Understanding Aboriginal Perspectives and Experiences

Curriculum guideline

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Course
CFCS 2432
Discontinued
No
Course code
CFCS 2432
Descriptive
Understanding Aboriginal Perspectives and Experiences
Department
Child and Youth Care
Faculty
Applied Community Studies
Credits
3.00
Start date
End term
202220
PLAR
Yes
Semester length
Flexible Delivery ranging from 2 to 15 weeks
Max class size
30
Contact hours
60 hours: Lecture
Method(s) of instruction
Lecture
Learning activities
  • Lecture
  • Discussion
  • Guest Speakers
  • Collaborative Learning
Course description
This course will prepare students to work with Aboriginal peoples as clients in a respectful way through
an understanding of relevant historical events, the intergenerational grief and trauma that
affects families and communities today as well as the resilience of the people. Local Indigenous values,
rich cultural traditions, ways and medicines will also be explored.
Course content

The following global ideas guide the design and delivery of this course:

  • The legacy of colonial policies, legislation and assimilation continues to impact Aboriginal children, youth, families and communities today.
  • Intergenerational grief and loss contribute to the current state of wellness in people and communities.
  • The knowledge of history, colonization and legislation empowers practitioners to work respectfully and effectively with Aboriginal children, youth, families and communities who are involved with Aboriginal and mainstream systems.
  • We must have an understanding of others’ perspectives, knowledge and experiences in order to work in a respectful way with them.
Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  1. Articulate understanding of the history of some of the diverse first peoples of BC as well as the intergenerational impact of colonization on those communities, including the Indian residential school system and the criminalization of the Potlatch and other traditional ceremonies.
  2. Discuss, at an introductory level, past and current legislation that impacts Aboriginal children, youth and families including the Indian Act, the Child, Family and Community Services Act and the current transformation of services.
  3. Describe different spiritual practices and medicines used for healing and wellness by some of the Indigenous peoples of Canada.
  4. Discuss some understanding of the current social issues that effect Aboriginal peoples in Canada, the existing intergenerational grief and trauma, as well as the resilience of the people.
  5. Articulate different ways of showing respect to and creating a welcoming space for First Nations, Métis and Inuit clients.
  6. Give examples of unintentional, subtle racism and an understanding of its impact.
Means of assessment

This course will conform to Douglas College policy regarding the number and weighting of evaluations.  Typical means of evaluation could include a combination of:

  • esearch essays and reports
  • Individual and group presentations
  • Examinations or quizzes
  • Class contribution
Textbook materials

TBA

Prerequisites

Enrollment in a CFCS program or coordinator approval.