Sharina Dodsworth - Ways of knowing more: Cross-cultural and interdisciplinary environmental science education in the Canadian Arctic

We are now being challenged to find new ways of thinking about the earth's complex and changing ecosystems. Indigenous knowledge systems can provide valuable insight as they embody a depth and breadth of adaptive and ecological understanding. In the Canadian Arctic, bringing Inuit voices into environmental management and research is of critical importance. Not only does Inuit knowledge (Inuit Qaujimajatuqanjit) offer unique and beneficial insight on nature, but under the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement, Inuit beneficiaries have been empowered to play a leadership role in management and stewardship of wildlife and natural resources. My research investigates how to foster ''Two-Eyed Seeing'' in land-based education programs. Two-Eyed Seeing, suggested by Mi'kmaq Elder Albert Marshall of Eskasoni First Nation, is the guiding principle for the Integrative Science program at Cape Breton University and is characterized as ''learning to see from one eye with the strengths of Indigenous knowledges, and learning to see from the other eye with the strengths of Western knowledge systems…and then learning to use both eyes together for the benefit of all.'' Recognizing the critical need for environmental interdisciplinarity and dialogue between Western science and indigenous epistemology, my research utilizes participatory action methodology, engaging Elders, community members, scientists and students in determining how together we can find ''ways of knowing more'' about environmental issues ranging from wildlife co-management to climate change adaptation in the Arctic. I will share research and best practises in cross-cultural and interdisciplinary environmental science education.