CLEN 1205: Understanding Indigenous Connection to the Land in Canada
Effective date
January 2025
Department
Clean Energy Technology
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
This course delves into the complex and historical relationship between Indigenous people and resource development and their connection to the land with a particular focus on the province of British Columbia. Students will explore the historical and contemporary perspective of Indigenous communities toward land and resource development, the relevant legal frameworks governing these activities, and the implications on Indigenous people. In keeping with a commitment to Reconciliation this course intends to foster an understanding of the challenges and opportunities that arise at the intersection of clean energy initiatives and the preservation of Indigenous peoples connection to the lands and their cultures, as they have been stewards of these lands since immemorial.
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Examine the historical dynamics of resource development in Canada by analyzing key events, policies and practices that have shaped the relationship between Indigenous communities and the utilization of natural resources.
- Evaluate the legal frameworks governing resource development in Canada and their specific implications for Indigenous rights and land use.
- Analyze diverse Indigenous perspectives on clean energy and resource development in BC, assessing their impact on cultural, social and economics aspects.
- Analyze sustainable and inclusive approaches to future resource development that respect the rights and interests of Indigenous communities.
- Develop critical thinking and problem solving skills to address challenges related to clean energy technology development in collaboration with Indigenous communities.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
Methods of assessment may include a challenge exam, submission of a product or portfolio for review, or a practical demonstration. Please contact the Department for details.
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 45
Total Hours: 45
Instructional Strategies
Lecture, group work, case studies, discussions, presentations, guest speakers, online activities
Grading System
Letter Grade (A-F)
Evaluation Plan
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Type
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Percentage
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Assessment activity
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Assignments
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25
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Case study - Historical Dynamic Analysis: the case study details the historical events and practices that have influenced the relationship between indigenous communities and resource development in Canada
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Assignments
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25
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Written assignment - Legal Framework Evaluation: evaluate the legal frameworks government resources development in Canada and it is impact on indigenous rights and land use
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Assignments
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30
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Final Presentation - Indigenous Perspective analysis: analyze diverse indigenous perspectives on clean energy and resources development in BC, assessing their impact on cultural, social and economic aspects.
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Participation
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20
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Classroom discussion
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Course topics
- Historical perspective on Traditional Indigenous Land Use.
- Legal Frameworks governing Indigenous land rights.
- Modern day Indigenous communities perspective on clean energy resource development.
- Sustainable Approaches to clean energy resource development.
- Future of Indigenous connection to the land and clean energy in Canada.
- Indigenous Protocols related to land use and resource development.
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/.
- To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.