Spirit of Independence

Native child rearing philosophies place great emphasis on "guidance without interference" (Bendtro et al, 1990). Learning then becomes the responsibility of the student who can be held accountable through appropriate assessment procedures. Student empowerment is required to foster the belief that a student is in control of the learning process. This sense of autonomy is a powerful intrinsic motivator. In Native American culture the internal locus of control must be balanced by social controls. Students first need to be dependent, learning to respect and value the wisdom of "elders". Modelling provides a basic framework which can be adjusted by each student to adapt to his/her particular learning style and multiple intelligences.

Spirit of Independence	Distorted Spirit of Independence	Broken Spirit of Independence
Autonomous	Dictatorial	Submissive
Confident	Reckless/Macho	Lacks Confidence
Responsible	Sexual Prowess	Irresponsible
Inner Control	Manipulative	Helplessness
Self-Discipline	Rebellious	Undisciplined
Leadership	Defies Authority	Easily Led

Mending a Broken Spirit

• Model decision making and assist students in developing their own framework.
• Give choices for activities to recognize multiple intelligence development.
• Involve students in participatory decision making.
• Train students how to study and to learn.
• Help students develop internal controls - an inner self discipline for student empowerment.
• Teach alternative behaviours to improve personal control.
• Confront students with issues of personal responsibility.
• Let students face the consequences of their behaviour.