Native American Studies

NAS  100            anishinaabe-bimaadiziwin  INTRODUCTION TO CULTURE        3 cr

This is an introductory course designed to give students an understanding of the values and traditions of Ojibwe society and culture.  By focusing on the historical, seasonal living cycle of the Ojibwe, students will have opportunities to participate in traditional activities and gain greater understanding about contemporary Anishinaabeg. History, language, ceremonies, and arts will be included throughout the course. (Fall, Spring)

NAS  101           OjibwEmowin I          4 cr

Ojibwemowin I is intended for beginners and introduces students to the four language skill areas: listening, speaking, reading and writing, There will be an emphasis on speaking and listening as well as grammar and language structure analysis. Aspects of Ojibwe culture will complement language development. No previous knowledge of the Ojibwe language is required. (Fall)

NAS  102           OjibwEmowin II         4 cr

This course continues the review of language structures begun in Ojibwemowin I (NAS 101) and expands the knowledge of grammar, vocabulary, speaking and listening. Regular recycling of grammar and vocabulary encourages students to become more fluent in their use of the language and to apply it creatively in new contexts. Students will participate regularly in conversational activities, small group work, and role-plays. Pre-requisite: NAS 101 or by placement test and/or consent of instructor. (Spring)

NAS  110           Introduction to Native American History        3 CR

This course will provide an introduction to the historical background of issues affecting Indigenous peoples, with a focus on the Native peoples of the United States. The course will survey topics in the history of indigenous people from European contact to the present. We will explore the diversity of indigenous cultures. In addition, the reaction of these different groups to the challenge of European contact will be a central part of this course. (Fall)

NAS  201           OjibwEmowin III         4 cr

This course continues the review of language structures begun in the NAS 101-102 sequence. There will be a continuing emphasis and development of conversational skills, dialogues, group activities and theme based units focused on traditional Ojibwe activities. (Fall) Pre-requisite: NAS 102 or by placement test and/or consent of instructor.

NAS  202           OjibwEmowin IV        4 cr

Students will engage in discussion and analysis of Ojibwe text, audio and video resources to expand their knowledge and understanding of the Ojibwa language. Speeches, dialogues, and role-plays will aid in the development of language skills. This course also serves as direction for continuing long-term study of the Ojibwe language and includes learning strategies to expand and develop advanced language abilities. Pre-requisite: NAS 201 or by placement test and/or consent of instructor. (Spring)

NAS 205           OJIBWE HISTORY TO 1871                3 CR

This course will examine the historical development of Ojibwe communities to1871. Topics will include changes in traditional cultural, migration, European contact, the fur trade, and treaties. The history of Odaawaa-Zaaga'inaning (Lac Courte Oreilles) will be a central part of the course. (Fall)

NAS 206             OJIBWE HISTORY SINCE 1871           3 CR

This course will examine the historical development of Ojibwe communities since 1871. Topics will include the formation of reservations, dispossession of land, and natural resources, and cultural revival. The history of Odaawaa-Zaaga'iganing (Lac Courte Oreilles) will be a central part of the course. (Spring)

NAS  212             Wisconsin Native history                          3 cr

This course examines the history of Wisconsin's Native people. Topics include the fur trade, the Black Hawk War, treaties, allotment, IRA, and Termination. (Spring)

NAS  213             U.S. INDIAN POLICY        3 cr

This course provides an examination of policy development regarding Indian nations and their relationship to local, state, and federal governments.  Topics covered include: trust responsibility, IRA, sovereignty, treaties, past and present legislation affecting Native peoples. (Fall)

NAS  219            NATIVE AMERICAN  LITERATURE        3 CR

This course will focus on literacy works pertaining to Native people, with an emphasis of works by Native authors. A wide variety of literacy genres will be explore, including novels, poetry, and short stories. Discussion will center around the cultural and historical context of these works. (Fall) 

NAS 222            Introduction to tribal government        3 cr

This course will examine the challenge of reservation governance and will involve political, economic, and intergovernmental perspectives.  The social problems of Native American communities will be addressed with respect to responsibilities perceived, and the legal and traditional duties of local government.  (Spring)

NAS  224            NATIVE AMERICAn LAW        3 CR

An examination and analysis of historical and contemporary legal issues affecting Native American peoples.  Topics covered will include: tribal law, constitution, sovereignty, civil and criminal jurisdiction, gaming, and treaty rights.  (Fall)

NAS  230             OJIBWE LITERATURE & STORIES                3 cr

This course offers a study and analysis of the different types of Native stories and their function in Native culture and identity.  Ojibwe stories shall comprise a large portion of course content.  (Spring)

NAS  240            Ethnobotany w/ Lab        4 cr

This course offers a study of local plants and their environmentl.  This study includes identification, philosophy and botanical principles of plants.  The identification involves learning the common/local name of plants, scientific name, and Ojibwa name.  The philosophy includes general use of plants with an emphasis on awareness and respect of plants, which is important to the Ojibwa tradition.  Study includes the physical/physiological makeup of plants and their habitat or community where they are found.  (Fall, Spring)

NAS  242         Nenda-nibwaakaang   Native american Philosophy         3 cr

An arena for discussion about issues and concerns of Native people living in a diverse and changing world.  Students will discuss and analyze topics relating to the values, attitudes, and beliefs of the Nation’s people.  (Spring)

NAS 250          Selected Studies        1-4 cr

Topics will reflect particular competencies of the faculty, and will consider the needs and requests of the student. (Fall, Spring)

Descriptions           Table of Contents                     Schedule