Better Science Education for Native Americans--USGS Collaborates with the Rosebud Sioux Tribe and Sinte Gleska University

By Joseph J. Kerski

The Rosebud Sioux Tribe, Sinte Gleska University, and the USGS signed a Memorandum of Understanding in fall 2000 to work together to enhance science education for Native American students. Since that time, the partnership has fostered successful collaboration--partnerships, workshops, and an online course--a few of which are described here.

Workshop in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for Tribal and Academic Professionals

During 2002, a group of tribal and university professionals from water resources, land records, cultural resources, biology, and other fields gathered for three days of GIS training at Sinte Gleska University (SGU) on the Rosebud Sioux lands in Mission, SD. James Rattling Leaf, from the SGU Sicangu Policy Institute, and USGS geographer Joseph Kerski conducted the workshop, which emphasized the use of digital spatial data, including computer maps, satellite imagery, and aerial photographs. Participants collected field data with Global Positioning Systems (GPS), brought field data into a Geographic Information System (GIS), analyzed base spatial data from the Internet, analyzed natural hazards and demography in the region and on the tribal lands, and engaged in other activities. The goals were to bring different departments and organizations in the Tribal government together to work on joint projects, and to help tribal professionals make wise decisions about the Earth and its people.

In a separate workshop, educators gathered for two days of implementing geospatial technologies in the geography curriculum. These educators were students at SGU who were training to become geography teachers.

Introduction to Geographic Information Systems and Science, Sinte Gleska University

Sinte Gleska University endorsed an online course in GIS as a part of its long-term goal of making SGU a focal point in spatial analysis in the country. The course, located on http://rockyweb.cr.usgs.gov/outreach/sgu/sgugis.html, teaches students the principles, applications, trends, and pertinent issues of GIS. In achieving these goals, students become competent in solving problems with spatial analysis by using GIS software.

Workshops and Information Exhibits at 2001-2003 National Indian Education Association Conferences

The National Indian Education Association Conference provides an excellent means for the USGS to work with the Native American educational community. These conferences attract 3,500 people annually from Tribal governments, nonprofit organizations, and as well as primary, secondary, and university educators. At these conferences, the USGS works with representatives from the Sinte Gleska University, conducting workshops in GIS and mapping, and hosting informational exhibits. This relationship has proven very successful over the last three years and is expected to continue.