Where Global Science Meets Local Wisdom
Our contextualized science services root learning in shared understanding. Are you using textbook examples from temperate climates to explain principles in the tropics? If students struggle to see themselves in the history of science, RIFI can provide the mirror. A professionally contextualized framework gives you the decisive edge to:
- Increase engagement with familiar phenomena and culturally resonant examples.
- Build bridges between indigenous knowledge systems and formal science.
- Foster pride and identity by centering African innovators in the science story.
- Enhance comprehension through metaphors and analogies from the local environment.
Our Approach to Culturally Contextualized Science
Our methodology is guided by four commitments:
Work Hyper-Locally
We partner directly with local educators and knowledge holders to find authentic, meaningful points of connection for your specific context.
Integrate to Deepen Understanding
We expertly weave contextual examples into the core curriculum to make abstract concepts more relatable and memorable.
Design with Respect
Our process ensures science education affirms local identity and wisdom, fostering a reciprocal and very respectful learning exchange.
Leverage Community Assets
We start with the strengths and knowledge already present in the community, using them as a powerful foundation for new learning.
Our contextualized science services let you teach from a place of shared understanding
Are you using textbook examples from temperate climates to explain ecological principles in the tropics? If students struggle to see themselves in the history of science, RIFI can provide the mirror. A professionally contextualized framework gives you the decisive edge to.
Core Components of
Our Contextualization Approach
We work with you to adapt content, context, and teaching methods, ensuring scientific concepts are taught through familiar examples and resonate with students’ lived experiences and heritage.
Local Knowledge Integration Workshops
We facilitate dialogues between teachers, elders, and knowledge holders to identify synergies between local practices (e.g., fermentation, herbal medicine, agriculture) and scientific concepts.
Development of Culturally Responsive Materials
We co-create teaching aids, story problems, and case studies that feature local landscapes, industries, and community scenarios.
Indigenous Science Connections
We research and highlight the scientific principles embedded in traditional technologies, architecture, agriculture, and ecological management.
Language-Appropriate Science Glossaries
We support the development of science terminology in local languages to aid conceptual understanding for younger learners.
African & Diaspora Scientist Spotlight Series
We provide resources profiling past and present African scientists and inventors, creating relatable role models.
Contextualized Assessment Design
We help design exam questions and project briefs that allow students to apply scientific reasoning to familiar, local contexts.
What educators say about our Contextualized Science approach
