In the heart of Flagstaff, Arizona, a unique event recently took place at Northern Arizona University. The Ke’yah Advanced Rural Manufacturing Alliance (KARMA) hosted an event titled “Acknowledging Culture in 21st Century Learning” on August 26. The day-long gathering brought together families, educators, and scientists to highlight the integration of engineering into the curriculum of tribal schools.
The event was graced by esteemed speakers such as Miranda Haskie, a professor at Diné College, and representatives from Zero Robotics. They showcased the innovative ways in which schools in the Black Mesa area, Little Singer Community School in Winslow, St. Michael’s Indian School, and classrooms at Second Mesa on the Hopi Reservation have introduced engineering into their educational framework.
A key highlight of the day was the hands-on experience with LEGO robotics and motors. Students were encouraged to learn and explore through play, resulting in the creation of kinetic sculptures. These creations were proudly presented to the adults present at the event.
One such student, Bailey, demonstrated her kinetic sculpture – a house topped with umbrellas, inspired by the popular movie “Up”. She explained to the staff of NAU Center for Science Teaching and Learning how she used a light sensor to manipulate the motors’ speed and direction. Her innovative use of electronics left the audience impressed.
Another student, Anna, took Luther Lee, Director of Tribal Engagement at Arizona Senator Mark Kelly’s Office, through the workings of the hub. Lee expressed his amazement at what these students could create, stating that it was an excellent way to prepare them for higher education.
Lee was introduced to KARMA through his niece and nephew who had participated in the program at Coconino High School. He was particularly captivated by software developer Albert Haskie’s presentation on his app, Adoone’é. The app, programmed using color coding, allows users to navigate the intricacies of the Navajo clan system.
Lee emphasized the importance of continued funding for such programs to enable students to excel in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Mathematics (STEAM). He also acknowledged the need for more STEM/STEAM programs within tribal schools and highlighted the challenges posed by the lack of internet services.
Wilphina Becenti, a Dine’ language teacher at Little Singer School, gave insights into how the staff incorporate the Dine’ Character Traits of Leadership into engineering or any other project at the school. She stressed on the importance of values like K’énisin (Kinship), ákonisin (mindfulness), shił’ílj (value), bííníshgha (merit and will-power) in keeping students grounded amidst the rise of artificial intelligence and other scientific advancements.
The event concluded with an announcement of a follow-up KARMA training for educators scheduled for September 22 and 23 at Northern Arizona University. This event is a testament to the growing importance of integrating electronics, computers, programming languages, and coding into education, particularly within tribal schools. It is a promising step towards bridging the digital divide and empowering students with the necessary skills for a technologically driven future.
