Based on feedback from students and
administrators from both the survey and
interviews, the following considerations
should help future iterations of the program
achieve greater impacts and better provide
Indigenous students with the digital support
that they need:
• Market the device provision opportunities
delivered through Connected North (and
other organizations) using a robust social
media strategy and marketing campaign
that maximizes audience reach and
provides clear information and direct
access to program details and other
digital resources.
• Leverage existing infrastructure and
networks from other community
organizations and First Nation
organizations that provide upskilling
programs and scholarships to identify
and target communities in-need.
• Consider creating an online network
that connects device recipients to
one another and expands peer-to-
peer support, social connection and
community involvement.
• Consider pre-loading devices with
the necessary processing programs
compatible with most high school and
postsecondary institutions, such as
Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat.
• Equip donated devices with educational
materials that provide digital skills
training of technology programs that
are highly demanded in the workforce
as well as resources on applying to and
navigating post-secondary education
and higher learning.
Impact of Connected North's Digital Inclusion Grant on IndigenousStudents' Learning, Social Connection and Community Involvement 5
