Open educational practices were new to me in August 2022 when I joined USask. I realized I needed to learn more about open education resources given my responsibility for Indigenization, decolonization, and reconciliation. On the surface, there appeared to be connections to Indigenous pedagogy. Access, collaboration, choice, and reflection on the learning are some examples of the connections. These two realities exist and while the mediums may differ, how the learning takes place and who takes responsibility are similar.
A central tenet of Cree or nêhiyâwak ways of knowing is weechihitowin (being helpful and supportive). With open education, providing learners with free access to materials that can be shared models weechihitowin. The rising cost of textbooks and other education media, has long been a barrier for students. During my time as a learner on campus, I recall occasions when I would share the cost of the book with a friend, then quietly hope they would not continue with the class and I could have the text to myself. The other option was to arrive early and hope there was a used copy available for sale in Place Riel, even if it was an older edition. Open textbooks have changed this reality for the better, more people can access the same information for a reduced cost.
Another connection to Cree teachings I found is know as kiskinaumatowin (teaching each other). The use of open education practices provides opportunity for the teacher to become the learner and the learner to become the teacher. The partnership that can be formed models respect for multiple worldviews and creates shared responsibility in learning. As these relationships grow, learners can experience empowerment in learning and affirm individual identity.
As I am not currently teaching, I struggle to determine what this would look like in a course. I do have ideas about how I would take the knowledge I will be gifted during this course and put them into action. A key component that would be part of the learning would be an ability to Indigenize, decolonize, and participate in (re)conciliation.
Thank you for the opportunity to share my thoughts.
Heather M. Ross
January 31, 2023 — 7:18 pm
Darryl,
Thank you for writing this. Your post has helped me to see important connections as well and I’m hopeful that it also fuels further conversations about how open might be used to help our university, our province, and the whole of Canada to move forward on reconciliation. I look forward to reading more from you on this blog and through our individual conversations.
Darryl Isbister
February 2, 2023 — 8:08 pm
Maarsii, Heather, with your guidance I look to become more engaged in Open Education and strive find authentic connections to Indigenous Pedagogy.
Donna Thiessen
February 2, 2023 — 6:14 pm
Your thoughts on this are applicable to all post-secondary institution and (of course) to all education. Open education is the way of the now, not the future. The wisdom of indigenous knowledge and perspective continues to provide direction towards a more inclusive and community strengthening approach. Thanks Darryl for sharing your insight. This needed to be said, and heard. Wahkohtawin.
Darryl Isbister
February 2, 2023 — 6:56 pm
Kishchii maarsii, Donna. I am beginning my journey into blogging and open education and appreciate how it aligns with my Indigenous education understandings.