CONT944: BC Indigenous Peoples Specialist
This course examines how educators can embody leadership and allyship in Indigenous education. Expertise in Indigenous cultures is a continuous and humble process of lifelong learning, rather than a defined status. The course focuses on the role of educators in ensuring the well-being and value of Indigenous students and their families. You will dig into positionality and explore how settler colonialism is entrenched in education systems.
The focus is on leadership, policy, the lasting effects of colonialism, and the pursuit of Indigenous self-determination. It is of critical importance for educational leaders to ensure that schools provide a safe and inclusive environment for all students, especially for those who have been marginalized and whose stories need to be told. You will develop greater confidence in advocating for, establishing positive relationships with, and empowering your Indigenous students, in turn strengthening your school community's capacity to do the same.
Learning Outcomes
What You Will Learn and Do
In this course you’ll have the opportunity to
- analyze the historical and contemporary legacies and realities of colonization affecting Indigenous peoples and communities
- explore Indigenous perspectives and methodologies and learn how to transfer them appropriately and authentically into your practice
- develop a respectful and inclusive approach to Indigenous education by understanding biases and systemic structures which continue to act as barriers to equity and justice
- diversify your skill set and enhance your confidence when developing relationships with students, families, and community stakeholders
- embody allyship to advocate for culturally safe and culturally relevant programming and curriculum
- develop a personalized understanding of decolonization to make meaning of the ways you can enact structural change in your current role in the education system
Assessments
Module 1
Understanding Yourself and Your Responsibilities in Educational Leadership
Module 2
Creating Ethical Spaces with Mind, Body, and Spirit
Progress Update 1
Module 3
Impact of Colonization on Indigenous Youth
Module 4
Supporting Indigenous Youth and Families Within Colonial Institutions
Formative Assessment
Module 5
Transformational Allyship and Action Leadership
Progress Update 2
Module 6
The Path Forward as an Ally and Lead
Summative Assessment