On the wider discussion of what is Indigenous knowledge and why it requires protection is a difficult subject for those without extensive experience within the subject. A very interesting guide was created in 2001 by the Canadian department of Indian Affairs and North Development which seeks to explain in a wider context what is this knowledge, what sets it apart from Western knowledge, why it needs protection, and what can be done. This document is in part a workbook that allows the participant to engage in reflection and exercises that may assist in coming to better terms with the subject. The workbook components also provie the reader with tools to help preserve and promote Indigenous knowledge while being able to spot abuses of this knowledge. A good primer to be used in collaboration with other sources.

http://publications.gc.ca/collections/Collection/R2-160-2001E.pdf