As a student with an Astronomy background, I use scientific and mathematical terms very often, and it is hard not to, since that is what I've been accustomed to for the years of my study. It is a helpful tool for categorizing objects and topics in a classroom, as it can prevent misunderstandings with clear definitions. However, it could feel dead and mechanical sometimes, since these words could be rather unnatural and unintuitive. And this could risk taking away students' imaginations and free thinking. So, to me, I think it is important to use technical terms for classes, but to also tell them that there are also many other perspectives, and some could give more than just a definition, one that can give meaning and a story.
After reading this article, I learned that we can shape how students see the world just by using different words and terminology. If I insist on only using scientific terms, I could give them the mindset that the universe is only being classified as different objects. By introducing indigenous thinking, we could show students that the world is more than just "things", like treating nature as animate. And through that, we can teach them the importance of respecting and embracing nature.
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