This week in class we had guest speaker Kirsten Pierce come and speak with us about Outdoor Education and how technology can be integrated outdoors! One part of the presentation that really stuck out to me was the notion of two-eyed seeing or the two-eyed lens. In previous courses and lessons, we have spoken about the importance of this concept, however, experiencing the garden on such a beautiful day immediately after the conversation truly put this into perspective.
“Two-eyed seeing” or “two-eyed lens” is a concept rooted in Indigenous knowledge and ways of knowing. It refers to the practice of integrating both Indigenous ways of understanding the world and Western scientific perspectives to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the environment, nature, and land.The term was coined by Mi’kmaq Elder Albert Marshall, who emphasized the importance of recognizing the value of both Indigenous knowledge systems and Western science in addressing contemporary environmental and social issues.
In practical terms, two-eyed seeing involves bridging Indigenous ecological knowledge, which is often based on oral traditions, cultural practices, and spiritual beliefs deeply rooted in the land, with Western scientific knowledge, which relies on empirical observation, experimentation, and analysis.
How can I bring Two-Eyed Seeing into my classroom?
Outdoor and Experiential Learning: Take my students outdoors for hands-on learning experiences that allow them to connect with nature and the land. Encourage them to observe, interact with, and learn from their surroundings using both Indigenous and Western scientific perspectives.
Respectful Engagement and Cultural Competency: Foster a classroom environment that values and respects diverse cultures, perspectives, and ways of knowing. Provide opportunities for students to learn about Indigenous protocols, cultural practices, and traditional teachings, and encourage them to approach Indigenous knowledge with humility, openness, and respect
Professional Development: Seek out professional development opportunities for myself and my colleagues to deepen my understanding of Indigenous perspectives, cultural competency, and effective strategies for integrating Indigenous knowledge into education.
In my experience,
In my experience, participating in a program that emphasizes the concept of two-eyed seeing has been both enlightening and challenging. While there is a significant emphasis on incorporating Indigenous knowledge and the First Peoples’ principles of learning, I’ve noticed that Westernized principles often take the forefront in many aspects of the program.
One of the most glaring contradictions I’ve observed is the persistent reliance on Western educational practices such as testing, averaging scores, and placing a heavy emphasis on grades. These practices not only contradict the principles of two-eyed seeing but also undermine the importance of holistic and inclusive approaches to education.
As future educators, we are encouraged to embrace Indigenous perspectives, honor diverse ways of knowing, and foster connections between Indigenous and Western knowledge systems. However, the prevalence of traditional grading systems and standardized testing methods sends a conflicting message to both students and educators. It can be a frustrating experience!
This was a Ted Talk provided by our psychology prof that outlined the concepts of two-eyed seeing! I really like this video and think it’s extremely helpful in learning about the two-eyed lens.
Outdoor Education
As previously mentioned, we also had the opportunity to go outside and experience outdoor education! Kirsten Pierce was passionate in incorporating outdoor education when applicable, and finding those places in the curriculum that allow for classes to move outdoors!
I believe that outdoor ed is so important! By immersing students in natural environments, it cultivates a profound connection with nature, fostering appreciation, curiosity, and understanding of the world around them. This experiential approach to learning provides invaluable opportunities for students to engage in hands-on activities, exploration, and discovery, leading to deeper comprehension and retention of concepts. Moreover, outdoor education promotes physical health and well-being by encouraging active play, physical activity, and exposure to natural elements. Through collaborative activities and shared experiences in outdoor settings, students develop crucial social and emotional skills such as teamwork, communication, and resilience.
http://www.integrativescience.ca/Principles/TwoEyedSeeing/#:~:text=We%20often%20explain%20Etuaptmumk%20%2D%20Two,for%20the%20benefit%20of%20all.