VIRTUAL New Schools of Thought
Abstract
Higher Education in Australia is largely informed by university systems and institutions that reflect Western, capitalist ideals and thoughts. The inclusion of First Nations ways of knowing, being and doing is a breath of fresh air for students, offering teaching and learning experiences that honour humanity, humility and connection with each other and our natural and spiritual realms. The Big 5 provides educators with a simple but profound introduction to First Nations pedagogies that promotes a transformative shift in how teaching and learning is understood, delivered and experienced. A commitment to social justice, cultural preservation and environmental sustainability provide the foundation of the Big 5 and ensure that as educators we remain focused on the bigger picture and goals. The Big 5 inclusive First Nations pedagogies honour the wisdom and ways of generating and transmitting knowledge that have sustained Australia’s First Peoples and cultures for tens of thousands of years and promote holistic approaches, connectivity, interactive and process-based learning and storytelling. First Nations pedagogies value experience, dialogue and purpose and for these reasons and more, can offer students a truly enriched and inclusive learning journey.
Dr Cally Jetta resides in Mandjagoordap, Binjarub Noongar Country, in the South-West of W.A with her husband, sons and much extended family. Cally has over 14 years of secondary teaching experience and a passion for coordinating Aboriginal Education cohorts and programs. For the past three years she has taught at the College for First Nations, University of Southern Queensland, specialising in developing original First Nations courses.