Reflection On First Nations Studies

Improved Essays
Through the progression of this course, various aspects of history were viewed, in addition to concepts that are still associated to the lives of Aboriginal peoples today. While carrying some previous, biased knowledge on the topics discussed, First Nations Studies allowed the development of many ideas as well as the differing perspectives on each. Via the use of assorted reading selections, tutorial discussions, guest speakers, lectures, and a variety of other forms, I was able to take away a unique understanding, different to the one I had prior, which in turn educated me on Indigenous communities. This course attempted to bypass the anger that has been accumulated over the years, and portray information in order to avoid further issues …show more content…
The various guest speakers that shared their stories and life experiences with the class allowed for a deeper understanding of the concepts discussed, but also the provided a much greater significance overall. While the idea of oral tradition was analyzed through various readings as well as in lecture, hearing certain stories such as the reason behind Rosie giving her song to Edosdi, really helped me withhold a stronger connection with the idea. Growing up, I loved hearing stories about what people have gone through and experienced so by incorporating the stories of real people who dealt with residential schools like Murray and his wife kept me intrigued. Furthermore, I was also brought up with several stories from my parents and relatives so these presentations were very close to my heart. Guest speakers also provided a dissimilar perspective on the topics than what the professor or Stephanie had taught in tutorial. This, in addition to other pros, initiated my brain to analyze the various methods of looking at things due to the difference in opinions placed before me. To add on, I am an auditory learner, therefore, demonstration through speech is very helpful in improving how I perceive information. One of my most valued presentations was by Wade Davis, who mentioned the idea that all humans are cut from the same genetic cloth …show more content…
Originally, despite withholding previous knowledge on some sections of the course, I was provided with a biased, outside opinion on Aboriginal peoples matters. While relaying important concepts regarding Indigenous lives and history, the addition of teachings relating to the outcome of history along with how to maintain and improve relations between settler and original peoples provided an extraordinary learning experience in a classroom setting with. Through the people met, readings, and additionally discussions, I was able to connect with an abundance of material as well as perceive a change in opinion on certain ideas which led to deep thought. While keeping in mind that there is so much more I could still learn about these groups, this course gave me a starting point from which I can go into further details. Being a high school student in a university course such as this one also allowed me to experience what post graduation education would be like and this course specifically heightened my expectations and lowered my rate of fear. In conclusion, First Nations Studies 100 was a very fascinating course to take developing my knowledge on Aboriginal people, who I will encounter in my day to day life, and I would highly recommend this class to others

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