Digital Technology Innovations in Education in Remote First Nations

Authors

  • Brian Beaton University of New Brunswick
  • Penny Carpenter Keewaytinook Okimakanak Kuhkenah Network (KO-KNET)

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37119/ojs2016.v22i1.266

Keywords:

Critical studies, education, settler colonialism, decolonization, information and communication technologies, remote First Nations

Abstract

Using a critical settler colonialism lens, we explore how digital technologies are being used for new education opportunities and First Nation control of these processes in remote First Nations. Decolonization is about traditional lands and creating the conditions necessary so Indigenous people can live sustainably in their territories (Simpson, 2014; Tuck & Yang, 2012). Remote First Nations across Canada face considerable challenges related to accessing quality adult education programs in their communities. Our study, conducted in partnership with the Keewaytinook Okimakanak Research Institute, explores how community members living in remote First Nations in Northwestern Ontario are using digital technologies for informal and formal learning experiences. We conducted an online survey in early 2014, including open-ended questions to ensure the community members’ voices were heard. The critical analysis relates the findings to the ongoing project of decolonization, and in particular, how new educational opportunities supported by digital technology enable community members to remain in their communities if they choose to, close to their traditional lands

Author Biographies

Brian Beaton, University of New Brunswick

Brian Beatonis a doctoral candidate in the Education faculty at the University of New Brunswick. He is a researcher with the First Nations Innovation research project and a Research Associate of the Keewaytinook Okimakanak Research Institute (KORI). As the former Coordinator of KO’s Kuhkenah Network from 1994 to 2013, he developed community-owned telecommunications infrastructures and applications in remote First Nations. He positions himself as a settler researcher working closely with Indigenous peoples.

Penny Carpenter, Keewaytinook Okimakanak Kuhkenah Network (KO-KNET)

Penny Carpenter is the Director of Keewaytinook Okimakanak’s (KO) KNET Services. Working in various capacities from Business and Finance Manager, First Nation Financial Advisor, Telehealth Director at KO since it began as a tribal council in 1991, Penny worked with the different program managers to develop and successfully operate their programs serving the remote First Nations including the innovative Keewaytinook Internet High School. She has an honours degree in Business Administration from Lakehead University. She is a member of the Lac Seul First Nation, living in Sioux Lookout, Ontario. She is the recipient of the PARO Enterprising Women Award 2012 in northwestern Ontario.

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Published

2016-06-13

Issue

Vol. 22 No. 1 (2016): Spring 2016 [Indigenous Education] in education

Section

Articles

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