Tag Archives: space

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 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