Native Knowledge
Share Knowledge
"The sharing of knowledge is an important aspect of both scientific and native communities. Scientists share and often harshly debate the procedures, merits and conclusions of scientific study, with the ability to replicate studies and reach similar conclusions being a critical aspect of the scientific process. Perhaps more softly and subtly, debate, or at least sharing, is also a part of traditional systems. As pointed out by Richard Glenn "Ours is a culture of consensus. Agreement is mandatory on nearly every item passed on as traditional knowledge. If one person stands alone, he may be an expert or her may be wrong."1 Such sharing of traditional knowledge is often done through storytelling, modeling and innovation connected to life, values and proper behavior. So in a classroom context, diverse representation and discussion of student observations, interpretations and explanations is a critical aspect of culturally responsive science instruction from dual perspectives. It is a process by which students clarify and extend their learning through discussion and questioning by others.
But the sharing of knowledge has another purpose more related to plain old manners and giving back to those who have given. Elders, community members and scientists who have helped with classroom studies will be eager to see the products of student work as will parents and community members who may have been only peripherally involved. Hosting a community night where people are thanked publicly and where studies and learning are showcased is a great way to share. By its very nature, it invites comment and discussion that can only promote learning. Things like booklets, posters or collections of work that can be made simply and distributed are also beneficial, as are political statements such as letters, resolutions or public testimony. This "giving back" completes a cycle that will build knowledge and encourage all to participate again." 2
1. Glenn, R. (1999) Traditional knowledge, environmental
assessment and the clash of two cultures. Sharing Our Pathways. 4 (4
2. Stephens, S.(2000) Handbook for Culturally Responsive
Science Curriculum, Alaska Rural Systemic Initiative, p. 31
The Website for National Science Foundation Grant No. ES1-9910219
Last Modified on May 20, 2002 by Sidney Stephens
