INDG 287 Introduction to Indigenous Teachings and Practices

School of Health and Human Services

INDG 287 Introduction to Indigenous Teachings and Practices. This course will provide students with an introduction to Indigenous studies, including key concepts, themes and topics relevant to Indigenous histories and contemporary practices. The history and impact of colonialism, residential schools and oppression will be explored. We will explore Indigenous Worldview and ways in which we can respectfully participate in creating a future vision which embodies respect for cultural diversity and the health of our planet. Local wisdom keepers will be invited to share stories.

Prerequisites: ENGL 110 with a minimum grade of 60%

Accessibility Services Notice

Students who would like an academic accommodation and who have a documented disability should contact Accessibility Services, if they have not already done so.

Transfer Agreements

Course to Course transfer – YesBlock Transfer – Yesbctransferguide.ca
Course Details
Total number of weeks15
Total Credits
Total Hours45
Typical hours per week breakdown
Lecture3

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, the learner will be able to:

  1. Learn how the history of Indigenous peoples has influenced current strengths and problems
  2. Examine how spirituality and Elders impact healing and health
  3. Consider a variety of social problems confronting Indigenous people today and examine some of the ways that these problems are being responded to
  4. Discuss how cultural specific issues such as language, family, ownership and world views affect Indigenous people
  5. Gain an understanding of the impact of colonialism, residential schools and cultural oppression that has impacted indigenous peoples
  6. Assist students in developing interpersonal skills that will assist them in working with Indigenous people
  7. Strategies for working with barriers in the delivery of services to Indigenous people
  8. Proficiency in understanding culturally oriented approached useful in assisting Indigenous people
  9. Sensitivity based values that model respect for a culturally diverse population

Teaching and Learning Approach

This class requires active participation. Lectures, videos and teachings are combined with interactive exercises, group discussion and participation in a talking circle. Studied concepts will be practiced through assignments which are designed to take the learning outside the classroom, allowing the student to apply newly constructed concepts, skills, and understandings. The speaker series introduces Indigenous voices and the support of local wisdom keepers in the learning process.

Learning Resources

Required: Wagamese, R. (2019). One Drum: Stories and Ceremonies for a Planet. Douglas & McIntyre. Good, M. (2023). Truth telling: Seven conversations about Indigenous Life in Canada. HarperCollins Publishers Ltd. Various Readings on Moodle and Hand Outs.

Detailed Course Content, Topics, and Sequence Covered

1. Introduction and Course Overview Territorial Acknowledgements Pledge Elder Welcome 2. RESILIENCE Terminology Introduction to Indigenous Paradigm Indigenous Identity 3. The Journey: How did we get here? -Witness Blanket discussion -7 Sacred Teachings 4. Indigenous Health & Wellness Medicine Wheel Holistic Health Indigenous Interconnectedness The Importance of Spirituality 5. Oppression: From First Contact to The Indian Act 6. Oppression: From The Indian Act to Today Child Welfare MMIW 7. Intergenerational Trauma Where is Home? Why and what is "PhotoVoice"? 8. RESISTANCE Jordan’s Principal Cultivating Cultural Safety 9. Resistance, Resilience & Resurgence 10. RECONCILIACTION TRC Allies in Action Cultural Safety 11. Reconciliation & Allyship 12. Allyship 13. Closing the Circle 14. Video Assignment Due Please upload condensed video, or YouTube link to video on Moodle

Assessment

TitleLearning OutcomesValue
Participation Assessment420%
Indigenous Issues Presentation Combined Lineage/Oppression Paper1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 925%
Assignment3, 5, 915%
PhotoVoice Assignment3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 620 7, 8
Video Assignment920%
Total100%

Grading Table

Standard Academic and Career Programs Grading Table

Percentage Letter Grade GPA
90-100 A+ 4.33
85-89 A 4.00
80-84 A- 3.67
76-79 B+ 3.33
72-75 B 3.00
68-71 B- 2.67
64-67 C+ 2.33
60-63 C 2.00
55-59 C- 1.67
50-54 P 1.00
0-49 F 0.00
DNW 0.00

See the Academic Calendar for General Information including how to withdraw from course(s) and other regulations.

Disclaimer

Information contained in this course outline is correct at the time of publication. Content of the course is revised on an ongoing basis to ensure relevance to changing educational, employment and market needs. The instructor will endeavor to provide notice of changes to students as soon as possible. The instructor reserves the right to add or delete material from courses.