Indigenous Relations and Advocacy

Registration in a program is done on a course-by-course basis each term. The expected availability of courses is displayed below but may change throughout the year. Click on the arrows below to confirm upcoming course offerings and to add a course to your online shopping cart. For assistance, please use the inquiry form on this page or call 519-452-4277.

Overview

Program Description

During this fully online program, students will take a leadership role in learning about historical & contemporary Indigenous relations and issues within our communities, Canada, and globally. Through discussion and experiential learning, students will have the opportunity to practice techniques for advocating for positive change on behalf of individuals and communities. All courses are asynchronous online and offered via OntarioLearn.
Note: The last offering of INDG-1023 will be Summer 2025, so please register accordingly.

Courses

Program Requirements

Level 1
Take all of the following Mandatory Courses:
COMM-1162	Communication and Advocacy	3View More Details about COMM-1162
In this course, students will learn to establish rapport with various stakeholders, use interview strategies, and understand group dynamics. Students examine a variety of approaches to advocacy and analyze the ethical responsibilities of representation. Students practice self evaluation and team building, as well as techniques for having difficult conversations and advocating for positive change on behalf of individuals and communities. Students investigate cross cultural considerations with respect to Indigenous and culturally diverse employees. Students learn their role as a leader and advocate. This course is offered fully online though OntarioLearn.
INDG-1001	History of Indigenous/Canadian Relations	3View More Details about INDG-1001
This course takes a decolonized approach to examining Canadian history and the relationship between Indigenous peoples, settlers, and the Canadian government from first contact to the present. Focusing on Indigenous perspectives, worldviews, and experiences, it highlights early cooperation and partnerships during the fur trade, the significance of the treaty-making era, and the profound impact of British and early Canadian colonial policies on Indigenous rights, communities, and identity. The course also analyzes the lasting effects of colonization and the ongoing efforts of Indigenous peoples to heal from harm, reclaim their rights, and restore their culture in contemporary Canada. This course is offered asynchronous online, through OntarioLearn.
INDG-1018	Indigenous Studies: a Global Perspective	3View More Details about INDG-1018
This course will examine contemporary issues relevant to Indigenous peoples around the globe. The course will begin by exploring patterns and themes of Indigenous histories, including the varying impact of European colonialism and settlement. Central to this study is an analysis of land claims settlement issues, the quest for self-government, housing, education, culture, health and various environmental and social issues that Indigenous peoples are facing. The course will move to focus on the contemporary revitalization, repatriation and preservation methods employed by Indigenous peoples and governments around the world. This method of inquiry will afford the opportunity to compare the challenges and aspirations faced by diverse Indigenous communities.
INDG-1023	Bridging 2 Worlds:indigenous Peoples	3View More Details about INDG-1023
This course is intended for students who want to familiarize themselves with Indigenous worldviews. It will allow participants to learn from Indigenous people to dispel stereotypes, myths and explore the historic and contemporary representations of Indigenous peoples of Canada. Using the Medicine Wheel to incorporate Indigenous ways of knowing, we will examine the important and significance of Land, Identify, Education and Health to Indigenous people. We will identify and discuss major events in Canada that have lead to the issues facing Indigenous people today and build knowledge and skills to interact in a mutually respectful way with Indigenous peoples in our communities and workplaces. This course is offered fully online through OntarioLearn. Note: Summer 2025 will be the final offering of this course.
INDG-1019	Truth & Reconciliation	3View More Details about INDG-1019
In this course, students will gain an understanding of the historical factors that contributed to the creation of Residential Schools, including the history of colonization and the relationship between the government and Indigenous communities. Students will reflect upon and further develop their understanding of the ongoing impact of Residential Schools.
INDG-1017	Understanding & Reducing Victimization	2View More Details about INDG-1017
Indigenous Peoples are over-represented both as victims and offenders. Students explore the impact of the residential schools, effects of colonialism on traditional values and culture, as well as structural victimization. Students critically examine and assess Canada's principal approaches to addressing victimization and offending by and against Indigenous Peoples. Through discussion and experiential learning from an Indigenous perspective, students gain insight and understanding of Indigenous teachings, Indigenous worldview, culturally relevant healing, crime prevention and restorative justice.

Program Residency
Students Must Complete a Minimum of 5 credits in this program at Fanshawe College to meet the Program Residency requirement and graduate from this program