Audio pacemaker: walking, talking indigenous knowledge

  • Authors:

  • Nicola J. Bidwell;Heike Winschiers-Theophilus

  • Affiliations:

  • CSIR: Meraka Institute, Pretoria and Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, Port Elizabeth, South Africa;Polytechnic of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia

  • Venue:
  • Proceedings of the South African Institute for Computer Scientists and Information Technologists Conference
  • Year:
  • 2012

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Abstract

There are mismatches between indigenous knowledge (IK) and the media, representations and abstractions used to gather and depict IK in an increasing number of projects in Africa. We describe new studies that continue our efforts to digitally extend local IK pedagogy in healing with plants in Namibia. We used two novel, technological tools to explore narrative construction and provoke reflection by IK holders and researchers on their interactions with technology. Our tools and methods sought to reduce emphasizing vision and elicit 'ongoing' qualities in making and sharing knowledge. Our analyses show the importance of activity, kinetic relationships and rhythms in walking and talking in knowledge practices. Thus, we advocate mixing modalities in gathering and depicting IK, increasing focus on oral and multi-sensory interfaces and walking in design processes. We also present a design concept that supports links between talking and walking.