Course Description and Past Syllabi

Course Description and Learning Objectives

This course provides an introduction to––and practical experience with––tribal libraries, archives and museums, with a special emphasis on Indigenous Knowledge and the tribal cultural institutions of the western Great Lakes region. It is designed to facilitate a participatory learning experience through presentations, readings, semester-long service-learning projects, and personal contact with tribal cultural workers. The course is structured around a combination of classroom discussions, guest speakers, travel to American Indian communities, and attendance at events relevant to course topics.

Upon completion, you will be able to:

demonstrate an understanding of Indigenous Knowledge;
recognize the linguistic, legal, cultural, political, and economic issues influencing tribal cultural institutions;
appreciate the contributions of American Indian tribal cultural institutions;
articulate the best practices for developing mutually-beneficial partnerships with Indigenous communities;
conduct group projects and partner with tribal cultural institutions effectively;
appreciate the role of culture in the Library and Information Studies professions;
feel increased confidence in working with American Indian communities.

Course Syllabi

Click to view the course syllabus from a given year: