Lesson 3: The Power of Storytelling in Education

  • Introduction: Storytelling is a powerful tool in Indigenous cultures, used to pass down knowledge, values, and traditions. In diabetes education, storytelling can be used to convey important health messages in a way that resonates with the community.

  • Deep Dive:
    • Role of Storytelling in Indigenous Cultures: Discuss the importance of storytelling in preserving cultural knowledge and promoting health and well-being.
    • Using Storytelling in Diabetes Education: Explore how storytelling can be integrated into diabetes education programs to engage and inspire participants.
    • Creating Educational Stories: Tips for creating stories that effectively communicate diabetes prevention and management messages.

  • Activity: Create a short story that incorporates traditional elements and conveys a key message about diabetes management. Share the story with the group and discuss its impact.

  • Discussion Questions:
    • How does storytelling differ from other forms of education, and why is it particularly effective in Indigenous communities?
    • What are some examples of how storytelling has been used to convey important health messages in Indigenous cultures?
    • How can healthcare providers incorporate storytelling into their diabetes education programs?
    • What challenges might arise in using storytelling as a tool for diabetes education, and how can they be overcome?
    • How can storytelling be used to engage both young and old in the discussion of diabetes prevention and management?