Indigenous Relations (MIR)

This course sets the framework for understanding Indigenous research methodologies in relation to Indigenous worldviews, theory and practice. Critical perspectives on the methods and approaches used in the study of Indigenous peoples are examined as well as the political, economic, cultural and social issues involved in conducting research with Indigenous communities. (lec 3) cr 3

This course critically analyzes various methodologies including qualitative, quantitative, and Indigenous approaches for relevance to the advancement of Indigenous societies. Relationships among epistemology, ideology and research methods are also examined.

This course examines how Indigenous and non-Indigenous people interact with Mother Earth (Shkagamik-Kwe). The concept of natural resources analyzed from the Anishnaabe/Indigenous understanding as well as Western paradigms. Case studies are used to examine various issues regarding natural resources, climate change, forest sustainability, management of protected areas and parks, and mining exploitation and environmental healing. An understanding of sharing will be analyzed and understood from the Medicine Wheel, Seven Grand Father and Ancestral teachings. Pre-req : MIRE 5006 and MIRE 5016.

This course examines styles of interaction at the verbal and non-verbal levels as well as analyzing forms of communication that come into play in Indigenous community development and organizational contexts. Topics include: culturally sensitive communication differences and successful interactions with people from other cultures. An understanding of community relationships will be analyzed and understood from the Medicine Wheel, Seven Grandfather and Ancestral teachings. PREREQ: MIRE 5006 and MIRE 5016. 3 cr.

This course provides an understanding of International Indigenous issues associated with the United Nations and Country policies with respect to Indigenous peoples. Topics include: an examination of Human Rights Conventions; the United Nation system; the role of NGOs (Non-Governmental Organizations); State Country reporting; and Indigenous actions toward legal, economic, political and International strategies. The strategies and politics of human rights, Indigenous rights,distinctive juridical customs, International cooperation and the role of foreign assistance programs are also analyzed. PREREQ : MIRE 5006 and MIRE 5016. (lecture 3 hrs) cr 3

This course entails a project on a special topic in Indigenous community development. A position paper is conducted with a community in consultation with a faculty supervisor. PREREQ: MIRE 5006 and MIRE 5016. cr 3

Under the guidance of a faculty supervisor the student completes a thesis based on a proposal he/she has developed. Pre-req [All CORE courses of the MIR] cr 12