Professional Certificate in Indigenous Education for Climate Change Adaptation

About this Podcast

HOST: Welcome to our podcast, where we explore innovative courses that shape the future of education. I'm thrilled to have Dr. Maria Santiago here today, an expert in Indigenous education and climate change adaptation. Dr. Santiago, welcome! GUEST: Thank you for having me. I'm excited to discuss this important topic. HOST: To start, can you share a bit about your personal experiences working at the intersection of Indigenous education and climate change adaptation? GUEST: Absolutely. I've witnessed firsthand how integrating Indigenous knowledge systems into climate change education empowers students and fosters resilience in their communities. HOST: That's fascinating. How do you see current trends in environmental education influencing this field? GUEST: There's growing recognition that Indigenous knowledge and pedagogies are essential for addressing climate change. This shift is creating new opportunities for collaboration and exchange between Indigenous and non-Indigenous educators. HOST: Undoubtedly, that's a positive development. But there must be challenges in implementing these approaches in the classroom. Can you speak to any obstacles you've encountered? GUEST: One challenge is ensuring that non-Indigenous educators approach this subject with cultural sensitivity and humility. It's crucial to recognize and respect the unique histories, traditions, and perspectives of Indigenous communities. HOST: That's an important point. Looking forward, what do you envision for the future of Indigenous-led climate action in education? GUEST: I believe we'll continue to see more Indigenous educators in leadership roles, driving innovation and shaping climate change curricula. This shift will ultimately benefit both Indigenous and non-Indigenous students, fostering a more inclusive and resilient society. HOST: Dr. Santiago, thank you so much for sharing your insights and experiences with us today. We're excited to see the impact of this professional certificate on the future of climate change education. GUEST: Thank you for having me. It's been a pleasure.