How do education and culture interact? It’s a question with many factors and answers depending on the environment being studied. Dr. Jamaine Abidogun, professor of history the new diversity fellow at Missouri State University, has looked at this issue for the past 25 years in African nations – specifically Nigeria.
Her most recent research project was traveling to Nigeria as a Fulbright senior scholar collaborating with other MSU faculty, the University of Nigeria and community members. They were looking at indigenous science knowledge and how it could boost women’s or girl’s participation in science education. She explains.
The Fulbright Program, which Abidogun would encourage anyone to apply for, was a great experience for her each time, she noted. But, for those who aren’t familiar, what are some examples of indigenous science to the Nigerian region? She elaborates.
While studying the culture and educational system, she embeds herself in her work – living on the college campus and observing and talking to people all day long.
Thanks to Abidogun’s relationship with the region and ties she has to the area, Missouri State University’s provost office partnered with the U.S. Embassy in Abuja, Nigeria and hosted the Nigerian Public Affairs Conference on Missouri State’s campus in September 2014.
This recent study came up with a very validating finding, she explains.
She is now working on a multi-authored text called “Gender and Indigenous Knowledge in Nigerian Science Education” which the Nigerian Science Teachers Association has already expressed great interest in.