Celebration of Scholars
#13: As Long As The Grass Shall Grow: Teaching Native American Heritage
Name:
Nadine Broeffle
Major: Broad field Social Studies (Sociology), Secondary Education
Hometown: Green Bay, WI
Faculty Sponsor:
Karin Sconzert
Other Sponsors:
Type of research: Senior thesis
Abstract
This research was crafted under the reality that there are oversimplified and vague understandings of Indigenous heritage and culture in the U.S. This has created a disconnect in the ways that educators teach Native American history in the classroom, hence perpetuating a cycle of the miseducation of our federally recognized tribes. The purpose of the research was to provide thorough methods for educators to teach about past and present American Indian communities with cultural relevance and accuracy. Through student surveys, qualitative interviews with Indigenous activists, and literature analysis, the researcher was able to find that there were three themes that are paramount in regard to learning and teaching about Native American history.- History with the Facts and Accuracy
- Indigenous Innovations and Ideas That We Use Today
- Immersion, Research, and Activism in the Native Community.
Simply stated, understanding how Native American heritage is prominent in our modern lifestyles today is paramount to correcting the false narratives surrounding indigenous lifestyles. Proper education of the First Nations is vital to better outcomes for students and communities of our country. We are affected by the ongoing contributions to art, fashion, music, popular culture, and comedy brought by our tribal communities. It is the message that as long as the grass shall grow, the indigenous influences shall remain.