Part of UFV's Indigenization strategy has been to "Develop curriculum/courses that reflect indigenous knowledge and ways of knowing across all disciplines/programs, (19)." This includes trying to creatively integrate these pieces and systems of knowledges into the natural sciences as well.
This guide focuses on Canadian Indigenous perspectives in science and resources suggestions. Most of the resources it lays out are not conventional academic resources, but source of grey literature that might be more difficult to find through conventional research. This is not an exhaustive list of resources, merely a broad swath of perspectives from various Canadian Indigenous communities in diverse formats.
There are several ways to access to traditional Indigenous knowledge. These can include...
Traditional academic literature: Many Indigenous scholars publish through the conventional academic channels of journal articles and academic presses. As traditional Indigenous knowledge has recently gained more respect in scholarly circles, many of these researchers will bring in perspectives and knowledge from traditional communities.
Contacting Indigenous knowledge holders: Some will ask for compensation, while others will often be enthusiastic to talk about topics they are passionate about. You can find these knowledge holders through personal network, online groups, social media, cold calling/emailing, or through local events. High-profile individuals may be unlikely to give attention to student requests, but lower-profile individuals may be more excited to share. Remember to treat anyone sharing with respect and gratitude.
Civil society groups: Keep a special eye out for Indigenous groups devoted to a specific science-related practice (such fishing, forestry, environmental stewardship, etc.), as these are often the most avid promoters of synergizing Indigenous knowledge and scientific practice. Generally the people who devote such time and passion to a specific topic or cause are often eager to share their perspectives and evidence. Many are present on social media.
Online Indigenous publications: Many Indigenous groups (bands, non-profits, trade associations, co-operatives, government divisions, etc.) will host websites that include internal publications (reports, surveys, white papers, practical guides) from their community's perspective. Most will not deal with natural sciences directly- but some definitely will. Water management, environment, and fisheries are among the most common topics.
Treaties and archival documents: Both on online repositories and traditional archives will contain documents from the history of Indigenous nations. Many of the most important documents can be found online. Few will likely deal directly with scientific topics, but many will touch on those subjects. Attention to ecological topics like hunting and fishing for example, often feature prominently.
Documentaries and YouTube: Direct observation and testimony is often a great way to learn- especially activities that involve a heavy visual component (trap design, plant identification, etc.). Especially now with so many creators online, it can making finding Indigenous demonstrations of traditional knowledge something within reach. This is particularly true for subject of little interest to urban academics- especially hunting.
Oral traditions: Written culture among Canada's Indigenous population is a more recent phenomenon. Most traditional knowledge was preserved through oral tradition. Some of these have survived in active storytelling cultures, and others have been written down by community members or anthropologists over the centuries.
Helpful key words when searching: