Teaching Focus and Objectives
I-Shou University has long been committed to nurturing elite talents in Indigenous communities, maintaining a close relationship with their social and economic development. Since the launch of Indigenous specialty programs, the university has utilized key decision-making mechanisms—including class meetings, college meetings, administrative meetings, and university council meetings—to strengthen horizontal collaboration across colleges and programs. This effective integration of internal and external resources has resulted in significant improvements in manpower allocation, curriculum design, faculty recruitment, and industry partnerships.
In terms of curriculum planning, the Indigenous College emphasizes an “industry-academia integration” approach that unites theory with practical application, guided by the core principles of “cultural orientation, practical engagement, professional competency, and community connection.” Besides fundamental courses, the College places great importance on cultural studies. Currently, “Introduction to Indigenous Cultures” is a mandatory course for students in all specialty programs, and they must complete it to graduate. Furthermore, each program requires a certain proportion of Indigenous cultural courses within the total 128-credit framework, aiming to enhance students’ cultural understanding and identity.
To help students comprehend current industry trends and gain practical experience, every specialty program includes an internship component that immerses students in real-world operations. Regarding manpower and funding, since the establishment of the Indigenous College, each specialty program has appointed an additional associate director to oversee resource integration and project implementation. As for faculty, the College not only hires multiple Indigenous teachers but also invites other faculty members within the university who have expertise or strong interest in Indigenous education to transfer into the College. This effort has rapidly expanded the faculty team to several dozen members, effectively resolving the shortage of instructors while greatly enhancing the College’s capabilities in student recruitment, teaching, counseling, internship supervision, and community outreach. Through these efforts, the College strongly manifests the diversity and practical impact of Indigenous education.
Teaching Focus and Objectives
Teaching and Accompaniment
The College will continue to enhance its teaching philosophy of “teaching and accompaniment,” deepening the integration of Indigenous cultures into the curriculum while focusing on holistic student development. Through mentorship programs, peer support, and community engagement, students will receive comprehensive guidance and gradually build a stronger sense of belonging to their tribes and communities.
Campus Cultural Enrichment
To create a more Indigenous-friendly campus culture, the College plans to hold various cultural immersion events and Indigenous music and crafts exhibitions, inviting tribal elders and cultural experts to share traditional knowledge on campus. Through diverse activities and environmental enhancements, the entire campus community can experience the richness and depth of Indigenous cultures.
Talent Development
The College will further refine the curriculum for its Indigenous specialty programs, leveraging resources from industry, government, academia, and research institutions to foster students who possess cultural awareness, professional skills, and social commitment. Going forward, it will proactively seek collaborations with more industry partners and tribal organizations, offering local internships and community service opportunities that empower students to apply their learning in service of Indigenous communities and society at large.
Research and Development
The College will deepen its research on Indigenous traditional culture, lived experiences, and resource applications through interdisciplinary research projects and industry-academia collaborations. It also encourages faculty and students to publish their findings and cooperate with communities in preserving oral histories or implementing cultural revitalization projects. By doing so, Indigenous knowledge can be continuously transmitted and innovated, building a more sustainable foundation for research and development.