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Applying Indigenous Approaches to Economics Instruction

Author

Listed:
  • Larry Chavis

    (Institute for American Indian Arts)

  • Laurel Wheeler

    (University of Alberta, Department of Economics)

Abstract

We contribute to the effort to build a more inclusive discipline by offering lessons and teaching strategies derived from the Indigenous peoples of North America. Our proposed relational approach to teaching provides a framework that accommodates many practices already gaining traction in economics. Drawing on the literature on inclusive teaching practices as well as personal narratives from the classroom, we propose a set of principles of Indigenous-influenced economics courses, and we talk about how to translate those principles into applied teaching strategies. We believe borrowing from Indigenous pedagogies can build belonging and community in our classrooms, thereby contributing to a discipline that is more welcoming of a broader range of students.

Suggested Citation

  • Larry Chavis & Laurel Wheeler, 2024. "Applying Indigenous Approaches to Economics Instruction," Working Papers 2024-05, University of Alberta, Department of Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:ris:albaec:2024_005
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    File URL: https://sites.ualberta.ca/~econwps/2024/wp2024-05.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    JEL classification:

    • A20 - General Economics and Teaching - - Economic Education and Teaching of Economics - - - General

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