Learning Opportunities

"...Increasing inter- and cross-cultural understanding and initiating shifts in thinking and in attitudes will build trust to improve relationships among all Albertans...First Nations, Métis and Inuit songs, stories, histories, languages, arts, sciences, and contributions to the rich history of Alberta need to be part of every Alberta student’s education...Every student in the province, not only First Nations, Métis and Inuit students, will learn about the diverse Indigenous peoples of this land and how First Nations, Métis and Inuit contribute to the vibrancy and fabric of Alberta and Canadian society."  The Guiding Framework for the Design and Development of Kindergarten to Grade 12 Provincial Curriculum (Programs of Study) (April 2017) 

Alberta's revised curriculum will be concept-based, in which students are challenged to "...become conceptual thinkers, who have the ability to examine factual information critically, relate new learning to prior knowledge, see patterns and connections, draw out significant understandings at the conceptual level, evaluate the truth of these understandings based on the supporting evidence, transfer understandings across time or situation, and use a conceptual understanding creatively to solve a problem." (Erickson, Lanning, & French.  2017. Concept-Based Curriculum & Instruction for the Thinking Classroom, 2nd edition, pp.24-25).  

Project-based learning is one way to engage students in deepening their understanding of Indigenous foundational knowledge, through a concept-based approach.  This interactive two-day workshop will begin by learning about the essential elements of Project Based Learning (PBL).   You will then have the opportunity to apply the key elements of PBL to plan and design your own engaging and rigorous project that will focus on one or more areas of First Nation, Metis and Inuit foundational knowledge, and includes the use of effective formative and summative assessment practices.    A First Nations, Metis and Inuit consultant will be available to provide advice, knowledge, and support as you plan your project.  You will also have multiple opportunities to receive feedback on your draft plans from participants in the workshop.  

By the end of the two days, you will have a complete First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) project that directly aligns with Alberta Education's current Programs of Study, but also deepens your understanding of Alberta Education's new curriculum.  

Target Audience

Grades 1 - 12 Teachers

Also Recommended For

Administrators and Learning Coaches - Cohorts from your school are strongly encouraged.