Technology with First Nations

First Nations Technology Council ICT Training

More of a website than an article. This blog entry is about dealing with ICT needs in First Nations' communities in British Columbia. Unlike most education in Canadian provinces, First Nations education is actually federally funded. Thus it is very difficult to comment about this type of education without delving into federal politics. Although there is a commitment from the present Liberal government, with specific assurances from Carolyn Bennett, the minister of Aboriginal and Northern Affairs, there is still a legacy problem when it comes with funding and resources.
To address some of the logistical and resource problems, the First Nations Technology Council (non-profit, federally funded) has developed a community based program that is both bespoke and designed for further self governance.
The problems with teaching technology to First Nations students are many, but here are a few that this organization tries to address with their programs.

• Resources - Most of the communities that receive this training have very limited access to technology, so all of the hardware for the programs is brought in. This may even involve satellite internet access, as some communities are still without internet.
• Skills gap - Although many of us live in a community that ubiquitous with Smart phones, Internet, and computers, not everyone is. As mentioned in the resource point, many of the communities that FNTC visit do not have these, and as such the ability to use a mouse is not known to everyone. These skills gaps in themselves are difficult, but the organization also has to deal with legacy learning difficulties
• Legacy learning problems - Many of the recipients of the ICT have had experience with Residential Schools and other difficulties with training.
• Remoteness - It is sometimes difficult for students to leave the reserve, as there is little chance to leave, and reserves are sometimes secluded. Thus learning opportunities are limited.
• Practicality - Although living in North Vancouver, I can see an advantage for IT skills. Living in the bush as a fisherman, it may not seem as relevant. FNTC helps deal with the relevance and sustainability of ICT in remote communities.