COURSE OVERVIEW:
This professional development program focuses on Indigenous land-based training, providing participants with an in-depth understanding of Indigenous worldviews, philosophies, and identities. Participants will explore the cultural, historical, societal, spiritual, and psychological dimensions of pre-contact societies, gaining insights into the traditional strengths of Indigenous communities, families, and individuals.
The program emphasizes land-based education, training, healing, and personal and professional development, supporting participants' spiritual, emotional, physical, and mental well-being. Utilizing the Medicine Wheel philosophy, attendees will learn to foster a deeper connection with the land and the natural world, enhancing their appreciation for its significance in Indigenous communities.
Upon completion, participants will have developed a personal and conceptual framework for understanding the complex relationship between Indigenous identity, cultural, social, spiritual, and personal values. They will also recognize the crucial role that land-based education, healing, and personal development play in Indigenous communities.
TRAINING SCHEDULE:
Day 1: Foundations of Indigenous Awareness
Introductions, housekeeping, opening prayer & drum song
Boundaries/protocols, history of the Medicine Wheel
Concepts: Self, connectedness, the four aspects of nature, the four stages of life, the four seasons
Introduction to smudging, circle check, closing prayer & song
Day 2: Medicine Wheel Teachings and Applications
Opening prayer & song, circle check
Concepts: Vision, the four elements, learning, balance
Medicine Wheel tools and applications
Circle check, closing prayer & song
Day 3: Indigenous History, Challenges, and Team Building
Opening prayer & song, sharing circle
Residential schools, MMIWG, debrief circle
Team building activities: Tipi building & teachings, constructing a 100' Medicine Wheel
Sharing circle, closing prayer & song
Day 4: The Role of Elders in Indigenous Communities
Opening prayer & song, circle check
Elder definitions, small group discussions
Indigenous Elders: Roles and responsibilities
Individual and group presentations for certifications
Circle check, closing prayer & song
Day 5: Final Presentations and Closing Ceremony
Opening prayer & song, circle check
Presentation conclusion, traditional meal & Spirit offering
Traditional giveaway ceremony, workshop evaluations
Presentation of certificates, Elder's teachings, closing prayer & song
LEARNING OUTCOMES:
Upon successful completion, participants should be able to:
Apply the Medicine Wheel philosophy in their work and personal lives.
Understand and facilitate Indigenous worldviews and knowledge.
Demonstrate basic awareness of traditional sacred ways of Indigenous peoples.
Comprehend the relationships between land, culture, collective, and personal identity.