Land-based learning allows students to learn about Indigenous Worldview as it relates to making connections between human and natural systems. This environmentally focused approach enables students to deepen their understanding and appreciation of the history of land and Indigenous culture through hands-on activities that allow for the passing of knowledge from one generation to the next.
At Timiskaming District Secondary School and Timmins High and Vocational School, students in in Grade 9 geography classes participated in a Land-based Experiential Learning Project. The hands-on, land-based activities were supported by Knowledge Keeps, Elders and local Indigenous community partners.
Additionally, students who self-identify as Indigenous, in Grade 9 to Grade 12 from across DSB1 had the opportunity to apply to take part in an Indigenous Leadership trip to Onakawana. Camp Onakawana is located on the Abitibi River in the James Bay Lowlands and is accessible by train. All fifteen attending students participated in land based learning and cultural teachings and had the opportunity to meet other students from across DSB1.
We look forward to further partnerships with the Onakawana Education Fund!