This is course focuses on First Nations pedagogy as educational theory, method, and practice. Students will study and take part in Elder epistemology/Elder learning theories. Students will study the origin and nature of Indigenous knowledge systems and the processes through which Indigenous knowledge is acquired and transmitted. The epic narratives of Indigenous groups will be examined as examples of Indigenous knowledge production, critical thinking, problem solving, and praxis. Students will read and discuss Paulo Freire's seminal work Pedagogy of the Oppressed in order to gain a deeper understanding of critical pedagogy and the challenges of western educational structures and outcomes. The course is designed to prepare students to address persistent educational challenges facing First Nations people today including the education achievement gap, truancy, retention and graduation rates, etc. The Four Rs framework as developed and articulated by Rosemary Ackley Christensen at UW Green Bay is presented as a teaching method and practice applicable in any K-16 classroom. Thus, students will take part in Indigenous educational methods that practice the Four Rs core values of the tribal world - respect, reciprocity, responsibility, and relationship.
P: FNED 800.