Indigenous Knowledge in Introductory Chemistry: Use of an Interior Salish Pit-Cooking Practice as a Rich Contextual Framework

Abstract

In response to the Calls to Action of Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission, a learning activity has been developed for use in introductory chemistry, exploring a traditional food-preparation practice of the Syilx and Secwépemc Peoples of British Columbia’s Interior Plateau. The activity begins the course with framing questions highlighting the sophisticated Indigenous knowledge involved in an elaborate and precisely engineered pit-cooking process. As the course progresses, the activity revisits and answers these questions using chemical principles of kinetics, thermodynamics, acid–base chemistry, and organic substitution reaction mechanisms. In alignment with principles of Two-Eyed Seeing, the learning activity fosters appreciation for the sophistication of regional Indigenous knowledge, presented as complementary to Western science. Survey responses (N = 207) indicate a high student interest and engagement with the topic, and thematic analysis of open-ended written responses regarding the activity (N = 33) reveal recognition of a meaningful application of multiple course concepts, admiration for the depth and complexity of the Indigenous knowledge involved, and appreciation for the authentic manner in which an Indigenous cultural context was integrated into the curriculum, demonstrating the activity’s success in promoting an understanding and respect for Indigenous knowledge within a scientific framework.