Indigenous Education

Indigenous learners achieve success in classroom environments that honour their culture, language and worldview, and show “positive interconnection between the physical, emotional-mental, intellectual and spiritual realms” (Toulouse, 2008, p. 1). Including these elements in this unit plan, will not only benefit our Indigenous students but give all students greater depth and meaning, enhancing their connection and understanding of the forest.

Throughout this unit plan, effort is made to incorporate Indigenous ways of knowing, particularly in having students consider the interconnectivity of the forest environment. As well, the cyclical and spiritual elements of Indigenous ways of knowing are highlighted through Medicine Wheel teachings.

Rather than consider Indigenous perspectives only in isolated lessons, this unit plan weaves Indigenous culture and teachings into lessons with science, math, art, and storytelling. Multimodal communication, oral storytelling, and enhanced visuals are emphasized. Also, manipulatives will be used where ever possible to enhance mathematical understanding. Finally, to increase personal connection, an Indigenous speaker is invited to facilitate a class in Phase 4.

References

Toulouse, P. (2008). Integrating aboriginal teaching and values into the classroom. Retrieved from https://www.oise.utoronto.ca/deepeningknowledge/UserFiles/File/FNMI_-_Research_Monograph_11_-_Aboriginal_Perspectives_Toulouse.pdf