Written by Desiree Marshall-Peer, TCDC Curriculum Consultant and Indigenization Specialist
We all have Indigenous students in our classrooms, even if we think we don’t. Many Indigenous students hold mistrust with the education system, and families have a mixed history of experiences with school. Often college will be a first try into the world of careers and post-secondary, and in many instances, they may be the first in their families to attend.
So how do we foster less fear and greater confidence, increase the feeling of being understood, decrease the feeling that students need to assimilate to ‘fit in’ and succeed, help individuals embrace and feel accepted, and allow students to feel comfortable enough to set higher standards for learning and achievement?
While the following are titled “Teaching Indigenous Students”, there is a phrase to remember: “What is good for an Indigenous student, is good for all students.” However, the reverse of that statement is not necessarily true.
In a further effort to encourage compassionate, relational teaching, I would like to encourage you to consider the following actions as part of your personal learning journey, and to try including some of the strategies into your teaching praxis.
- Research Cultural Backgrounds
- Understand the diverse cultures of First Nations, Metis, and Inuit students to create a more inclusive classroom environment.
- Attend Community Events
- Participate in local events and celebrations to build connections and show respect for the community.
- Tour Students’ Areas
- Visit the areas where your students hang out to gain a better understanding of their daily lives and challenges.
- Engage with Parents and Families
- Maintain open and respectful communication with parents, meeting them in ways that suit their needs and preferences.
- Visit Local Band Offices and Cultural Centers
- Meet with community leaders, Elders, and Traditional Teachers to learn more about the cultural context of your students. Have you been to the Museum of Anthropology?
- Incorporate Talking Circles
- Use Talking Circles for decision-making, lesson planning, and storytelling to create a collaborative and inclusive classroom atmosphere.
- Talking Circles can assist students with diverse learning needs.
- Talking Circles can be used as a means of assessment.
- Invite Elders and Knowledge Keepers into the Classroom
- Elders can provide traditional teachings, stories, and ceremonies, enriching the learning experience with cultural wisdom.
- You can connect with Indigenous Education & Services (IES) for advice on inviting elders and knowledge keepers into your classroom.
- Use Local Teachings
- Integrate the 13 moon calendar concepts into your lessons to help students connect with their cultural heritage and holistic learning. Or, have students work with local medicinal plants in labs, art, or language.
- Implement Project-Based Learning
- Engage students in hands-on projects that are relevant to their lives and communities, fostering practical and meaningful learning. Need help with ideas? Contact TCDC!
- Promote Positive Representation
By following these tips, educators can create a supportive and culturally responsive learning environment that helps Indigenous students thrive.
Image:
Musqueam Welcome Langara’s International Students
New international students were invited to the Musqueam Cultural Centre to learn about the close relationship between Langara College and the Musqueam people.
