Native Ways of Knowing

In 1995, Angayuqaq Oscar Kawagley, Ph.D., wrote a book titled A Yupiaq World View: A Pathway to Ecology and Spirit. (Waveland Press) The book was based on research and writings he had done for his doctoral dissertation at the University of British Columbia. In the book, Kawagley provides an insider’s perspective on how the Yupiaq people of Southwest Alaska have continued to draw upon and adapt old and new ways to make sense of the world around them.

As a professor at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, Oscar adapted this original work and much continued research into a course called Native Ways of Knowing. Working with KUAC-TV in Fairbanks, a semester-long telecourse was offered over the Alaska public television stations. Native Ways of Knowing was facilitated and broadcast using new technologies and included students from several Alaska sites through interactive video and audio connectivity.

The telecourse and television series Native Ways of Knowing looks at the intersection of diverse world views and knowledge systems through examples and illustrations by the instructor. Along with the students, Kawagley explores indigenous knowledge systems and how indigenous knowledge and Western science converge.

The series is not currently being offered as a course by television. The television programs, however, illustrate a very unique way of thinking for the 360 North audience and provide a valuable resource and interesting educational experience to viewers.

Native Ways of Knowing
Tuesday at 9:30 pm
starting March 18th