Etuaptmumk - two-eyed seeing: Bringing together land-based learning and online technology to teach Indigenous youth about food

Authors

  • Renee Bujold Dalhousie University
  • Ann Fox, Dr. St. Francis Xavier University
  • Kerry Propser St. Francis Xavier University
  • Kara Pictou The Confederacy of Mainland Mi'kmaq
  • Debbie Martin, Dr. Dalhousie University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15353/cfs-rcea.v8i4.466

Keywords:

Land-based Learning, Two-Eyed Seeing, Technology, Indigenous Health, Youth, Indigenous Foodways

Abstract

In 2019 we began an intergenerational Land-based learning program with the goal of engaging a group of Mi’kmaw youth from a rural community in Nova Scotia with their Traditional Foodways. When COVID-19 and the physical distancing restrictions hit Nova Scotia, however, this changed how we implemented the project. We decided to bring youth together virtually and encourage self-directed Land-based learning. This paper describes the dilemmas we faced as we considered what initially seemed like a paradoxical relationship- using online technology to promote Land-based learning. Our aim is to not only draw attention to what we believe to be the centrality of the Land in understanding Indigenous foodways, but also the potential for online technology to enhance youth engagement on and with the Land. We begin by exploring Land-based learning and how it supports teaching about Traditional foodways and Indigenous culture, as well as the challenges and opportunities related to implementing Land-based pedagogy in a virtual environment. Using Etuaptmumk-Two Eyed Seeing as our lens, we argue that online technologies can support Land-based learning, providing principles of local culture are respected and the technology is compatible with community values.

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Published

2022-02-26

How to Cite

Bujold, R., Fox, A., Propser, K., Pictou, K., & Martin, D. (2022). Etuaptmumk - two-eyed seeing: Bringing together land-based learning and online technology to teach Indigenous youth about food. Canadian Food Studies La Revue Canadienne Des études Sur l’alimentation, 8(4). https://doi.org/10.15353/cfs-rcea.v8i4.466

Issue

Section

Field Report or Narrative