Working+with+Aboriginal+Communities

=Working With Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities =

Consultation with Aboriginal communities is essential in the development of meaningful Aboriginal perspectives across the curriculum. Building a relationship between schools and their local Aboriginal community will enhance the learning experience of students, and promote Reconciliation through better understanding.

Observing appropriate protocols when working with Aboriginal people and their communities is critical to establishing positive and respectful relationships. Consultation should always be seen as a two-way process, with both parties learning together and from each other.

Providing Aboriginal people with the opportunity to become involved in school programs gives authenticity to local Aboriginal perspectives. Students, schools and communities all benefit from encouraging Aboriginal people to share their knowledge and life stories.

Aboriginal people are the owners and custodians of their knowledge and culture. They have the right to be consulted when aspects of Aboriginal history and culture are being incorporated into the school curriculum.

The inclusion of Aboriginal content across the curriculum has led many educators to recognise the value of including Aboriginal people in their planning and teaching. However, some have been unsure of the most appropriate way to approach Aboriginal community members.

As custodians of their cultures and languages, Aboriginal people alone possess the necessary knowledge, skills and experiences to give authenticity to Aboriginal studies and perspectives in schools. Where applicable, they should be approached to provide this expertise.

When implementing syllabus content related to Aboriginal people it is vital that local Aboriginal history and culture be included. Aboriginal peoples throughout Australia have very diverse and complex histories and cultures. A local study gives meaning to an examination of the similarities and differences between the contemporary experiences of many Aboriginal communities.

Consultation is an ongoing process that benefits all participants equally in helping to ensure that Aboriginal voices are effectively incorporated into the curriculum. It involves establishing a respectful relationship with Aboriginal communities, and demonstrating a willingness to share, to learn and to negotiate. The sharing of knowledge is a two-way process; it follows that members of Aboriginal communities should be shown respect and should be acknowledged for their time and assistance.