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AIST/ANTH/RELG 422/522 - Plateau Indians

Course Learning Outcomes:  Several learning outcomes are sought in this specific course, each of which are linked to the appropriate Learning Outcomes of the American Indian Studies Program at http://www.uidaho.edu/class/interdisciplinary/aist/Teaching%20and%20Learning%20Outcomes (established 2007).  The Department of Sociology and Anthropology at http://www.webpages.uidaho.edu/~rfrey/departlearningoutcomes.htm  (established 2006), and the University of Idaho at http://www.uidaho.edu/learningoutcomes (revised 2009).     Not all AIST, Departmental and University Learning Outcomes will be addressed in this course.

A.  Three primary learning outcomes:

1.       The first primary outcome of this course is to allow you to gain a heightened understanding of and appreciation for Indian Peoples of the Plateau, their sovereign status, along with their cultural, spiritual, aesthetic, literary, philosophical, social/family, political, and economic/subsistence expressions, and, as well as the diversity of those expressions within the contemporary world.  Each tribal community is to be appreciated for its uniqueness and individuality.   Gain a heightened understanding and appreciation of Heart Knowledge that infuses all these Indigenous expressions and experiences.

2.       The second primary outcome is dual-fold.  By juxtaposing that which is culturally distinct alongside that which is immediate though often veiled, the contours of the landscape of one’s own culture and worldview become clearer.  You will gain a heightened understanding of your own unique cultural traditions and worldview, as well as realize the common threads of our shared humanity, transcending the cultural differences between Indian and non-Indian communities, and between Indian communities.  

3.       The third primary outcome is to have you explore within yourself and articulate how you are going apply the knowledge and skills gained from your major field of study and this course to "make a difference" and “give back,” providing a positive contribution to the quality of life of others within your own family and community.    There are many opportunities and ways of "giving back," including:

  1.         In attempting to understand American Indian experience, as well as attempt to apply what you have learned from this course, you will be introduced to the value of an interdisciplinary approach, and of the the value of applying what you have learned this course, an indigenous approach as a tool for an interdisciplinary approach outside this course.    You don't have to give up your seat on the wooden bench to successfully travel within the tin shed.

  2.        In our ethnically diverse society and culturally pluralistic world it is critical that we develop a tolerance of and respect for the varied experiences  of other peoples. An understanding of the Indian experience is an essential first step in facilitating a heightened ability for Indian-white communication, cooperation and collaboration and community building.  

B. Four specific learning outcomes:

1.       You will gain an appreciation of the central role the oral traditions and the First Peoples play in creating and maintaining all aspects of the traditional Indian world, as expressed in art and architecture, in ceremonial life, in social and family life, and in hunting and fishing relations with the Animal Peoples.  

2.       As contact with Euro-American culture has had a critical impact on Indians society, you will gain an appreciation of the history of Indian-white relations and the colonialization of Indians.  

3.       As you are attempting to understand the American Indian experience distinct from Euro-American culture, you will gain an awareness of the epistemological, ontological and pedagogical issues associated with Indian "knowing" and "education," and the unequivocal relationship between what is taught (content and knowledge) and how it is taught (pedogogy).

4.       In acknowledging the sovereignty of each Indian Tribe, an appreciation of the ethical considerations associated with intellectual and cultural property rights will be gained. When Indian culture and history are presented in an academic classroom or in any public forum, and to help assure the "authenticity" and "appropriateness" of what is considered most cherished by Indian peoples, a collaboration between the instructor and tribal representatives should occur.  

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