Technology Education in a Sámi School : Using Cultural Artefacts as a Learning Tool

• Main Author: Axell, Cecilia
• Format: Conference Object
• Language: English
• Published: Linköpings universitet, Lärande, Estetik, Naturvetenskap (LEN) 2019
• Subjects: Technology Education; Indigenous Technology; Sámi S; Learning; Lärande; Northern Sweden
• Online Access: http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:liu:diva-158487

The aim of this study is to explore the nature of technology education in a Sámi school, in order to identify the potential of indigenous Sámi knowledge for broadening the horizons of technological literacy. This paper presents the findings from the initial analysis of the empirical material. The purpose was to identify which specific artefacts play a central role in technology education in a Sámi school, and how the artefacts are implemented in technology education to convey technological knowledge. The participants (teachers and pupils) were all from the same Sámi School in Northern Sweden. The method employed was participatory observation and empirical material consists of field notes, recorded conversations, photographs and children’s drawings. The findings show that technology education is strongly connected to specific artefacts that are important in Sámi culture. Technology Education is grounded in a holistic view of knowledge and to a large extent integrated with other school subjects. The knowledge system embedded in technology teaching is collective and related to both artefacts and activities. Myths and storytelling are frequently used to contextualise the technological content, and the historical aspect of technology is largely present since connections between older and newer technological solutions are made. Technological knowledge, activities and specific artefacts are not only attributed a practical value, but also given a symbolic value, since a common knowledge base in Technology contributes to strengthening the children’s cultural identity.