The course will provide introductory knowledge of the history of Indigenous peoples in Canada, related educational experiences and knowledge systems. The course material will work to develop a broader understanding of the important connections between this awareness and the professional responsibilities of educators. Student learning will be supported through the contributions of Indigenous educators, professional practitioners and Elders as they participate in a learning process that is established upon principles which encourage an awareness of both self and others.
Using a relationship based professional learning approach as well as a process of individual and group exploration, students will focus attention on both historic and current events that influence the complex relationships developed between Canada and Indigenous peoples. Furthermore, it will explore the ways in which these events are connected to the social and educational barriers Indigenous peoples and educators encounter today. Students will begin to generate a distinctive understanding of their own personal connections in relation to Canada’s Indigenous peoples, and will further discern the ways in which this deeper comprehension could impact their continued educational practice.
30 Hours/2 Credits