Champions of change: Exploring the outcomes of the youth ICT employment and training program in Ontario First Nations communities

• Main Author: Tomkinson, Kristy
• Other Authors: Mahone, James
• Format: Thesis
• Language: English
• Published: University of Guelph 2010
• Subjects: Information and Communications Technologies for Development; Ontario; rural; remote; First Nations communities; First Nations
• Online Access: https://hdl.handle.net/10214/25323

This study examines Information and Communications Technologies (ICTs) for Development in Ontario rural and remote First Nations communities. It takes a systems approach to the nationally funded First Nations SchoolNet Youth Initiative, regionally named and delivered as the Youth ICT Employment and Training program. The research was carried out in partnership with the Kuh-Ke-Nah Network (K-Net), in Sioux Lookout, Ontario which provides social services along with broadband Internet connectivity for rural and remote First Nations communities. An exploratory, qualitative approach was used to gain perspectives of the initiative from the systems, organizational, community, and individual levels. This thesis provides insights into the unique context of rural and remote First Nations communities, and the stories and outcomes of youth who have gained employment and skills from the program. Findings include the vital role of a mediator, a supportive online community of practice, and the championing of ICTs at the local level.