Academic and Indigenous collaborators

• David Deephouse, U. of Alberta.
• Teddy Carter, U. of Alberta
• Jim Denford, Royal Military College
• Dr Rye Barberstock, Okwaho Equal Source
• Dr Shyra Barberstock, Okwaho Equal Source
• Jody-Lynn Rebek, Algoma University
• Lindsay Ackland, Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig
• Joanne Thiessen, Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig

The fifth iteration of this PDW returns to the teaching pillar of academic life, following our discussions of interdependent, multi-level change at three business schools in 2023 and of indigenizing research in 2022. Recognizing the diversity of Indigenous communities across Turtle Island, we first recommend that Indigenous business courses emphasize local Indigenous Peoples, knowledge systems, businesses, and issues, rather than emphasizing a pan-Indigenous approach. This would make courses more accessible and valuable to Learners who, on average, tend to come from the same region as their university and remain there after graduation. For those moving to other regions, the skills developed for deeply studying a particular area should transfer to other regions. Second, we believe there are innovative ways to include Indigenous knowledges into traditional business courses. This will prompt creative imagination to further Indigenize courses. We will describe four experiences in developing and indigenizing courses. We will then have exercises so workshop participants can develop actionable ways for enhancing their own classes and encourage changes at their schools. We will conclude by seeking volunteers to keep building momentum.