The 5 B's of Success for Teaching Aboriginal Students. Monograph No. 5.

N

11

Teachers; Practitioners

American Indian Education; Beliefs; Canada Natives; Educational Philosophy; Elementary Secondary Education; Foreign Countries; Intercultural Communication; Personal Narratives; Teacher Attitudes; Teacher Role; Teacher Student Relationship; Teaching Experience

This paper proposes teaching strategies that promote positive interactions and scholastic success among Native American students. It is written from the perspective of a non-Native educator who has taught on reservations and at a federal boarding school. While the strategies are geared to the teaching of Native students, the underlying principles may be applicable to any student. Teachers must recognize the value of learning, see themselves as lifelong learners, and keep an open mind about other ways of doing things. Courses in Native Studies, multicultural education, and cross-cultural communication are useful. The five "B's" all have to do with Belief. Teachers must believe first in themselves as learners, and second in their students; they must hold high expectations for student success, and be aware of and sensitive to home and commmunity situations. Thirdly, teachers must believe that Native people are responsible for themselves and are capable of choosing their own future. Fourth, teachers must believe that the school and its staff can fulfill their mission. And finally, teachers must believe in what they teach, have a rationale for their subject materials, and recognize the need for relevance to students' lives. Personal vignettes illustrate each of these points. Seven resources for classroom techniques and activities are listed. (SV)

1992

ED345919