Liberal Studies is the investigative study of various topics from different disciplinary combinations which will enhance our critical thinking, communication skills and problem solving. To begin with, the past few weeks have revolved around grasping different ways to approach knowledge through multiple supplementary readings, class discussions and powerpoints. To name a few, Land as Pedagogy by Leanne Betasamosake Simpson, the powerpoint on Indigenous Knowledge, The Wood Wide Web and others are in-class readings that showed what methods we can use to approach knowledge.
To start with, in the article “Land as Pedagogy- Nishnaabeg intelligence is diversity” I learned that if you’re living your life in an engaged way and If we are open to this, then knowledge will flow through us based on our own actions. Simpson’s purpose is to convey the idea that indigenous peoples/Anishinaabe will have access to knowledge “by being open…and [active] in a way of living that generates a close, personal relationship”(12) which suggests that you will perceive and be “open to that kind of knowledge”(12) depending on your surroundings, norms, society we live in and environment we associate with. Simpson is stating that Indigenous people have to be engaged in a way of living that generates a close relationship with their world. Indigenous teachings for example, are built on the very basis of taking into account who they are as a tribe and relationship to surroundings. By learning from and listening to nature, they are “learn[ing] both from the land and with the land”(pg.7). They have the right to freely pursue their cultural ways, like being connected to their homelands through spiritual ceremonies and language. In addition, I found the powerpoint on “Indigenous Knowledge” engaging and emotional because of the tragic event of Residential Schools. Aboriginals especially children, were stripped away from their Aboriginal rights; they were taken away from families, forbidden to speak their language and wear traditional clothing, were raped and killed due to “The Indian Act, which was enacted in 1876 and has since been amended, allows the government to control most aspects of aboriginal life: Indian status, land, resources, education”(slide 6).
To continue, during the first month of LBST 100, we have had several group discussions that were utilized to share questions and opinions about the readings. I have discussed within my group but not in front the class. However I do participate with my group and get things done. Similarly, I have had a learning experience with speaking in front of people, like guest presentations. For example, on Saturdays I read lectures at church and due to this I have learned how to be calm when speaking in front of a large audience. Therefore, I hope to use this knowledge in the near future. To sum up, Â I have gained much knowledge in the first month of Liberal Studies and I hope to learn more aspects of approaching knowledge.