Document: WIL-3-28-21

Arctic Field Ecology: A model for integrating teaching, research, and Inuit ecological knowledge.

GOULD, W.* ^1,2

University of Alaska, Fairbanks AK 99775-7000 USA ¹
University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108 USA ²

Abstract:
Many scientists realize the value of 1) integrating research and education and 2) incorporating indigenous knowledge about ecosystems in research programs. There is also value in integrating both indigenous ecological knowledge and research in educational programs. Arctic Field Ecology is a University of Minnesota course that takes place in Nunavut, Canada that is developing new ways to teach students ecology by integrating western research practices and Inuit ecological knowledge. The key to the success of developing a course integrating students, scientists, and Inuit is in recognizing their common ground: An appreciation of the land or Nuna (in Inuinnaqtun). We find that a course can be developed in which students 1) gain complementary insight into ecological interactions from both western and Inuit instructors; 2) gain an appreciation of current land use and land management issues; 3) gain an understanding of research licensing and control by indigenous landowners; 4) think critically of the differences between western scientific methods (developing testable hypotheses) and indigenous ways of knowing (repeated observation and experience, oral history, close connection and dependency on land and wildlife); and 5) gain experience in ongoing research projects. Inuit instructors receive economic benefits, teaching experience, contacts with current arctic researchers, and a forum for educating and influencing tomorrow's arctic researchers.

Keywords: Education, Field ecology courses, Integrating research and education, Inuit, Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK)

This abstract is being presented at: 3:45 PM in session:
Oral Session #29: Communicating Ecology.