Nature's Connection

Throughout history man has been connected to the land and nature. It is becoming more important for teachers to make sure that we provide opportunities for our students to experience this connection. Gregory Cajete in the essay Reclaiming Biophilia uses the term indigenous to describe a person who is connected to the land, community and nature. The term biophilia originated by E.O. Wilson is a term that describes man’s connection with animals and the environment. This relationship with nature provides the foundation for indigenous education and their environmental relationship. Indigenous education reflects biophilia; it is a way of knowing who you are and your place in nature. When I was reading this essay I thought of the students who ask, why do I need to learn this. It is the process of learning and finding your place and who you are that is important that is reflected in education. Indigenous education uses story a hunter says prayers to the animals he hunts and then tells the animal’s story to his family. In telling this story the family learns the importance of community, that life is sacred, and the animal allows man to live. Story is a tool that is important in the classroom. Not only the stories a teacher can use to impart knowledge, but to be able to listen to your student’s story showing them respect and willingness to learn from them as well. Cajete tells stories of the Pueblo people. I could not help but think of the vegetable people in the children’s video. I thought it would be cool to use the Pueblo cloud motif to teach the water cycle. It includes the importance of the water cycle and our connection with this cycle. Using a connection to nature and student in our curriculum in science and teaching can provide an opportunity to stimulate gardening, community renewal, and environmental sustainability.