Course Descriptions
Fall 2007 Courses
Four Exciting New NAS Offerings
Lakota Studies -- NAS 493I (3 credits)
This course will be taught by Robert Pirner on Mondays, from 5:00-7:50 p.m. at the Downtown WVU Library. Students will study and discuss the art, politics, history, religion, social problems, and culture of the Lakota people of the Northern Plains. Utilizing written materials as well as the Lakota oral tradition, students will learn how the Lakota Nation has resisted and adapted in a rapidly changing world. The course is led by a thirty-year resident of the Rosebud Lakota Reservation, tribal college administrator, and advisor to the film "Dances with Wolves."
Note: the following three courses may be taken in sequence for a total of 3 credits, or individually for 1 credit per course.
Research with Native Peoples -- NAS 493E (1 credit)
Taught by Dr. Ginny Majewski on Wednesdays, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. in the Downtown WVU Library. This one-credit course will provide an introduction to special issues and concerns for those students proposing to carry out research projects of importance to Native Americans or other indigenous groups. Students will examine historical factors related to colonization and the impact of Western research methodologies on Native populations. The class will further explore the response of Native researchers to such methodologies and how collaborative partnerships lead to more informed research findings. While students will not have sufficient time to complete a research project, they will formulate a research question and preliminary design in the spirit of collaboration and empowerment of all partners in the research enterprise.
Native Voices: Sites and Stories -- NAS 493F (1 credit)
Taught by Travis Henline on Wednesdays, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. in the Downtown WVU Library. This course will provide an overview of the issues, efforts, and opportunities in the public presentation of America Indian history and culture in museums, historic/heritage sites, and state/national parks. The manner in which relationships are formed between indigenous peoples and public education organizations will be examined in an effort to understand issues and opportunities for the inclusion of the Native voice. Additionally, the course will examine how Native people's involvement with these organizations has led to cultural revitalization and opportunities to combat stereotypes, misinformation, and racism.
Issues in Native American Health Research -- NAS 493G (1 credit)
Taught by Karen Manzon on Wednesdays, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. in the Downtown WVU Library. This course will look at American Indian health research issues. Students will examine why the Navajo Nation banned all outside research. A critical reasoning process will be applied to discuss the boundaries of ethical research. The successful student will develop practical skills for community-based research partnerships. Topic covered will include: Community-based Participatory Research & Cultural Humility; the NWPAIHB (Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board) Model Tribal Research Code, Ethical Issues in Community-based Participatory Research; Havasupai--A Case Study, Community Health Participatory Planning: Empowering Communities. Although no textbook is required, important articles and book chapters will be assigned accordingly.
Three Courses Required for the NAS Minor:
(Good News: all 3 meet general education curriculum requirements!)
Introduction to Native American Studies -- NAS 200 (3 credits)
Taught by Bonnie M. Brown and Travis Henline. There will be four sections offered. Consult the online course schedule for times and locations. The course surveys the major Native cultural groups, their historical and contemporary contributions to American society, and honoring Native peoples’ culture, language, spirituality, and identity.
Literature of Native America -- English 156 (3 credits)
Taught by Dr. Ellesa High on Tuesday & Thursday from 11:30-12:45.
American Indian History -- History 264 (3 credits)
This course will not be offered during the Fall '07 sessions.
Other Courses to Choose from:
Professional Field Experience -- NAS 491 (1-6 credits)
Supervised by Bonnie M. Brown. Research schedule and credit awarded will be.
Independent Study -- NAS 495 (1-6 credits)
Supervised by Bonnie M. Brown. Research schedule and credit awarded will be arranged.