Forms of instruction and assessment may include Indigenous pedagogies including experiential learning, guest speakers, small-group and sharing circle discussions; land-based learning trips; creative assignments with a self-reflexive component; and written communication.
As possible, land-based activities are recommended, such as going to Oshawa Creek, etc. Depending on the weather, classes may be held outside, along the Creek, to deepen the connection to the course focus.
Sample assessment methods:
â— Reflection journal – a series of reflections on the key learnings throughout the semester, including ton any field trips
â— A photo-essay, using the 12 Dimensions of Indigenous Homelessness (Thistle, 2017), to explore the apparent lack of Indigenous presence in settler municipalities, particularly Durham Region
â— A creative assignment – the student will use whatever creative medium they prefer to complete this assignment. Using one of the stories from A Gift in the Making or Michi Saagiig Nishaabeg: The History of Curve Lake First Nation the student will create a piece of art, poetry, video, dance, song, etc., that represents this story and how it reflects the student’s relationship to the land. Questions to be considered include how does the student learn from the land? How does the idea of land-as-home (as seen through the story) resonate for the student? Etc.
â— Student peer evaluations of creative assignments
â— Final essay, based on key ideas presented by Simpson in Dancing on Our Turtle’s Back and the critical intersections of land, relationships, stories and the impacts of colonization.