Indigenous Canada from Coursera

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Syllabus

Worldview

In this introductory module, students learn the significance of stories and storytelling in Indigenous societies. We explore history that comes from Indigenous worldviews, this includes worldviews from the Inuit, Nehiyawak, Kanien:keha’ka and Tlingit peoples.

Fur Trade

This module discusses pre-contact trading systems between Indigenous peoples of North America with a focus on the geographical region of Canada. We examine the chronological events of contact with Europeans and the events leading up to, and during the fur trade. This module also explores the long lasting social, political and economic ramifications of the fur trade on Indigenous peoples.

Trick or Treaty

Examines Indigenous and settler perspectives of treaty making. Discusses the variation of treaties in Canada and the unique circumstances surrounding these events. Outlines the temporal and geographical history of the numbered treaties (beginning on the east) and ends with a discussion of the historical events and policies leading up to Métis scrip.

New Rules, New Game

This lesson begins with a discussion about what is distinctive in Indigenous legal traditions. Explores impacts of policies put in place as British North America attempted to solidify itself geographically and socially. Examines the ways in which the Indian Act contributed to assimilation.

“Killing the Indian in the Child”

Outlines characteristics of teaching and learning in Indigenous communities, and discusses how relationships were critical in teaching and learning. Traces the development and implementation of the Residential school system in the period after Confederation. Discusses intergenerational impact of Residential school system and the creation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

A Modern Indian?

This lesson examines the burgeoning resistance of Indigenous leaders and the formation of Indigenous-led organizations as the Canadian government employed strategies to encourage assimilation of Aboriginal peoples and communities into mainstream society, specifically relating to urbanization.

Red Power

In this lesson students will learn about key characteristics of a few different Indigenous political structures and the impacts of colonialism on these structures (e.g. Indian Act, Red Power/AIM, White Paper, Red Paper -Citizens Plus) Concepts explored include self-government, self-determination, and Indigenous resurgence.

Sovereign Lands

Utilizing contemporary and traditional examples, this lesson connects Indigenous worldviews and traditional ecological knowledge. As well, this lesson traces the historical impacts of settlement. Discusses key concepts of case law associated with Aboriginal title, rights to land and resources. List the on-going threats to Indigenous lands and how these threats and challenges are being addressed.

Indigenous Women, Girls, and Genderful People

Exploring Indigenous concepts of gender, and the traditional roles and responsibilities, this lesson then moves into an examination of how colonization can be characterized as a gendered project. Identifies some concrete examples of the impact of colonialism on Indigenous women.

Indigenous in the City

Looking critically at the statement: “Cities are the place where Aboriginal culture goes to die”, this lesson explores sites of urban Aboriginal agency/active participation, urban Aboriginal governance practices, and urban reserves.

Current Social Movements

What is an Indigenous concept of community? How do Indigenous people form communities traditionally and today? This module will explain how social and environmental activism can mobilize and create communities. This module identifies key moments such as the Oka Crisis, Idle No More and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls are grassroots resistance movements.

‘Living’ Traditions – Expressions in Pop Culture and Art

Finally, we will explore how geographical location, trading networks and partnerships have influenced Indigenous art in the past. As well, we will examine contemporary iterations of Indigenous art and explore some of the artistic responses of Indigenous artists, musicians, and writers to the impacts of colonialism.

Good to know

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, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Covers core history of Canada and its Indigenous peoples, offering a comprehensive foundation

Provides an Indigenous perspective on historical and contemporary issues faced by Indigenous peoples in Canada

Offers a critical examination of national and local Indigenous-settler relations

Covers contemporary issues such as Indigenous art, activism, and the rights of Indigenous women

Led by Dr. Paul L. Gareau, an expert in Indigenous Studies

May require additional resources to fully explore the presented topics

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 Indigenous Canada with these activities:

Review Canadian History

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This course explores the interrelationships between Indigenous communities and settler societies in Canada. Having a firm grasp of Canadian history will thus provide crucial backstory and context for the course material.

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Review notes, textbooks, or online resources on Canadian history.
Read historical articles or watch documentaries about key events in Canadian history.
Discuss Canadian history with friends, family, or classmates.

Review indigenous worldview

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Refresh your memory on indigenous worldviews to be adequately prepared for the upcoming classes.

Browse courses on Worldviews

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Read the course syllabus and skim the first module.
Review your notes from previous courses or textbooks on indigenous studies.

Review key concepts from Indigenous history and current affairs

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Reviewing foundational knowledge will help solidify your understanding of the complex topics covered in this course.

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Read articles and blog posts about current events involving Indigenous communities.
Watch documentaries that explore Indigenous history and culture.
Visit websites of Indigenous organizations and read their mission statements and policy positions.

Seven other activities

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Practice answering multiple-choice questions on Indigenous history and law

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Practice drills will help you develop proficiency in applying your knowledge and improve your exam performance.

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Find practice questions online or in textbooks.
Time yourself as you answer the questions.
Review your answers and identify areas where you need improvement.

Read 'The Inconvenient Indian' by Thomas King

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This book provides a thought-provoking and insightful perspective on the history and experiences of Indigenous peoples in Canada.

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Read each chapter of the book and take notes on the main ideas and arguments presented.
Identify key concepts and themes that resonate with you and discuss them with classmates or a study group.

Participate in a discussion group with classmates

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Engaging in discussions with peers will allow you to exchange perspectives and deepen your understanding of the course material.

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Prepare for discussions by reading the assigned materials and formulating your own thoughts.
Attend discussion sessions and actively participate by sharing your ideas and listening to others.
Ask questions, challenge ideas, and support your arguments with evidence.

Create a timeline of significant events in Indigenous history in Canada

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Creating a timeline will help you visualize and understand the chronological sequence of events shaping Indigenous-settler relations.

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Research and gather information about key events in Indigenous history.
Organize the events chronologically on a timeline.
Include brief descriptions or summaries of each event.
Share your timeline with others for feedback and discussion.

Attend a workshop or conference on Indigenous issues

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Workshops and conferences provide opportunities to learn from experts, network with professionals, and gain insights into current trends in Indigenous affairs.

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Research upcoming workshops and conferences related to Indigenous issues.
Register for and attend the events.
Actively participate in the sessions and discussions.
Connect with other attendees and speakers to expand your knowledge and network.

Volunteer at an Indigenous community organization

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Volunteering will provide you with hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing Indigenous communities.

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Research Indigenous community organizations in your area.
Contact the organizations and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Attend volunteer training and orientation sessions.
Participate in volunteer activities that align with your interests and skills.

Create a presentation on a historical or contemporary issue facing Indigenous communities

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Creating a presentation will help you synthesize your knowledge, develop communication skills, and engage with the course material in a meaningful way.

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Research and select a topic that interests you.
Develop an outline for your presentation.
Create slides that effectively convey your message.
Rehearse your presentation.
Deliver your presentation to the class or a wider audience.

Career center

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

Professor

Professors teach and conduct research at universities. This course may be useful for a Professor who teaches Indigenous studies or a related field. The course provides a solid foundation in the history, culture, and contemporary experiences of Indigenous peoples in Canada, essential for teaching and conducting research in this area.

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Teacher

Teachers educate students at schools and other educational institutions. This course may be useful for a Teacher who teaches Indigenous studies or a related subject. The course provides a solid foundation in the history, culture, and contemporary experiences of Indigenous peoples in Canada, essential for teaching this subject effectively.

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Researcher

Researchers conduct research in various fields. This course may be useful for a Researcher who studies Indigenous history, culture, or contemporary issues. The course provides a strong foundation in the history, culture, and contemporary experiences of Indigenous peoples in Canada, which is essential for conducting meaningful research in these areas.

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Youth Worker

Youth Workers support and guide young people. This course may be useful for a Youth Worker who works in an Indigenous community. The course provides an understanding of the history, culture, and contemporary experiences of Indigenous peoples in Canada, which is essential for providing culturally appropriate support to young people.

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Policy Analyst

Policy Analysts research and analyze public policies. This course may be useful for a Policy Analyst who works on issues related to Indigenous peoples. The course provides a deep understanding of the history, culture, and contemporary experiences of Indigenous peoples in Canada, which is essential for developing effective policies.

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Lawyer

Lawyers advise and represent clients in legal matters. This course may be useful for a Lawyer who specializes in Indigenous law or human rights law. The course can provide a solid understanding of the legal systems and rights of Indigenous peoples in Canada, valuable knowledge for a Lawyer working in these areas.

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Public Historian

Public Historians use history to engage the public. This course may be useful for a Public Historian who works with Indigenous communities or specializes in Indigenous history. The course will provide knowledge of the history, culture, and contemporary experiences of Indigenous peoples in Canada, which is essential for creating engaging and informative public history projects.

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Program Manager

Program Managers plan and manage social programs. This course may be useful for a Program Manager who works with Indigenous communities. The course can provide a comprehensive understanding of the history, culture, and contemporary experiences of Indigenous peoples in Canada, which is vital for designing and implementing effective programs.

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Social Worker

Social Workers help people overcome social and economic challenges. This course may be useful for a Social Worker who works with Indigenous communities. The course can provide a comprehensive understanding of the history, culture, and contemporary experiences of Indigenous peoples in Canada, which is essential for providing effective social services.

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Writer

Writers create written content for various purposes. This course may be useful for a Writer who specializes in Indigenous issues or culture. The course will provide knowledge of the history, culture, and contemporary experiences of Indigenous peoples in Canada, which is essential for writing authentic and engaging content.

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Museum curator

Museum Curators plan and manage exhibitions and collections. This course may be useful for a Museum Curator who specializes in Indigenous art or history. The course will provide knowledge of the history, culture, and contemporary experiences of Indigenous peoples in Canada, and the significance of Indigenous art and artifacts.

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Cultural Anthropologist

Cultural Anthropologists study human societies and cultures. This course may be useful for a Cultural Anthropologist who specializes in Indigenous studies. The course will offer insights into the history, culture, and contemporary experiences of Indigenous peoples in Canada, helping build a foundation for understanding their societies and cultures.

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Librarian

Librarians help people find and access information. This course may be useful for a Librarian who works in an Indigenous community or specializes in Indigenous studies. The course provides an understanding of the history, culture, and contemporary experiences of Indigenous peoples in Canada, helping the Librarian better serve the information needs of these communities.

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Historian

Historians research, analyze, and interpret the past. This course may be useful for a Historian who specializes in Indigenous history. The course can help build a foundation for understanding the complex history and contemporary experiences of Indigenous peoples in Canada.

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Archivist

Archivists organize, preserve, and catalog historic and culturally significant documents and artifacts. This course may be useful for an Archivist who specializes in Indigenous history and culture. The course can help build a foundation for understanding the history and contemporary experiences of Indigenous peoples in Canada.

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Indigenous Canada

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