Module 4B: Science Path - Humanities in Class Online Courses Forum https://humanitiesinclass.org/community/module-4b-science-path/ Humanities in Class Online Courses Discussion Board en-US Sat, 16 May 2026 01:10:09 +0000 wpForo 60 African ways of knowing https://humanitiesinclass.org/community/module-4b-science-path/african-ways-of-knowing-2/ Sat, 09 Mar 2024 22:33:13 +0000 Focusing on African ways of knowing and expertise is necessary to disrupt the typical frameworks and narratives that pose Africa as the recipient of technologies from the West. Such frameworks have led many to even posit that any evidence of advanced technologies in Africa must have come from outside. Such biases become entrenched and require intentional effort to uproot. 

Ben Okri's focus on the role of storytelling and narrative in various forms of knowing and human imagination, including science and technology, helps push back against simplistic notions of scientific knowledge as "objective fact" that is somehow insulated from the sociopolitical or cultural realm. 

In my history classroom, such content can enrich our study by allowing us to focus on scientific knowledge and the development of technology in African societies in a way that is relevant to the present day, not simply regarding such information as historical curiosities.

]]> Module 4B: Science Path Mandy Rodgers-Gates https://humanitiesinclass.org/community/module-4b-science-path/african-ways-of-knowing-2/ Medicine https://humanitiesinclass.org/community/module-4b-science-path/medicine/ Sun, 03 Mar 2024 05:39:03 +0000 What is biomedicine?

Biomedicine is a branch of medical science that implements biological and physiological practices in the area of medical research and practice. Biomedicine’s focal point is to treat diseases and injuries. Overall, biomedicine is a way to to have equitable access to medicine when needed. 

What are healing cultures?

Healing cultures are beliefs, traditions, and certain practices that relate to healing, physical, and emotional health.  Many African Americans believe that some illnesses are not only physical, but also spiritual. One example of a healing culture is music healing. Other examples are drumming, dancing and body massages. 

 

What is health sovereignty and why is it important?

Health sovereignty is to have the ability  to select medicines that are socio culturally and ecologically accepted. It is important because people are aware that the medicines they will be receiving are reliable  and efficient according to their medical needs.

Mary Perez

]]> Module 4B: Science Path Mary Perez https://humanitiesinclass.org/community/module-4b-science-path/medicine/ Science Path https://humanitiesinclass.org/community/module-4b-science-path/science-topic/ Sun, 03 Mar 2024 05:01:44 +0000 After reading the resources and watching the videos, I learned that it is very important to recognize the value of African ways of knowing as expertise in the fields of science and technology because storytelling plays an essential role in science. As Okri states in his video,  our imaginations should have no limitations when it comes to science and inventing, or researching. Furthermore, African ways of thinking and creativity in iron and blacksmithing in ways that will not be able to be done even with our new technology in the present day. These new  understandings have motivated me to emphasize the major impact of Africa in science and technology.

]]> Module 4B: Science Path Mary Perez https://humanitiesinclass.org/community/module-4b-science-path/science-topic/ Module 4B: https://humanitiesinclass.org/community/module-4b-science-path/module-4b/ Tue, 27 Feb 2024 18:43:48 +0000 As a world history teacher, it is often included in the curriculum how ancient civilizations such as ancient Sumer developed technologies in creation of stronger materials. However, I have noticed that the history and contributions of technology from Africa are not widely available in history resources for middle school. Furthermore, according to the same resource they state that “The ability to create with iron is often understood as a divine gift, and those who affect its transformation are revered, and also feared, for their awesome capabilities.” I felt that this was very important because it shows how connected they are to the earth and how meaningful it was for them to use this material. Oftentimes when I teach, the curriculum only focuses on the fact that there are technological advances and does not cover the appreciation and connection communities have with the earth which was a large part of their values. I will use this understanding to further expand all of my classroom content by being more aware and intentional with classroom discussions when it comes to technology. I will make it a point to not just go by what is solely in my curriculum but also expand on what other sides to history there are. Furthermore, I will also add to my discussions the relationship communities had with the earth and the resources it provided to them.

]]> Module 4B: Science Path Lou Inguito https://humanitiesinclass.org/community/module-4b-science-path/module-4b/ Scienc https://humanitiesinclass.org/community/module-4b-science-path/scienc/ Tue, 27 Feb 2024 04:14:10 +0000 After reviewing these resources, I learned how science and technology not only helped the continent advance but played a critical role in communication and storytelling. I did not realize how science plays an essential part in storytelling, especially in regards to accuracy and facts. It helps give the listener a better understanding of African culture and way of life. So it not only justifies and verifies different African customs, but provides more insight as to how people can use stories to teach important life lessons and skills. Similar to iron welding and making art using iron, because they tell an important story as to how different African cultures see themselves as well as how certain items represent their societies which is very interesting and insightful. 

]]> Module 4B: Science Path Amber Banks https://humanitiesinclass.org/community/module-4b-science-path/scienc/ Module 4B: Science Path https://humanitiesinclass.org/community/module-4b-science-path/module-4b-science-path/ Tue, 27 Feb 2024 04:02:34 +0000 Recognizing the value of African ways of knowing as expertise in the fields of science and technology is extremely important in creating a more inclusive and diverse understanding of these subjects. Africa has a long history of innovation and problem-solving, often using local knowledge and resources in unique ways that can provide valuable insights for modern science and technology.

By incorporating African ways of knowing into classroom content, I can provide a more well-rounded and comprehensive understanding of different approaches to problem-solving and innovation. This can not only expand students' knowledge and appreciation of diverse perspectives, but also encourage critical thinking and creativity by showing different ways to approach complex issues.

Also, recognizing the value of African expertise in science and technology can also help break down stereotypes and bias that may exist in the field. By highlighting the contributions of African scholars and innovators, students can see the importance of diversity in creating new ideas and solutions in STEM fields.

]]> Module 4B: Science Path Hugo Perez https://humanitiesinclass.org/community/module-4b-science-path/module-4b-science-path/ Activity 6 Medicine https://humanitiesinclass.org/community/module-4b-science-path/activity-6-medicine/ Mon, 26 Feb 2024 05:21:07 +0000 Biomedicine refers to a branch of medical science that applies biological and physiological principles to clinical practice, focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and injuries. The term "biomedicine" is used in the singular form to refer to the overarching field or discipline.

In referring to sciences, it likely indicates the diversity and breadth of the field. Biomedicine encompasses various scientific disciplines, bodies of knowledge, and types of medicines that contribute to the understanding and practice of medicine.

Healing cultures refer to the practices, beliefs, and traditions within different societies or communities that relate to healing and health. These cultures encompass the ways in which individuals and communities understand and address illness, utilizing a range of approaches including medical, spiritual, traditional, and alternative healing methods. Healing cultures may vary significantly across different regions and populations based on historical, cultural, and social factors.

]]> Module 4B: Science Path Juan Sandoval https://humanitiesinclass.org/community/module-4b-science-path/activity-6-medicine/ African Ways lead to Creativity and Innovation https://humanitiesinclass.org/community/module-4b-science-path/african-ways-lead-to-creativity-and-innovation/ Mon, 26 Feb 2024 05:15:34 +0000 African ways of knowing provide unique perspectives and insights that may not be present in Western or Eurocentric frameworks. This diversity in approaches to knowledge can lead to more innovation and creativity in the fields of science and technology.

By also acknowledging African ways of knowing helps to combat Eurocentrism and colonial biases that have historically marginalized and suppressed indigenous knowledge systems. By incorporating diverse perspectives, we can create a more inclusive and equitable learning environment.

In terms of expanding classroom content, incorporating African ways of knowing can enrich students' learning experiences by providing them with a broader and more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. This can help students develop a more nuanced understanding of complex topics, appreciate the diversity of knowledge systems, and challenge their own assumptions and biases.

]]> Module 4B: Science Path Juan Sandoval https://humanitiesinclass.org/community/module-4b-science-path/african-ways-lead-to-creativity-and-innovation/ African Ways of Knowing https://humanitiesinclass.org/community/module-4b-science-path/african-ways-of-knowing/ Mon, 26 Feb 2024 04:05:02 +0000 Although at first, these sources seem diametrically opposed, the importance of story is essential in the sciences.  As Okri points out, the only limitations we face are the limitations in our own imaginations.  The story of metallurgy in Africa emphasizes the ingenuity and creativity of ancient African peoples.  Further, the processes and uses of iron have carried through time and space.  As illustrated by the World Heritage Site at Douroula in Burkina Faso, African peoples have utilized their lands and technology to their advantage for millenia.  However, we must also consider the obverse of Okri's argument and recognize that narrative can also undermine legitimacy and authority.  As evidenced in earlier lessons in this course, one must examine the many stories of Africa, including science and mathematics, to develop a deeper understanding of both Africa and the world.

]]> Module 4B: Science Path Jessica Friday https://humanitiesinclass.org/community/module-4b-science-path/african-ways-of-knowing/ Medicine Path Discussion (Discussion Post two) https://humanitiesinclass.org/community/module-4b-science-path/medicine-path-discussion-discussion-post-two/ Sun, 25 Feb 2024 23:45:13 +0000 What is biomedicine?

Biomedicine refers to the branch of medicine that applies biology and biochemistry (two related fields) into the areas of medical research or practice.

What is health sovereignty and why is it important?

Health sovereignty refers to the ability to select medicines that are sociologically and ecologically appropriate for the group at hand. It is important because it allows people to choose what is best for them, instead of being influenced by outsiders.

In which ways is medicine a tool of empire?

Medicine is a tool of empire in that it wields power. Those who have medicine are able to heal, and those who do not cannot heal. As such, those who have the medicine are able to control what happens and what should happen. 

]]> Module 4B: Science Path Damon Liang https://humanitiesinclass.org/community/module-4b-science-path/medicine-path-discussion-discussion-post-two/