Two-Eyed Seeing is a guiding principle that acknowledges the multiple perspectives available resulting from colonization. It means using the strengths of different perspectives and ways of thinking and using them in harmony for the greater good. It involves working together instead of considering one way of thinking as superior to others. Respecting each other and teaching each other to find solutions together is part of Two-Eyed Seeing. As described by Albert Bartlett, Two-Eyed Seeing “refers to learning to see from one eye with the strengths of Indigenous knowledges and ways of knowing, and from the other eye with the strengths of Western knowledges and ways of knowing, and to using both these eyes together, for the benefit of all” (Barlett, p. 335).

I believe this concept can influence my teaching practices by removing the idea that one method of studies is superior to the other. So often we, as a colonial society, focus on the scientific method and western ways of thinking without considering that it’s strengths can be learned and taught in tandem with Indigenous knowledge. Weaving the two together can teach cultural awareness and respect while also building respect for the land and the living things around us.

In the below video, Albert Marshall describes Two-Eyes Seeing and how it can benefit our global community as we tackle the climate change crisis.

References

Bartlett, Cheryl, et al. “Two-Eyed Seeing and Other Lessons Learned within a Co-Learning Journey of Bringing Together Indigenous and Mainstream Knowledges and Ways of Knowing.” Journal of Environmental Studies and Sciences [New York], vol. 2, no. 4, November 2012, pp. 331–40, https://doi.org/10.1007/s13412-012-0086-8.

Belonging Forum. “2019 Global Symposium – Albert Marshall – Two-Eyed Seeing.” YouTube, 19 Dec. 2019, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DTJtAdH9_mk.