Ancient Wisdom, Modern Science: The Integration of Native Knowledge in Math and Science at Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities

Ancient Wisdom, Modern Science is a collection of essays examining the experiences of Native American tribally controlled colleges and universities working to “Indianize” their math and science curricula. Inspired by the writings of the late Vine Deloria and other Indian scholars, tribal college faculty and key administrators are attempting to take control of the science curriculum and create courses and entire degree programs that link Native and Western ways of knowing. With growing confidence, colleges are validating traditional tribal knowledge and exploring scientific concepts from a Native perspective.

Paul Boyer is the author of two reports on the tribal college movement for the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching and the founding editor of Tribal College: Journal of American Indian Higher Education. His recent publications include Building Community: Reforming Math and Science Education in Rural Schools and New Directions in Math and Science. He holds a doctorate in educational theory and policy from Pennsylvania State University.