Experience scope
Categories
Social work History Social justiceSkills
indigenous studies critical thinking policy evaluation research papers interdisciplinary research social justice researchLearners in this course develop a strong understanding of Indigenous worldviews, histories, and contemporary struggles, particularly regarding power, privilege, and social justice. They can critically analyze the systemic and structural inequalities faced by Indigenous communities, assess the impact of settler colonialism, and interpret different perspectives on sovereignty, activism, and identity. Learners will be able to engage in discussions on intersectionality, structural inequity, and historical and contemporary Indigenous issues using evidence-based reasoning.
Employers working with these learners will benefit from their ability to:
- Recognize and analyze historical and present-day structures of inequality affecting Indigenous communities.
- Explain Indigenous worldviews and histories using scholarly evidence.
- Discuss power, privilege, and intersectionality in relation to Indigenous identities and experiences.
- Evaluate social justice frameworks and propose informed strategies to address inequities.
- Use interdisciplinary research methods to analyze complex social and historical issues.
Learners
Expected Outcomes:
- Learners will research and analyze historical and contemporary Indigenous issues.
- They will assess the impact of settler colonialism on Indigenous cultures and rights.
- They will explore Indigenous activism and sovereignty movements.
Deliverables:
- Research Paper – A historical analysis of a key issue in Indigenous history (e.g., land rights, education, or health policy) with evidence-based arguments.
- Policy Brief – An evaluation of a contemporary Indigenous policy challenge, with recommendations for reform.
- Multimedia Presentation – A digital or oral presentation exploring an aspect of Indigenous activism, culture, or legal struggles.
- Reflection Essay – A personal analysis of Indigenous worldviews and their interactions with settler colonialism.
Project timeline
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April 2, 2025Experience start
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April 5, 2025Project Kickoff
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April 17, 2025Research & Data Collection
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April 24, 2025Analysis & Drafting Phase
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May 8, 2025Project Showcase & Reflection
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May 10, 2025Experience end
Timeline
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April 2, 2025Experience start
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April 5, 2025Project Kickoff
Confirm Project Scope: Students meet with employer/mentor to discuss expectations, goals, and deliverables.
Topic Selection & Initial Research: Students finalize project topics and gather background information.
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April 17, 2025Research & Data Collection
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April 24, 2025Analysis & Drafting Phase
Synthesize Research: Students begin drafting their research or policy brief, integrating Indigenous worldviews and historical analysis.
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May 8, 2025Project Showcase & Reflection
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May 10, 2025Experience end
Project Examples
Requirements
- Historical Analysis: Examining the impact of settler colonial policies (e.g., Indian boarding schools, the Dawes Act) on Indigenous identity and sovereignty.
- Policy & Social Justice Review: Investigating contemporary land and water rights disputes, such as the Dakota Access Pipeline protests, and analyzing their impact on Indigenous sovereignty.
- Intersectional Identity Research: Studying the effects of intersectionality on Indigenous identities (e.g., the experiences of Indigenous women, LGBTQ+ communities, or urban Indigenous populations).
- Systemic Inequality Evaluation: Assessing disparities in Indigenous healthcare, education, or legal rights and proposing solutions.
- Indigenous Knowledge & Worldviews: Exploring Indigenous governance, environmental stewardship, and traditional knowledge as alternatives to Western frameworks.
Additional company criteria
Companies must answer the following questions to submit a match request to this experience:
Additional company criteria
Companies must answer the following questions to submit a match request to this experience: