Ethnocomputing with Native American Design

Abstract

This chapter shows how culturally situated design tools can be developed to support traditional culture and individual creativity in Native American communities. The software allows students to simulate traditional craft designs as well as their own creations. By translating the indigenous mathematical concepts and practices embedded in craftwork into the formal mathematics of the school curriculum, students can see math and technology as a bridge to native culture, rather than a barrier. Evaluation of one of the tools has shown statistically significant improvements in students’ mathematics performance as well as an increased interest in information technology.