Issue link: https://takingitglobal.uberflip.com/i/1505559
The Potential of Device Access Programming and Storytelling to Create Positive Health, Social and Technology Outcomes for Indigenous Communities Closing gaps in digital access and skills for Indigenous students requires targeted, community-based programming that empowers youth to be active users and developers of digital technology. As outlined in an upcoming report by the Brookfield Institute, a study by Bhawra et al. examines ways to effectively report climate change impacts in Indigenous communities using data collected from citizens' smartphones. 30 A program in Île-à-la-Crosse, Saskatchewan provided a Métis community with "cellular towers, cellphones, and data plans to communicate environmental changes for early detection of climate change impacts on food sovereignty and security." 31, 32 The program allows Indigenous users to transfer data collected through these devices onto a digital platform that can amalgamate this data and help communities "make timely decisions on climate change mitigation." 33 The program outlines how devices and the collection and ownership of digital data can empower Indigenous communities to make better decisions about their environment, which in turn improves communities' "climate change preparedness and adaptation." 34 Other researchers assert that prioritizing Indigenous voices, self-determination and sovereignty will orient youth in actively creating and innovating content through digital technologies. Winter and Boudreau emphasize that learning content and projects directed at Indigenous youth development should prioritize and bring to light imagery of future Indigenous life and community. 35 Building online initiatives such as video games, apps, and virtual realities that showcase future Indigenous living and work will better illuminate Indigenous values and represent Indigenous peoples as holders of advanced skills demanded in the labour market. 36 The authors highlight the concept of instilling 'makerspaces,' which are "gathering points for tools, projects, mentors, and expertise to give rural communities access to technology and practice that is otherwise unavailable and provide opportunities for youth to engage with innovation in a meaningful way." 37 38 Programs that provide digital access through devices, internet and education resources are the first building blocks to creating the digital skills needed for Indigenous youth. Providing this level of access through targeted programming can help bridge the persisting underrepresentation of Indigenous peoples in technology spaces in Canada. A 2019 report by the Brookfield Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship found that the participation rate in technology work of Indigenous peoples is half that of non- Indigenous people (2.2% compared to 5.2%) and are paid less. 39 In the face of systemic barriers that continue to stifle Indigenous innovation and self-determination, Wiebe recommends that "Indigenous-led solutions, training and employment initiatives are the most effective ways to address these barriers." 40, 41 Impact of Connected North's Digital Inclusion Grant on IndigenousStudents' Learning, Social Connection and Community Involvement 11