Creating Anishinabe Space in Northwestern Ontario Provincially Funded Schools: The Experiences of Biwaase'aa Youth Outreach Workers

• In Event: 65.053 - Current Research in Indigenous Education in the Geographic North

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of the Biwaase’aa in-school and after-school program on Aboriginal students. This study focusses on the impact of the program, and its Youth Outreach Workers in particular, on the four major Indigenous foci of the program: (1) Spiritual Well-Being through Cultural Activities, including cultural teachings, Pow Wows, singing, and supplementary curriculum; (2) Emotional Well-Being through Structured Activities, including field trips, life-skill courses, and mentors; (3) Mental Well-Being through Academic Activities, including literacy/numeracy enhancement, and homework support; (4) Physical Well-Being through Food Security Activities, including healthy supplements, traditional teachings, cooking and sports. Based on the responses of Youth Outreach Workers, ways are considered for more effectively addressing Aboriginal educational realities.

Authors

• Julian D. Kitchen, Brock University

• Erin Hodson, Brock University

• John H. Hodson, Lakehead University