Embedding Indigenous Knowledges and Perspectives in Curriculum

Project Description

Griffith University is committed to producing graduates who value Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives and knowledges and the importance of these in our nation’s history and future. We commit
to implement, monitor, and evaluate the embedding of Indigenous value systems and knowledges into Griffith University structures, our learning, teaching, and research. This includes embedding Indigenous knowledges and perspectives into curriculum, and formal strategies that ensure that students graduate with a strong foundational understanding of Indigenous values and knowledges. It is the responsibility of
all to embed Indigenous Knowledges and perspectives in Griffith University curriculum.

The Office of the DVCI launched the Framing Indigenous Knowledges and Perspectives in Curriculum Guide at the inaugural Embedding Indigenous Knowledges and Perspectives in Curriculum Symposium (Symposium), held during NAIDOC Week on 9 July 2024.

This guide provides a more coherent framework to inform teaching and learning approaches to deliver Indigenous knowledges and perspectives in curriculum.

Project Personnel and Beneficiaries

This symposium aimed to help staff/academics who are contributors to curriculum development and learning and teaching at Griffith, to understand Indigenous perspectives and how Indigenous knowledges can be incorporated and embedded into our curriculum.  

The Framework aligns to Griffith Graduate Attribute 5, which aims to ensure that upon graduation, Griffith students graduate with a strong foundational understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander values and knowledges.

The project aims to benefit students, to ensure they are culturally capable when working with First Australians.

Outcomes to Date

The Interim Lead (Learning and Teaching – Indigenous) in the Office of DVCI has worked in collaboration with program leadership and CMS to implement the Guide:
* Key questions have been incorporated in the CMS Course Profiles to analyse Indigenous content in Griffith’s courses.
* A Curriculum Mapping Tool has been developed and made available to staff to identify, evaluate and improve the Indigenous course content at Griffith.
* CCLW02 Embedding Indigenous knowledges workshops delivered – 7 workshops attended by 156 staff
* Delivering additional workshops to implement the Guide, including student workshops and lectures in Logan’s Yarning Circle and Bush Tucker Garden.
* Regular interaction with Embedding Indigenous Knowledges (Deadly Curriculum) Community of Practice Teams group and monthly drop-in sessions. Plans to introduce monthly themed drop-in sessions during lunchtime to further increase interaction.