Time Perception: The manner in which time is viewed as being either polychronic or monochronic.

Polychronic: Does many things at once. Their concept of time is free-flowing and changes depending on each situation. Distractions and interruptions are a natural part of life and must be taken in stride. Often show commitment to people and relationships over just a job. (United Language Group)

Monochronic: Focus on doing one thing at a time, concentrating on the job at hand without distractions, and viewing previous commitments as critical, and not optional. Emphasize the value of being prompt no matter what, keeping to plans as best they can . (United Language Group)

In Indigenous cultures time is viewed as cyclical (follows seasons of the year), non-linear, multidimensional (natural/spiritual/relational concepts)and generational (flows from the generations previous and forwards. Decision-making is related to natural cycles and is future oriented.

1. Based on the above information, what way of viewing time would Indigenous people generally use and why?

2. Based on the two ways of viewing time, which category would you fall into and why?

3. Based on how Indigenous people view time as cyclical (based on seasons), are there examples at school, in your personal life, or at work where things happen periodically the same time each year? Give three examples and briefly explain.