Indigenous Knowledge and Mainstream Education Systems

The connection between indigenous knowledge and mainstream education systems is often seen as conflicting. In the context of the twenty-first century, indigenous knowledge lacks the recognition it deserves, as it is often... [ view full abstract ]

The connection between indigenous knowledge and mainstream education systems is often seen as conflicting. In the context of the twenty-first century, indigenous knowledge lacks the recognition it deserves, as it is often assumed that it does not serve a place in new-age ways of thinking, particularly in comparison to the technological developments of western societies. Focusing specifically on Polynesian and Native American traditional knowledge, this talk will elaborate on the ways in which such knowledge systems are integral to these cultures survival and can also serve other communities at large. This will be extrapolated into a deeper conversation on how such traditional knowledge is perceived by outside communities and thus how that impacts indigenous knowledge preservation in turn. Christina will use her experiences in founding Maui & the Movement, a non-profit organization which seeks to bridge the gap between indigenous knowledge and mainstream education. She will also draw on her partnerships with other indigenous communities, particularly those made during her work with the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues.