Everything is Connected~ Module II

Essential Question: 

How is everything connected from the perspectives of indigenous peoples and Western scientists? What are the advantages to knowing both ways?

I have been presented with the venn diagram and tables demonstrating the similarities and differences of traditional and western ways of knowing before.  However, that was as a pre-teacher.  Now as a practicing teacher, when I think about the ways of knowing I am reflecting on my current teaching practices rather than just philosophizing about it.  Do I faciliate the learning that is HOLISTIC and not compartmentalized?  Do I create a science classroom in which students see science as a tool in their lives and see themselves as capable of using it in the real world?  Do I support real life application when I really have very little experience in that myself? 

Both last year and this year, I have taught at least one integrated science class (foresnics and natural resources technology).  Classes in which the curriculum is set up to combined various disciplines of science.  In these classes I have enjoyed the intricacies of how all things are connected and helping students apply all disciplines of science and other subjects to solve problems.  But I also get overwhelmed, because my traditional way of knowing (the western way) means everything is compartmentalized and there have been few examples throughout my past of how to teach holistically.  In this module, I was reminded of how important it is to be able to integrate our knowledge and to transfer the knowledge from one situation to another.  I think all students benefit from seeing the application of their knowledge to the "real world".

Currently, in the courses I am teaching one of the best ways I believe for students to understand the application of science and to be able to picture themselves as scientists, is to connect students to other people.  This can be done through field trips (I will be taking my students to the state crime lab this year), guest speakers, or in class tutors.  In class tutors, such as college students studying in that field, are very effective as being role models and helping students see themselves in that role.  

Lastly, I see the use of Teacher Domain in my clasroom.  Using background essays and discussion questions to frame, focus, and follow up, are an effective way to utilize the short video clips in the classroom.