Welcome | Salish Art and Culture | Overview of the Exhibition | About Native Teaching | Resource List | Acknowledgments
Tree People | Skokomish Basket | Song For the Moon | Bone Game
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“Most Americans are unaware of the culture and traditions of the
first people of this land. Primary
school is a perfect time for young people to become acquainted with
traditions of which even many Native Americans aren’t aware. Hopefully young and old can learn together
that the land they live on is inhabited, and has been for centuries, by
people who practice a culture that is still a natural and beautiful part of
the world.” — Vi
Hilbert |
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In Washington State tribal communities, knowledge was learned and passed on by oral tradition; learning by listening and imitating, to develop recall. Information was never written down. Rather, reflective questions were asked in order to strengthen the memory. As a result, an elaborate system of explanatory stories was developed to help represent and explain the origin of the natural world, and of human relationship to the environment. This “collective wisdom” learned through the ages was passed on to each new generation by the elders.
Winter was and continues to be a time when the Native community draws together and shares the stories of the past. In this atmosphere, intergenerational learning is valued and encouraged. In the winter longhouse, skills in storytelling and patient listening are strengthened. Today American Indian educational approaches continue to emphasize experiential learning, storytelling, repetition, and observation.
Finally, it is most important to show appreciation for the learning. Children and adults are always encouraged to be thankful for the lessons gained in any experience.