This site was developed for a Netscape browser. If you do not have it, you might want to download Netscape, as it will enhance the images and graphics.
This site is part of an integrated, experimental learning project that combines in-classroom learning with the information contained on this World Wide Web site. In other words, it uses the WWW as an interactive educational tool that is part of a broader learning project--a unique use of the Web.
The purpose of the Lakota Teaching Project is to help Lakota Middle School students better understand their heritage and traditional values. It does this through examination of Tiyospaye (or extended family), Oyate (all the people) and the stories, rituals and values that are at the foundation of Lakota culture and society.
This site can also be viewed on its own and provides a capsule look at a small portion of traditional Lakota wisdom, teachings and beliefs.
The Teaching Project was developed by many Lakota individuals and educators who supplied the content and by Virtuous Reality Interactive, Inc. which did all the formatting, coding and technical development.
Here is what you will see if you click on the Home Page Fire Circle:
- Mitakuye Oyasin - An audio greeting in the Lakota language.
- Hocoka - A brief explanation of this spiritual principle.
- Tiyospaye- The Lakota extended family concept.
- Oyate - The seven Sioux Council Fires, and the council fires that make up each.
- Stories - The "Creation of the Universe," "The Pte People," and "The Founding of the Four Directions." Also a listing of Lakota Gods.
- Rites - The seven sacred rituals handed down by the Sacred White Buffalo Calf Maiden.
- Values - Some values that are important in Lakota society.
- Guides - The personal home page created by a Lakota woman as a guide for students to create their own home pages. Also, links to other middle school home pages throughout the world.
- Resources - The Resource Center has links to other Web sites of interest to students and teachers. It will also contain several biographies of Lakota individuals written by students as part of the Teaching Project.
Teachers can download the Teacher's Guide which gives suggestions for using this WWW site as part of a classroom curriculum.
You might also be interested in learning the Vision and Goals for the Lakota Teaching Project.