First Nations ways of knowing in science Posted in News, Publications, Teaching and Learning on November 19, 2024 by Glenda Key. The ACDS has recently released a position statement calling on the leadership of Australian University Science faculties to develop a long-term vision and appropriate resourcing to embed First Nations ways of knowing into science curricula and support First Nations staff and students. The ACDS acknowledges and celebrates the knowledge and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. We respect First Nations people as the stewards of the oldest continuous culture in the world and acknowledge their history, body of scientific learning and values as well as their contributions to contemporary Australian life, science and culture. The ACDS is committed to reconciliation and aims to support Science Faculties to appropriately represent First Nations knowledge, history and culture in science curricula and to improve the experiences of First Nations staff and students. Embedding First Nations ways of knowing into university science curricula and supporting First Nations staff and students requires leadership through appropriate resourcing and recognition for those who develop curricula and support systems, and who engage with local First Nations communities. Developing partnerships with these communities and empowering First Nations staff is essential for the development of a supportive environment and meaningful curriculum. A long‐term vision is needed so that we increase First Nations representation in university careers and science, by supporting students to succeed. We support the Universities Australia Indigenous Strategy 2022‐2025 and suggest it is a useful guide in developing local strategies. You can read the ACDS position statement or download a PDF version here.
