Identity and culture influence and are integrated into the classes in different ways and on different levels.

First of all, Indigenous and Aboriginal culture are part of the content of the lectures and tutorials. S3 refers to this content level when saying that spirituality “should be introduced into that class because it is such an important aspect for certain cultures.” (Interview with S3). Furthermore, S2 describes all classes at the Institute as coming “from a cultural base” and “cultural identity” rather than having a “purely academic background” (Interview with S2). As Class 1 is an introductory class into Aboriginal Studies, this is particularly true for this class. However, L3 also mentions that his teaching refers to personal issues and experiences which are connected to his culture and identity, for example when talking about community and family (Interview with L3).

Another level on which a strong connection to culture can be found is the methodological one. As L2 states, storytelling is a traditional way of learning (Interview with L2). In addition, L3 mentions sharing experience and using humour as pedagogical methods which he describes as “part of Aboriginal cultures or Indigenous cultures” (Interview with L3). Likewise, S2 sees the conversational way in which the classes are taught as “in keeping with how indigenous society is” (Interview with S2).

It is interesting to see that S3 who has the weakest connection to indigeneity solely refers to the content level. S2 who has more experience also sees a connection on the methodological level. L3 and S1, however, who are themselves indigenous (namely Aboriginal and Native American respectively) also recognise a connection on an additional third level. They both explain that spirituality, which they define as a collection of values, beliefs, ethics, lived experiences and a person’s engagement with their environment, influences and enters into a person’s teaching practice (e.g.Interview with L3 & Interview with S1). While S1 thinks that this is mainly possible when talking about “organic topics” (Interview with S1), L3 argues that it is “unavoidable” (Interview with L3) to include one’s self in the teaching because “as a teacher you share who you are” (Interview with L3).

In conclusion, identity and culture have a connection to and influence all other categories.

For a full list of all quotes relating to the connection to identity and culture, please click here.

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