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Embedding Indigenous Pedagogy in Professional Learning

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Executive Summary 

Curio Group partnered with a major Australian University to co-design a professional learning module, offering architectural and allied discipline professionals an interactive online platform to integrate Country and First Nations Cultural practices into their work. The initiative emphasises unlearning and relearning to embed methodologies informed by Country, Community, and Culture. Participants can engage in a flexible learning environment designed to promote inclusive practices. 

 

Client Background 

Curio Group have a longstanding partnership with this client, developing professional learning modules across a range of subject areas. This module was a newer partnership with Indigenous academics and built environment practitioners from the University that sought to enhance learner’s understanding and application of Country and First Nations cultural practices within architectural and planning contexts. 

  

Challenges and Objectives 

The academic leads had observed the challenges practitioners faced in effectively integrating Indigenous perspectives into architectural designs and projects. The objective of the project was to bridge this gap by providing structured learning modules aligned with the National Standard of Competency for Architects 2021. 

  

Solution Provided 

We developed an Online Module Environment covering three key performance criteria: implications of project work on Country (PC Three), reciprocity with Community and Culture (PC Eight), and legal and ethical obligations concerning cultural knowledge (PC 15).  

Our design approach ensured that Indigenous knowledge and ways of knowing were embedded throughout the learning journey. We adopted Indigenous pedagogies in the design; building learning through storytelling, which evolved over three years of extensive community consultation. The storytelling was conveyed to learners through filmed yarn circles and consolidated using reflective practice. There was a strong drive for community building throughout the module, so, while the course itself was only short, the capacity for building a community of practice was significantly further reaching.  

Importantly, the visual design and navigation of the course is circular, reflecting how learning is non-linear and constantly evolving. This module was a great example of how when design and technology expertise can work in concert with Indigenous ways of knowing, truly innovative learning is created. 

 

This professional learning module has empowered practitioners to advocate for inclusive practices and cultural respect within their disciplines. For professionals seeking to enhance their learning experiences through embedding First Nations pedagogies, our team are ready to support you. Contact us today to learn more and embark on your journey towards inclusive and culturally responsive design. 

 

 

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