Indigenizing higher education can go in many different directions. This storytelling series talks about how to make the classroom environment safe and inclusive for all students, for example, moving away from the “square” classroom. This series also talks about what Indigenization means and I am starting to realize that there isn’t only one correct definition. Also, the idea that storytelling can be incorporated in all curriculums, including science, is encouraging for me to hear. As a dental hygiene educator, I can imagine how this would be a valuable opportunity for students to bring their experiences to the classroom. This may help make the content more meaningful and engaging for them.

I invite you to sit back and enjoy the many stories in this online series. I’m interested to hear what these stories teach you about Indigenization.

References:

Clear Being with Caroline Marie Dupont. Deep healing circles. https://www.carolinedupont.com/deep-healing-circles/

Thompson Rivers University. (2021). Towards Indigenizing higher ed. An online storytelling series. https://towards-indigenizing.trubox.ca/session-videos/

 

Module 2 Post 3: Indigenization is led by Indigenous people

As a non-Indigenous educator, I want to approach Indigenization carefully. I feel pressure making sure it is done properly. It helps me know that I can (and should) involve Indigenous people into the process. The “Indigenization is Indigenous” (Memorial University, 2019) article makes me realize that I should turn to Indigenous people for guidance and direction. Change is led by Indigenous people (Memorial University, 2019). I need to give room for Indigenous voices and remember that it is not just one voice, but rather an unanimous voice of their culture.

Reference:

Memorial University. (2019, February). Indigenization is Indigenous. Gazette. https://gazette.mun.ca/campus-and-community/indigenization-is-indigenous/

 

Module 2 Post 2: Indigenization – is a checklist sufficient?

What does Indigenization mean? Is Indigenization simply a matter of following a checklist? What is the desired outcomes of Indigenizing a post-secondary curriculum/institution? I believe these are important questions to consider in order to participate authentically in the Indigenization process. Pidgeon’s (2015) article considers the role of Indigenization in higher education to help overcome current disparities in education and societies for Indigenous peoples.

Reference:

Pidgeon, M. (2015). More than a checklist: Meaningful Indigenous inclusion in higher education. Cogitatio, 4(1), 77-91. https://www.proquest.com/docview/1778778383?https://www.proquest.com/sociology1/advanced?accountid=14656&pq-origsite=summon

Module 2 Post 1: Taking appropriate action

Non-Indigenous educators are encouraged to take responsibility to acknowledge our lack of knowledge, learn about Indigenous history, and take action. But it has to be done in the right way. We are often reminded that mistakes will happen and that fear shouldn’t stop us. Susan Dion talks about appropriation. I believe this means adopting elements of one culture by members of another culture. Susan also discusses teachers being empathic, which is good, but it has its limitations. She brings out interesting points in this video series. A few things that stood out for me included (Lakehead University, 2021):

  • Teachers need to teach from the position that they occupy.
  • If you live on this land, then you are in a relationship with Indigenous people.
  • We all share this country’s history.
  • We feel most comfortable talking about the past. This is troubling because Indigenous people are not just people of the past.

I encourage you to watch this video series. Is there anything that Susan brings out that would help make you feel more comfortable with the Indigenization process as a non-Indigenous educator?

https://www.lakeheadu.ca/teaching-commons/indigenous-pedagogies-epistemologies/exploring-indigenous-education-a-video-series

Reference:

Lakehead University. (2021). Exploring Indigenous education: A video series. Teaching Commons. https://www.lakeheadu.ca/teaching-commons/indigenous-pedagogies-epistemologies/exploring-indigenous-education-a-video-series

Module 1 Post 5 – start by learning the truth

As I research the Indigenous culture, I have noticed a common theme: it is important for Canadians to learn about Indigenous history and come to know the truth about colonization. As a child, I recall learning about Indigenous history in school. Their unique way of life seemed attractive and interesting. I don’t remember learning anything about the darker part of Canadian history. It’s possible I didn’t learn about this darker side because it was still taking place when I was young. I was just starting high school when the last residential school was closing its doors for the last time. I recognize the need to learn the complete history of our country, including the truth about the way Indigenous people were treated, and the pain and suffering it has caused them.

What do you currently know about Indigenous history? I have a hard time recognizing how I can make a difference until I understand the truth. I want to be open minded and remember that learning will always be ongoing. The following sources were helpful for me, but I know it’s just a start.

Neylan, S. (2018). Canada’s dark side: Indigenous peoples and Canada’s 150th celebration. Origins, 11(9), 1-2. https://origins.osu.edu/article/canada-s-dark-side-indigenous-peoples-and-canada-s-150th-celebration/page/0/1

Canada Guide (n.d.). The Indigenous peoples of Canada. Chapter 7. https://thecanadaguide.com/basics/aboriginals/

Al Jazeera English. (2017 June, 13). Canada’s dark secret. [Video]. Youtube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=peLd_jtMdrc

Module 1 Post 4 – Authentic Indigenous Voices

Are you a fan of CBCs Cross Country Checkup? You may recall a lively conversation they had a few years back about treaties, reconciliation and Indigenous history in Canada (CBC, 2017). There’s concern about Indigenous knowledge being lost and many myths are out there about Indigenous people. It is important that authentic Indigenous voices be heard. One way of doing this is by bringing guest speakers into the classroom. They need the opportunities to share their stories. As an educator, I briefly touched on Indigenous history in class. The conversation was very superficial and lacked meaning. Fortunately we had a wonderful guest speaker join us who was able to make the history come alive. Suddenly the knowledge had more meaning and purpose.

Reference:

CBC. (2017 April, 26). Treaties, reconciliation and Indigenous history in Canada [Video]. Youtube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9KJM3pjvKg

Module 1 Post 3 – Reconciliation starts with inward reflection

                                                                                                                Policy Options (2021)

As a nonIndigenous educator in Canada, I have uncertainties about how to contribute to the process of Indigenization. I feel uncomfortable, confused, even fearful. In a short article, Kory Wilson says that everyone plays a role in reconciliation. She encourages everyone to be curious, humble, and courageous. The first step is self-awareness. We need to examine our own bias and privilege. A deep reflection is needed (Wilson, 2021). What privileges do I have as a white Canadian? I am not likely to be accused of stealing. I feel accepted by others. I have access to educational opportunities. These are just a few examples, but as I see my list growing, I begin feeling guilty. Am I alone? Or does anyone else experience these guilty feelings? Can I freely feel thankful for what I have, even though I didn’t do anything to gain it? It hurts to see others without the same privileges. Is there anything I can do to help others obtain the privileges I have?

Reference:

Wilson, K. (2021). Reconciliation in post-secondary education requires courage and humility. Originally published on Policy Options. https://policyoptions.irpp.org/magazines/february-2021/reconciliation-in-post-secondary-education-requires-courage-and-humility/

Module 1 Post 2 – nonindigenous educators taking action

The University of Saskatchewan held a conference around Indigenization and Open Educational Resources (OER) in 2018. Kory Wilson was the keynote speaker and discussed Indigenizing and opening the academy through the actioning of reconciliation.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VpYIhLXZ72k

Are you a nonindigenous educator? If so, do you wonder what role you play in Indigenization? Are you concerned about authenticity? Kory sheds light on how nonindigenous educators can take action. I found this video worthwhile to watch and Kory’s passion made the hour fly by. Here are a few take always about taking action (GMCTL UofS, 2018):

  • We need to know and understand the truth about Indigenous history, even though it’s difficult.
  • Know our own family history and how it relates to Indigenous history.
  • But what do we do with the knowledge about Indigenous history? We must do something with the information we’ve learned. We need to make sure our research will make change.
  • Humility. Open heart and mind. Honest. Transparent Ask genuine questions. Authentic. Accountable.
  • Distribute power, empower others.
  • We can have a university degree in Indigenous studies but it doesn’t mean we are an expert. We need authentic, lived experiences.
  • Providing space – Give space for nonindigenous people to learn. Allow Indigenous people to share their authentic lived experiences.
  • We are stronger together, diversity of voices and opinions. More voices = more inclusion.
  • Listen more, speak less. Ask the community what they want. Avoid dictating and telling what Indigenous people have to do.
  • Start by asking yourself: why am I engaged in this? What are my strengths and weaknesses? What are my limitations?
  • Indigenization is about relationship building and this takes time.
  • Give up the romantic version of Indigenous people.

Reference:

GMCTL UofS. (2018, May 28). TLT 2018 – Keynote speaker Kory Wilson – Becoming an ally: Moving beyond bias and privilege [Video]. Youtube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VpYIhLXZ72k

Module 1 Post 1: What does Indigenization mean and why is it important?

Module 1 Post 1

Before I investigate the process of Indigenization of post-secondary curriculums and the role technology plays in Indigenization, I think it’s important to first understand what Indigenization means and why it’s important. In this first video, Dr. Jo-ann Archibald from the University of British Columbia explains what it means to Indigenize a curriculum.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Bqe5ka7iCw

The second video also explores what Indigenization means. In addition, it highlights the importance of Indigenizing educational institutions.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iLe1mxiT4rM