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Connection before curriculum
Connecting with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities begins when connecting with and reflecting on yourself.
It starts with asking yourself why you want to engage and how you hope to strengthen your pedagogical practice and deepen relationships.
It’s also about being aware of your biases, how they inform your beliefs and assumptions – and challenging them. We don't grow in comfort, but when we push and challenge ourselves, we enrich our practice and the experiences of our learners.
Be You strongly recommends engaging with the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership’s (AITSL) Indigenous Cultural Responsiveness Capability Framework and tools below before using the Be You culturally responsive resources. Self-reflection is important before learning about the First Nations' perspectives in these resources.
The Be You resources on this page have been designed for educators who wish to invite genuine connection and deepen engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, young people, families and communities. When understanding your intent and beginning to engage purposefully, your cultural responsiveness will benefit your whole learning community and beyond.
Self-care
You may feel uncomfortable or challenged when engaging with the AITSL tools.
That’s OK. This is your space to reflect on your assumptions or biases and learn, either on your own or with the support of your colleagues.
If you require further support, connect with your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) or one of these mental health services and support helplines.
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AITSL Indigenous Cultural Responsiveness Self-Reflection Tool
This online tool poses questions to help you reflect deeply on assumptions, attitudes and biases about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, histories, languages and cultures. It will generate a report, giving you a starting point for your further development and learning.
AITSL recommends you use this tool before exploring the Indigenous Cultural Responsiveness Capability Framework (below), so you have a clear sense of where your current attitudes, experiences and behaviours place you along the Indigenous Cultural Responsiveness Continuum.
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AITSL Indigenous Cultural Responsiveness Capability Framework
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AITSL Indigenous Cultural Responsiveness Continuum