Dean Smith will talk about “Two-Eyed Seeing” at the next YMCA Empowerment Session.
Smith believes in and applies the Two-Eyed Seeing approach, as taught by Mi’kmaw Elder Albert Marshall, to his own way of learning and teaching. Smith’s application of “Etuaptmumk” appears as a strong desire to prepare students for the 21st century through the use of Web 2.0 tools (incl. Google Classroom and D2L) and in nurturing their critical thinking skills through a lens of authentic Indigenous traditional teachings.
Dean Smith is an off-reserve member of the Pictou Landing First Nation and a 30 veteran of the education system in Ontario, teaching Northumberland students in elementary and secondary positions, and most recently as a professor in the Liberal Studies faculty at Durham College.
Dean helped us understand the basics of “Two-Eyed Seeing”.
“Two-Eyed Seeing” is a guiding principle found in Mi’kmaq Knowledge as reflected in the language. In Elder Albert’s words, this approach invites us to “learn to see from your one eye with the best or the strengths in the Indigenous knowledge and ways of knowing … and learn to see from your other eye with the best or the strengths in the mainstream (Western or Eurocentric) knowledges and ways of knowing … but most importantly, learn to see with both these eyes together, for the benefit of all”.
Smith will share his lived experience and the practice of “Two-Eyed Seeing” which has informed his work as a teacher and his approach in life.
Dean believes that the path to reconciliation is by actively honouring our children and youth.
As a guest on Michi Saagig Terrritory Dean, as an off-reserve member of the Pictou Landing First Nation, will frame his answers with Mi’kmaw Elder Albert Marshall’s concept of “Two-Eyed Seeing.
Dean’s talk at 6 pm Thursday, at Venture 13 on D’Arcy Street in Cobourg, is the latest in the YMCA Empowerment Series and it’s sure to leave you questioning and curious to learn more.
Smith is a captivating speaker, asking the audience to consider their own beliefs and ways of life while bringing attention to the complexity and richness of Indigenous pedagogy and ways of seeing.
Written by Joseph Goden
