FOUR DIRECTIONS INSTITUTE Teaching the History and Culture of North American Indians

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What is this institute?

     This institute provides the information and skills necessary to teach effectively about the history and culture of North American Indians.  It includes anthropology, archeology, arts, crafts, demographics, food, government, law, linguistics, literatures, music, religion, sociology, storytelling, traditions, and perspectives on historical evidence.  This program is based on the innovative Four Directions pedagogy method developed by Dr. LaMay.  This is an opportunity to expand your knowledge of Native American history and culture and to explore teaching strategies that will make it authentic and exciting to young students.  Guest lecturers will guide participants through experiences that will help them dispel stereotypes and explore the rich contributions of the most diverse population in North America.  The institute will include field trips and numerous teaching resources.

Profile of Dr. LaMay

Julie LaMay, Ph.D. Ancestry:  Blackfeet and Cherokee Ph.D.,  English Composition and American Indian Literatures Professor of English, Chaffey College Director and Professor of Native American Studies, Four Directions Institute Director, Many Circles Foundation Author:  Four Directions of American Indian Literatures: A New Pedagogy Chair, California Indian Conference 2000

Will I receive materials for this institute?

Yes.  You will receive the following books and supplies:

Where will this institute be?

The institute will be at the Lower Commons at California State University, San Bernardino.

When does this institute meet?

From Monday July 16, 2001, through Friday July 27, 2001, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.  There will be a follow up day in the fall, 2001, for the teachers to share their experience using the lessons they developed.

Who may participate?

Any teacher, grades K-12, is invited and welcome to participate.  The institute has something for all grade levels.

What is expected of me as a participant?

The participants are expected to attend all sessions and to be active in the program.  They are to collaborate in a collegial manner with each other.  In the culminating activity, the participants design the overview of a lesson each can implement with his/her students in the 2001/2002 school year.

Will there be research?

Yes.  Participant who are interested have the option to extend their content bank by researching a topic stemming from the institute.  They may register at the institute for either one or two weeks of research.  Information on procedures, requirements, and additional stipends will be given at the institute.

What other benefits will I receive?