Panel

In this session, participants will gain practical knowledge about the purpose, planning, design and implementation of locally-informed, land-based education programs that bridge Indigenous Knowledge and Western science through Etuaptmumk (Two-Eyed Seeing). Featuring panelists from 3 science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) outreach organizations – SuperNOVA at Dalhousie University, the Indigenous House of Learning at NorQuest College and Actua’s National Indigenous Youth in STEM program – the panel will highlight their implementation of a National land-based STEM learning model for high school-aged youth, focusing on unique approaches to curriculum design, program logistics, risk management, partner relations, longevity and lessons learned.

The programs centre educational priorities of local Indigenous communities to engage students through culturally-relevant and locally-informed activities while developing a sense of belonging in STEM. Students learn from invited Elders, Knowledge Keepers, facilitators and the land as they explore STEM concepts that braid personal experiences, Indigenous Ways of Knowing and Western science to build an authentic learning experience that supports cultural revitalization and resurgence. These programs are working to advance the recognition of Traditional Knowledge within western education frameworks by offering students the opportunity to earn high school credits.

SuperNOVA is a not-for-profit initiative of Dalhousie University, located in Kjipuktuk (Halifax) that provides youth across Mi’kma’ki (Atlantic Canada) with accessible STEM education, regardless of geographic location, socio-economic situation, ability, gender or lived experience.

The Indigenous House of Learning at NorQuest College annually engages youth in grades 7-12 through school workshops, camps, clubs and events in Amiskwacîwâskahikan (Edmonton) and surrounding communities.

Both organizations are proud network members of Actua. Actua is Canada’s largest STEM youth outreach organization representing over 40 university and college-based members. Each year, Actua’s growing network of member organizations engages over 375,000 young Canadians in 600 communities nationwide in transformative STEM learning experiences that build critical skills and confidence. Actua focuses on engaging underrepresented youth through specialized programs for Indigenous youth, girls and young women, at-risk youth and youth living in Northern and remote communities.