2013/11/01 by Judy M. Iseke · 1 citation
Social Sciences · #Indigenous Health, Education, and Rights #Adult and Continuing Education Topics #Service-Learning and Community Engagement
paper · doi:10.1525/irqr.2013.6.4.559
openalex publication_date 2013/11/01 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/08/01
Story is a practice in Indigenous cultures that sustains communities, validates experiences and epistemologies, expresses experiences of Indigenous peoples, and nurtures relationships and the sharing of knowledge. Storytelling is also a central focus of Indigenous epistemologies, pedagogies, and research approaches. Excerpts from discussions by Métis Elders, whose stories and histories are shared, suggest a complex mindfulness and require “deep respect” in research (Iseke & Brennus, 2011, p. 247). Elders’ stories inform discussions of (a) storytelling types (mythical, personal, and sacred), (b) storytelling as pedagogical tools for learning about life, (c) storytelling as witnessing and remembering, and (d) sharing stories of spirituality as sources of strength. Discussions follow.