How to get started...
It is important to note that educators should be seeking support in developing aboriginal perspectives, strategies for starting the consultation process and guidance in developing working relationships with aboriginal communities.
Working with Aboriginal Communities: A Guide to Community Consultation and Protocols - 2008
Building learning partnerships is a fantastic process that leads to mutually beneficial credibility and integrity to the teaching of aboriginal students and syllabus content related to Aboriginal issues.
As the custodians of their language and culture, where applicable, the aborignal community should be approached for their expertise. The following process should be taken as a guide only. The development of this guide was done in accordance to the works of the NSW Government and NSW AECG Inc.
1) IDENTIFY THE LOCAL ABORIGINAL COMMUNITY
In NSW there are over 70 different aboriginal language groups. You will find many Aboriginal people identify themselves with mor ethan one community. If no identifiable community can be established, contact local Aboriginal community organisationa: local Aboriginal Land Councils, Aboriginal Medical, Health or Legal Services.
2) IDENTIFY THE LOCAL AND REGIONAL AECG
Educational authorities acknowledge the NSW AECG Inc. as the leading aboriginal advisory body in regards to Aboriginal education.
3) CONTACT SUPPORT NETWORKS
Support systems have been established by major education providers. These may come in the form of an Aboriginal Education Officer (AEO), Aborignal Education Worker (AEW), the Aboriginal Community Liaison Officers (ACLO) or Aboriginal Education Consultants.
4) CONSIDER PROTOCOLS
These protocols are genreally accepted practice in all of NSW. Some regions may vary so it is best to ask for assisstance from Aboriginal people in the local community.
- Introductory is vital. Prepare yourself to spend time sharing your personal background and purpose
- Be patient. Listen carefully and be mindful that people will take time to be involved and feel comfortable with you.
- Not every Aboriginal person will publicly talk about cultural, family and historical issues with you. Do not push them.
- Be mindful of your eye contact. As an educator, some communities may expect direct eye contact.
- Do no misinterpret silence. This is often a sign of reflection and should not be interrupted.
- Do not force your view. You are there to listen and learn.
- Avoid jargon and disrespectful language
- Family obligations and funerals take priority over everything.
5) CONTACT THE LOCAL COMMUNITY
You may wish to arrange a meeting with an AEO or AEW. Another option is to contact the local Aboriginal Education Consultants.
6) GET TO KNOW THE COMMUNITY
As an educator, you will wish to make yourself known to the wider community. Attend the local Aboriginal Education Consultative Group meetings. These are held regularly and are a great opportunity to meet people and discuss important educational issues.
For the full guide on this process, go to:
http://ab-ed.boardofstudies.nsw.edu.au/files/working-with-aboriginal-communities.pdf