The Importance of Intergenerational and Relational Learning
The Importance of Intergenerational and Relational Learning
Topic 8 – The Importance of Intergenerational and Relational Learning
Robin Wall Kimmerer in her book Braiding Sweetgrass mentions several teachings that have been handed down generation after generation. In her chapter “Mishkos Kenomagwen: The Teachings of Grass”, she discusses learning from Elder Lena about how to select one of the four sacred medicines – sweetgrass. Lena says,
“It’s our way,” she says, “to take only what we need. I’ve always been told that you never take more than half.”
“Our teachings,” she says, “are very strong. They wouldn’t get handed on if they weren’t useful. The most important thing to remember is what my grandmother always said: ‘If we use a plant respectfully it will stay with us and flourish. If we ignore it, it will go away. If you don’t give it respect, it will leave us” (Kimmerer, 2013, p. 157).
This passage is striking as it embodies so many teachings that are passed down through oral history and Indigenous ways. Only the useful ones get passed down and have strength in the community. Further, what is articulated in the passage, is the respectful relationship with the plants and how it is interconnected. Relational learning (between humans and between all living beings) and intergenerational learning—what is passed down between generations is foundational in Indigenous pedagogies.
The videos below share conversations and concepts related to building strong relationships especially between the generations. Additionally, if thinking of engaging Elders for events or consultations, Jaimie shares some common sense approaches to consider based on her experience and that of others providing support in this area (Joseph, 2019).
The Importance of Intergenerational and Relational Learning video (6:28)
Respecting and Working with Elders video (6:18)
Activity: Self-Reflection
Reflect on the Indigenous Pedagogies presented and connect to your learning experiences. Jot down answers to the following prompts:
- What commonalities have you noticed between the Indigenous pedagogy and your own teaching or learning practices?
- What gaps are appearing regarding how you learned and how Indigenous Peoples may have experienced their learning?
- What areas do you still need to explore further and why?
- How does that make you feel?
References:
Joseph, R. (2019, Dec 7). Indigenous Elder Definition. Indigenous Corporate Training. https://www.ictinc.ca/blog/aboriginal-elder-definition
Kimmerer, R. W. (2013). Braiding sweetgrass (1st ed.). Minneapolis, Minnesota: Milkweed Editions.
