Re: 7th grade "historical simulation" program HONOR?
David T Rayson (rays0001@gold.tc.umn.edu)
Thu, 22 Sep 1994 06:54:55 -0500
Further information on historical simulation project for 7th grade class
on Native Americans. The simulation is presented through an organization
called "Interact" whose slogan is "Learning Through Involvement". The
person who created the program is listed as Dan DeKock. I raised my
concerns with my daughter's teachers and they were quite receptive to the
issues I raised. I was given a copy of the Teaching Guide which was even
worse than I had thought with numerous inaccuracies and insensitivities
including suggestions that the Teacher when talking to the class as a
"Village Chief" they are to "do so in a manner that commands respect from
tribal members (i.e., your students). For example, speak slowly with the
exaggerated emphasis and poise of an elevated leader." In other words,
as a "Hollywood" chief. I also contacted the curriculum resource person
at the Four Winds School here in Minneapolis and she has contacted the
teachers to review the material (Four Winds is a Native American magnet
school within the Minneapolis Public School System and has daily access
to both Ojibwe and Dakota elders). I am also meeting with the teachers
involved and have already been asked to present some points for
discussion of this issue among the students. I am feeling better that
some positive things will come out of this. I would like to know if
anyone has heard of "Interact" or if anyone has had experience with
simulations which are sensitive -- In the Interact catalogue there is one
that shows a bit more promise called "Mahopa" (includes fictional tribes
but living within generally accepted Culture Areas with historical
descriptions of activity). This one was written by John Wesley. Thanks
again for any information.
David Rayson
rays0001@gold.tc.umn.edu