Episode 12: Natural curiosity through an Indigenous lens

In what ways are the land and water shaped by children's questions? How can educators light a fire of inspiration in their learners? Why do many Indigenous teachings lend themselves so well to inquiry-based learning? Here's what else we dove into in this Earthy Chat:  

*adopting a framework that challenges people to think without being prescriptive

*the flow of knowledge in Anishinaabe learning

*Natural Curiosity's four-branch framework and the accompanying Indigenous lens

*how children can ask questions that adults won't ask

*the importance of storytelling for educators and learners

*developing meaningful relationships with Indigenous people in our communities

Guests:

Doug Anderson, author of the Indigenous lens for Natural Curiosity 2nd Edition

Doug Anderson (Bungee/Métis) grew up closely connected with Pasapkedjiwanong (the Rideau River) in the Ottawa Valley, and has lived in Toronto for over 30 years. He is one of the founders of Naadmaagit Ki Group (NKG), which works to restore Indigenous responsibilities to the land and water in Toronto. NKG is working with urban Indigenous people planting medicines, mound gardening, fighting invasive species, and supporting Indigenous cultural learning on land in the city. Doug also divides his time between Invert Media and Ph.D. studies in Indigenous Education at York University. 

Julie Comay, co-author of Natural Curiosity 2nd Edition

After teaching at the Lab School and in Toronto public schools for over 20 years, Julie joined the faculty at the Dr. Eric Jackman Institute of Child Study where she currently teaches in its graduate education program. As a researcher and practitioner with a strong interest in curiosity, imagination and children’s play, Julie has collaborated with teachers, researchers, and community members to design and implement playful, engaging and culturally relevant approaches to literacy and math in Ontario elementary schools. Her work in Indigenous communities in northwest Ontario opened her eyes to new perspectives and possibilities for working with children as they engage with the natural world.

Natural Curiosity 2nd Edition: The Importance of Indigenous Perspectives in Children's Environmental Inquiry can be purchased from the Non-profit Outdoor Learning Store.