In addition to lecture and discussion, the following teaching/learning activities are suggested:
1. Learning Activities
Use Learning Activities inserted throughout the module.
2. Case Study Discussions
Assign students to read and prepare for discussion one or more of the cases included in the module and Learning Activity 3 on Dementia.
3. Research on Availability of Care
Ask students to research the availability of outpatient care, hospital care, long-term care, and senior centers for Indian elders in their area.
4. Interviews
Ask one or more older adults of American Indian background for permission to have students visit and interview them or to come to class and talk about their experiences, especially in relation to issues such as Boarding Schools.
See Interview Strategies in Culture Med Ethnogeriatrics Overview
5. Reading Assignments
Assign students to read the book by Lori A. Alvord & Elizabeth Van Pelt. The Scapel and the Silver Bear: The First Navajo Woman Surgeon Combines Western Medicine and Traditional Healing, or one of the other books or articles on the Suggested Reading list, and write a critique or present it in class.
6. Cohort Analysis
If there is an Indian Native community available, ask the students to use the cohort analysis model as a basis to develop one that is specific to the historical experiences of the elders in that community.
7. Research on Illnesses
Ask students to identify the tribal affiliation(s) of older patients that health care providers are most likely to see in your area and research the explanatory models of dementia (or another illness), preferences for end-of-life care, and healing ceremonies traditionally found in those communities.
8. Class Speakers: Traditional Healing Practices
If native healers/medicine people are available, ask them to speak to the class.
