Friday, February 26, 2010

Anathemas and Universities

One of the most challenging aspects of contemporary Indigenous affairs is accounting for the diversity of perspectives held by Aboriginal leaders and intellectuals. The debate over the Northern Territory Intervention is probably the most salient example. Otherwise think of the differing political philosophies of Patrick and Mick Dodson, Noel Pearson or Warren Mundine. There is commonality but also important differences.

The challenge for Indigenous Studies is to develop coherent narratives that can frame this diversity and allow students to develop critical thinking skills with a view to forming philosophies cognate with their core values. The problem is that for some people Indigenous issues are the equivalent of moral issues, with right and wrong clearly defined. Those who are 'wrong' in this schemata are then anathematised - usually with the aid of some derogation. Any style of teaching Indigenous Studies, any Indigenous Studies subject, that offers 'right' answers will prove seductive even if the intellectual outcomes are verifiably limited. There is much more to be said on this; though I will note that the unsavoury aspect of this style of teaching can manifest as student on student bullying and name calling.

1 comment:

  1. Hi Philip,
    I'm doing the Master of Teaching at MU. Currently, I'm exploring curriculum inclusivity of Indigenous Studies in urban high schools and how this can be achieved by teachers and schools and how they and non-Indigenous students can be engaged in IS meaningfully, honestly and openly.
    I agree with your point about labeling 'right' and 'wrong' and its impact on the continued discourse of Indigenous issues. I think many teachers and schools acknowledge this in their avoidance of teaching Indigenous Studies.
    Also, morality, in different ways for different people, plays a huge part in the teaching of IS. I think at a high school level, this ties in with how little people know and have been taught themselves.
    If you wouldn't mind, I'd really like to hear your thoughts on teaching Indigenous Studies to high school students (both Indigenous and non-Indigenous)?

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