ERIC Number: EJ990624
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2012
Pages: 16
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1205-5352
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Indigenous Knowledges and Western Knowledges in Environmental Education: Acknowledging the Tensions for the Benefits of a "Two-Worlds" Approach
Kapyrka, Julie; Dockstator, Mark
Canadian Journal of Environmental Education, v17 p97-112 2012
Indigenous worldviews and Western worldviews stand in stark contrast to each other in many ways, including their perspectives regarding the Earth and her resources. Typically the differences between these two philosophies of life are highlighted and placed into an antagonistic relationship that seems irreconcilable. This paper upholds that within this tension there is a great opportunity for learning and for mutual understanding. We argue for using a "two-worlds" approach that engages both Indigenous knowledges and Western knowledges within environmental education. A "two-worlds" approach has the capacity to enlighten both educators and students and promote relationship-building between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples and their respective cultural understandings. Two worldviews can be drawn upon to create collaborative models and solutions to address our collective environmental challenges.
Descriptors: Indigenous Populations, Environmental Education, Indigenous Knowledge, American Indians, Western Civilization, World Views, Teaching Methods, Cultural Awareness, American Indian Culture, Models, Cooperation
Lakehead University and Canadian Network for Environmental Education and Communication. Lakehead University Faculty of Education, 955 Oliver Road, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 5E1, Canada. Fax: 807-346-7771; e-mail: cjee@lakeheadu.ca; Web site: http://cjee.lakeheadu.ca
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
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