Reconciliation Through Indigenous Education from edX

This course will help you envision how Indigenous histories, perspectives, worldviews, and approaches to learning can be made part of the work we do in classrooms, organizations, communities, and our everyday experiences in ways that are thoughtful and respectful. In this course, reconciliation emphasizes changing institutional structures, practices, and policies, as well as personal and professional ideologies to create environments that are committed to strengthening our relationships with Indigenous peoples.

For educators, this means responding to educational reforms that prioritize improved educational outcomes for Indigenous learners. In addition, educators must support all learners to develop their knowledge and understanding of Indigenous people's worldviews and cultures as a basis for creating equitable and inclusive learning spaces. To support these goals, teachers, administrators, young people, school staff, and researchers will learn from Indigenous Elders, educational leaders, and culturally relevant learning resources as part of their experiences in this course.

For others who want to build their own competence and the capacity of those around them to engage with in relationships with Indigenous peoples based on intercultural understanding, empathy, and respect, this course will help get you get started in this process.

This course is regularly updated and may change. If you're signing up now, revisit this page for the latest details a few weeks ahead of the start date. While this is an instructor-paced course, this course will not be moderated by an instructor or TA.

The verified certificate is 50USD.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Explore personal and professional histories and assumptions in relationship to indigenous peoples histories and worldviews
Deepen understanding and knowledge of colonial histories and current realities of indigenous people
Engage with indigenous worldviews and perspectives that contextualize and support your understanding of the theories and practices of indigenous education

Develop strategies that contribute to the enhancement of indigenous-settler relations in schools, organizations, and communities
Explore indigenous worldviews and learning approaches for their application to the classroom or community learning setting
Engage in personal and professional discussions in an online environment with others committed to understanding and advancing reconciliation

Explore personal and professional histories and assumptions in relationship to indigenous peoples histories and worldviews
Deepen understanding and knowledge of colonial histories and current realities of indigenous people
Engage with indigenous worldviews and perspectives that contextualize and support your understanding of the theories and practices of indigenous education
Develop strategies that contribute to the enhancement of indigenous-settler relations in schools, organizations, and communities
Explore indigenous worldviews and learning approaches for their application to the classroom or community learning setting
Engage in personal and professional discussions in an online environment with others committed to understanding and advancing reconciliation

Syllabus

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Aids in responding to educational reforms that prioritize improved educational outcomes for Indigenous learners, which is a pressing need in many educational institutions

Explores personal and professional histories and assumptions in relationship to Indigenous peoples histories and worldviews, which is a crucial step in fostering reconciliation

Examines colonial histories and current realities of Indigenous people, which is essential for understanding the context of Indigenous education

Requires learners to revisit the course page for the latest details a few weeks ahead of the start date, which may be inconvenient for some learners

Features learning from Indigenous Elders and educational leaders, which provides valuable insights and perspectives

Focuses on changing institutional structures, practices, and policies, which is a comprehensive approach to reconciliation

Reviews summary

Understanding reconciliation through education

According to learners, this course offers a deeply important and necessary exploration of reconciliation through an educational lens. Students say it provides valuable historical context and introduces Indigenous perspectives and worldviews. While the material can be emotionally challenging, many find it eye-opening and crucial for both personal and professional growth. A common point noted is the lack of instructor or TA moderation, which means learners navigate the material and discussions independently.

Content can be difficult but necessary

"Be prepared for some emotionally heavy and challenging topics."

"Navigating the history was difficult at times, but crucial learning."

"The material requires significant reflection and processing."

"It was hard to hear some truths, but discomfort leads to growth."

Provides valuable historical and contextual info

"The course covered a lot of ground, from history to worldviews."

"I appreciated the historical background provided in the early weeks."

"Learning about Indigenous worldviews was a key takeaway for me."

"The structure helped build my understanding step by step."

Important and necessary learning experience

"This course was incredibly important and provided much-needed context..."

"Essential knowledge for anyone seeking to understand reconciliation."

"I found this material eye-opening and critical for my understanding."

"This course is vital learning for fostering respectful relations."

Course lacks instructor moderation/support

"The description stated no moderation, and that was indeed the case..."

"Wish there was an instructor or TA available for clarification."

"Felt a bit isolated without moderated discussions or support."

"The forums were less active due to the lack of expert guidance."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Reconciliation Through Indigenous Education with these activities:

Read '21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act'

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Gain a foundational understanding of the Indian Act to better understand the historical context of Indigenous education.

View 21 Things You May Not Know about the Indian Act on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of the book.
Read the book, taking notes on key concepts.
Reflect on how the Indian Act has impacted Indigenous education.

Review Canadian History

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Refresh your knowledge of Canadian history, focusing on the history of Indigenous-settler relations, to provide a solid foundation for understanding the course material.

Browse courses on Indigenous-Settler Relations

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Review Canadian history textbooks or online resources.
Focus on the history of Indigenous peoples in Canada.
Take notes on key events and figures.

Journaling: Personal Reflections

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Explore your personal biases and assumptions related to Indigenous peoples through reflective journaling.

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Dedicate time each week to journal.
Reflect on your own experiences and beliefs.
Consider how your biases might impact your interactions.

Four other activities

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Discuss Course Concepts

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Engage in discussions with peers to deepen your understanding of course concepts and share perspectives.

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Form a study group with other students.
Schedule regular meeting times.
Discuss course readings and assignments.
Share your personal reflections and insights.

Read 'Indigenous Writes: A Guide to First Nations, Métis, & Inuit Issues in Canada'

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Expand your understanding of contemporary Indigenous issues in Canada.

View Indigenous Writes on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of the book.
Read the book, taking notes on key concepts and arguments.
Reflect on how the information in the book relates to the course material.

Develop a Reconciliation Action Plan

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Apply your learning by developing a personal or professional reconciliation action plan.

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Identify specific actions you can take.
Set realistic goals and timelines.
Implement your plan and track your progress.
Reflect on your experiences and make adjustments as needed.

Volunteer with an Indigenous Organization

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Gain practical experience and build relationships by volunteering with an Indigenous organization.

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Research Indigenous organizations in your area.
Contact an organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Commit to a regular volunteer schedule.
Reflect on your experiences and learn from the community.

Career center

Learners who complete Reconciliation Through Indigenous Education will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Teacher

A Teacher educates students in a variety of subjects and grade levels. This course prepares Teachers to integrate Indigenous histories, perspectives, and worldviews into their classrooms in a thoughtful and respectful manner. The course provides practical strategies for responding to educational reforms that prioritize improved educational outcomes for Indigenous learners. Teachers learn to support all learners in developing their knowledge and understanding of Indigenous people's cultures as a basis for creating equitable and inclusive learning spaces. Learning from Indigenous Elders and educational leaders, as highlighted in the course, provides teachers with authentic insights to inform their teaching practices.

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Indigenous Relations Officer

An Indigenous Relations Officer works to build and maintain positive relationships between organizations and Indigenous communities. This role requires a deep understanding of Indigenous histories, cultures, and perspectives, which this course provides. The course helps an Indigenous Relations Officer develop strategies for respectful and effective engagement with Indigenous peoples. Learning about colonial histories and current realities, as well as exploring Indigenous worldviews, builds a foundation for creating equitable and mutually beneficial partnerships. The course's focus on reconciliation and changing institutional practices aligns directly with the goals of an Indigenous Relations Officer, who strives to foster understanding and collaboration.

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Educational Administrator

An Educational Administrator manages and leads schools or educational programs. This course equips Educational Administrators with the knowledge to create inclusive and equitable learning environments for Indigenous students. By exploring colonial histories and current realities of Indigenous people, an administrator can better address systemic inequities within their institutions. Engaging with Indigenous worldviews and perspectives, as featured in the course, allows Educational Administrators to implement culturally responsive policies and practices. This ensures that all students, particularly Indigenous learners, have the opportunity to succeed. The course's focus on reconciliation helps build stronger relationships with Indigenous communities, fostering collaboration and support for educational initiatives.

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Nonprofit Program Manager

A Nonprofit Program Manager oversees the development and implementation of programs for a non-profit organization. This course helps Nonprofit Program Managers create effective and culturally sensitive programs that serve Indigenous communities. The course equips Program Managers with a deeper understanding of Indigenous histories, perspectives, and needs. By discussing colonial histories and current realities of Indigenous people, a Program Manager will learn to address systemic inequities and promote self-determination. The course enables Program Managers to develop programs that are aligned with Indigenous values and priorities. The course's focus on reconciliation guides Program managers in building strong, respectful, and collaborative relationships with Indigenous partners.

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Curriculum Developer

Curriculum Developers design and create educational materials for various subjects and grade levels. The course provides Curriculum Developers with the knowledge and understanding to incorporate Indigenous perspectives into their work. By engaging with Indigenous worldviews and learning approaches, as detailed in the course, Curriculum Developers can create more inclusive and culturally relevant curricula. The course's emphasis on reconciliation and addressing colonial histories helps Curriculum Developers ensure that Indigenous content is presented accurately and respectfully. Deepening understanding of Indigenous education supports the creation of learning resources that promote equity and understanding for all students.

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Diversity and Inclusion Manager

A Diversity and Inclusion Manager leads initiatives that promote inclusivity and equity within an organization. This role involves creating and implementing strategies to foster a welcoming environment for individuals from all backgrounds, including Indigenous peoples. The course provides valuable insights into Indigenous histories, perspectives, and worldviews, which are crucial for developing culturally sensitive and effective diversity programs. Understanding colonial histories and current realities of Indigenous people, as discussed in the course, helps a Diversity and Inclusion Manager to address systemic inequities and build stronger relationships with Indigenous communities. Moreover, the course encourages critical self-reflection and challenges assumptions, essential qualities for someone working to create inclusive spaces.

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Community Outreach Coordinator

A Community Outreach Coordinator is responsible for building relationships and engaging with diverse communities, often working for non-profit organizations or government agencies. This course helps Community Outreach Coordinators develop the cultural competence and understanding needed to effectively engage with Indigenous communities. The course's focus on reconciliation, intercultural understanding, and respectful relations provides a framework for building trust and collaboration. Learning about Indigenous histories and worldviews enables a Community Outreach Coordinator to tailor programs and initiatives to meet the specific needs of Indigenous populations. The course's emphasis on personal and professional development equips coordinators with the skills to create meaningful and lasting partnerships.

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Education Consultant

An Education Consultant advises schools and educational organizations on best practices, curriculum development, and strategies for improving student outcomes. This course equips Education Consultants with the knowledge to integrate Indigenous perspectives and pedagogies into educational programs. By exploring Indigenous worldviews and learning approaches, as featured in the course, consultants can help institutions create more culturally relevant and inclusive learning environments. The course's emphasis on reconciliation and strengthening relationships with Indigenous peoples directly supports educational reforms aimed at improving outcomes for Indigenous learners. Learning from Indigenous Elders and educational leaders, as highlighted in the course, provides consultants with authentic insights to inform their recommendations.

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Human Resources Manager

A Human Resources Manager oversees employee relations, recruitment, and training within an organization. This course helps Human Resources Managers create more inclusive and equitable workplaces for Indigenous employees. The course provides insights into Indigenous histories, perspectives, and cultural values, enabling managers to develop culturally sensitive policies and practices. The course's emphasis on reconciliation and strengthening relationships with Indigenous peoples supports efforts to attract, retain, and support Indigenous talent. Learning about colonial histories and current realities, as discussed in the course, helps Human Resources Managers address unconscious biases and promote a welcoming environment for all employees.

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Guidance Counselor

A Guidance Counselor supports students' academic, personal, and social development. This course can help Guidance Counselors better understand the unique challenges and strengths of Indigenous students, allowing them to provide more culturally sensitive support. The course's focus on Indigenous histories, perspectives, and worldviews equips counselors with the knowledge to advocate for Indigenous students' needs and promote their well-being. By addressing colonial histories and current realities, as discussed in the course, Guidance Counselors can help create a more equitable and inclusive school environment. The course may help Guidance Counselors build trust with Indigenous students and families, fostering a supportive and collaborative relationship.

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Public Policy Analyst

A Public Policy Analyst researches and analyzes social issues to inform policy decisions and recommendations. This course helps Public Policy Analysts understand the historical and contemporary issues facing Indigenous peoples, enabling them to develop more effective and equitable policies. The course's exploration of colonial histories and current realities provides a context for addressing systemic inequities. Engaging with Indigenous worldviews and perspectives, as detailed in the course, ensures that policies are culturally relevant and respectful. The course may help Public Policy Analysts contribute to policies that promote reconciliation and improve outcomes for Indigenous communities.

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Mediator

A Mediator facilitates communication and helps resolve conflicts between parties. This course provides Mediators with the cultural competence and understanding needed to effectively mediate disputes involving Indigenous peoples. Understanding Indigenous histories, perspectives, and worldviews, as covered in the course, helps Mediators approach conflicts with sensitivity and respect. The course's emphasis on reconciliation and building respectful relationships aligns with the principles of mediation, promoting fairness and collaboration. The course's focus on respectful relations helps Mediators develop strategies for creating a safe and productive environment for dialogue and resolution.

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Librarian

A Librarian manages library resources and provides information services to patrons. This course helps Librarians develop collections and programs that reflect Indigenous histories, cultures, and perspectives. By engaging with Indigenous worldviews and learning approaches, as featured in the course, Librarians can create more inclusive and culturally relevant library spaces. The course's emphasis on reconciliation and addressing colonial histories helps Librarians ensure that Indigenous materials are presented accurately and respectfully. Deepening understanding of Indigenous education supports the creation of resources that promote equity and understanding for all library users.

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Social Worker

Social Workers provide support and assistance to individuals and families facing various challenges, often working with vulnerable populations. This course may be useful for Social Workers who work with Indigenous communities or wish to improve their cultural competence. Understanding Indigenous histories, perspectives, and the impact of colonialism, as covered in the course, helps Social Workers provide more effective and culturally sensitive support. The course's emphasis on reconciliation and building respectful relationships aligns with the ethical principles of social work, promoting equity and justice for Indigenous clients. The course may help Social Workers advocate for the needs of Indigenous communities and promote their well-being.

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Museum curator

A Museum Curator is responsible for acquiring, preserving, and exhibiting artifacts and collections in a museum. This course may be useful for Museum Curators who work with Indigenous artifacts or wish to improve their cultural competence. Understanding Indigenous histories, perspectives, and the impact of colonialism, as covered in the course, helps Museum Curators present exhibits in a respectful and accurate manner. The course's emphasis on reconciliation and building respectful relationships aligns with ethical considerations for handling Indigenous cultural heritage. The course may help Museum Curators engage with Indigenous communities in the interpretation and presentation of their own histories and cultures.

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Reconciliation Through Indigenous Education

What's inside

Learning objectives

Syllabus

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Reviews summary

Understanding reconciliation through education

Activities

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