Modeling the value of land-based and ancestoral knowledge in a modern education setting, with Peter Kindfield.

The Forest School Podcast

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Guest Info:⁠https://peterkindfieldphd.substack.com⁠⁠ https://hilltopeducation.com⁠

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Summary

In this conversation, Lewis, Peter Kindfield, and Wem discuss the merging of indigenous and modern knowledge in outdoor programs. They explore the importance of accessing and valuing different forms of knowledge, such as cultural and land-based knowledge. The conversation highlights the need for a holistic approach to education and learning, where children have the freedom to explore and engage with nature. They also discuss the significance of cooperation and mutualism in nature, as well as the balance between conservation and human interaction with the environment. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of feeling connected and at home in the natural world. The conversation explores the connection between children and nature, the difference in adults' relationship with nature, the importance of interdependence and feeling safe in nature, the tendency to mask feelings in nature, the use of stories to connect to nature, and teaching science through storytelling.

Takeaways

Valuing and integrating indigenous and modern knowledge in outdoor programs

The importance of accessing and valuing different forms of knowledge, such as cultural and land-based knowledge

The need for a holistic approach to education and learning, allowing children to explore and engage with nature

The significance of cooperation and mutualism in nature and the balance between conservation and human interaction with the environment Children who choose to engage with nature have a different relationship with the natural world compared to adults.

Interdependence and feeling safe are crucial for individuals to fully connect with nature.

Some people may initially mask their true feelings about nature but may require support to feel comfortable and develop a genuine connection.

Storytelling can be a powerful tool to connect individuals to nature and teach scientific concepts.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:15 Merging Indigenous and Modern Knowledge

06:19 Accessing Knowledge through Education

09:21 Cooperation and Mutualism in Nature

12:59 Cultural Knowledge and Observations

18:15 Gratitude and Connection with Nature

21:29 Balancing Conservation and Human Interaction with Nature

24:39 Holistic Approach to Education and Learning

26:41 Shared Focus and Engagement in Learning

29:58 Observing Children's Experiences and Knowledge

34:23 Cultural Knowledge and Individual Comfort

39:04 Importance of Land-Based Skills and Interdependence

44:29 Feeling at Home in the World

45:05 Children's Connection to Nature

46:28 Adults' Relationship with Nature

47:59 Interdependence and Feeling Safe

49:27 Masking Feelings in Nature

50:26 Using Stories to Connect to Nature

51:11 Teaching Science through Storytelling

53:37 Finding More Information