Unpacking the Curriculum
Development
Curran presented the development process of these courses at the FNAESC Conference in May of 2021. Watch the recording below!
Objectives
In these courses, learners (i.e. students and teachers) will take different perspectives to gain a deeper understanding, empathy, and mutual respect of Indigenous peoples, knowledge, and culture in the territory known as Canada. Learners will also be encouraged to demonstrate this knowledge through action in the real world.
Competencies
Philosophy of Assessment
This course is meant to be evaluated through the presentation of a portfolio. The teacher can assign multiple assignments throughout the course, and each student will choose a representative and meaningful sample to include in their portfolio. This portfolio is then shared with the teacher in an interview format.
The beauty of creating an evaluation like this is that it leaves the flexibility for teachers and students to take their learning in various directions. We describe this as a "Framework of Choice"; the opportunity to teach what is relevant or important to each individual context and yet still maintain an effective and meaningful learning experience.
Evaluation Criteria
Competency 1: Develops informed opinions through critical reflection (60%)
Analyzes several historical and current perspectives on the issue
Identifies the values and interests that influence these points of view
Establishes similarities and differences among these points of view
Considers the media treatment of the issue
Recognizes the choices made by some media in their treatment of the issue
Establishes the influence of the media on their opinion
Forms an opinion on the issue
Develops strong arguments in support of their opinion and is able to qualify them confidently
Evaluates and uses multiple, valid sources to support their opinion
Competency 2: Demonstrates a collaborative effort to create a community of acceptance (20%)
Interacts with an open mind
Exchanges and respects different points of view
Manages conflict effectively
Qualifies their opinion
Recognizes and actively acknowledges their biases frequently
Uses differences constructively to reconsider or reinforce their position
Competency 3: Takes action towards social justice in the wider community (20%)
Considers opportunities for social action
Recognizes types of action that could be taken and their potential impacts
Identifies platforms (i.e. community organizations, social media, etc.) that could provide support or benefit from their actions
Establishes (and, if possible, carries out) an action plan
The complete Program of Study is available in the Google Doc below: