summer science and technology initiative 2001/2002

Summer Science and Technology Initiative 2001/2002

Table of Contents Introduction......................................................................................................................... 3 Aatse Davie School............................................................................................................. 6 Bella Bella Community School .......................................................................................... 7 Bonaparte Indian Band ....................................................................................................... 8 Boothroyd Band.................................................................................................................. 9 Boston Bar First Nation .................................................................................................... 10 Cape Mudge Band............................................................................................................. 11 Chemainus First Nation .................................................................................................... 12 Campbell River Indian Band ............................................................................................ 13 Canim Lake Indian Band .................................................................................................. 14 Cayoose Creek Band......................................................................................................... 15 Chief Atahm School.......................................................................................................... 16 Doig River First Nation .................................................................................................... 17 Ehattesaht Tribe ................................................................................................................ 18 Esketemc First Nation ……………………………………………………………………18 Esquimalt First Nation ...................................................................................................... 20 Fort Nelson First Nation ................................................................................................... 21 Fraser Canyon Tribal Administration ............................................................................... 22 Gingolx Village Government............................................................................................ 23 Gitksan Wet’suwet’en Education Society ........................................................................ 24 Gitlakdamix Village Government..................................................................................... 25 Gitwangak Band Council.................................................................................................. 26 Gitwinksihlkw Village Government ................................................................................. 27 Gwa’sala-Nakwaxda’xw Family Services........................................................................ 28 Hagwilget Village Council ............................................................................................... 29 Homalco Indian Band ....................................................................................................... 30 Huu-ay-aht First Nation .................................................................................................... 31 Iskut Valley Health Services............................................................................................. 32 Katzie First Nation............................................................................................................ 33 Kispiox Community School.............................................................................................. 34 Kitkatla Band Council....................................................................................................... 35 Kitlope Nu-Yum Rediscovery Society ............................................................................. 36 Klahoose First Nation ....................................................................................................... 37 Kwakiutl Band Council..................................................................................................... 38 Kwakitul District Council ................................................................................................. 39 Kwikwetlem First Nation.................................................................................................. 40 Kyah Wiget Education Society......................................................................................... 41 Laxgalt’sap Village Government...................................................................................... 42 Lillooet Tribal Council ..................................................................................................... 43 Lower Kootenay Band Education Society........................................................................ 44 Lower Similkameen Indian Band ..................................................................................... 45 Metlakatla Band Council .................................................................................................. 46 Mowachaht/Mulchalat First Nations................................................................................. 47

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Muskoti Learning Centre .................................................................................................. 48 Namgis Health Centre....................................................................................................... 49 Nuchatlaht Tribe ............................................................................................................... 50 Nus Wadeezulth Community School................................................................................ 51 Osoyoos Indian Band........................................................................................................ 52 Pacheedaht First Nation .................................................................................................... 53 Penticton Indian Band....................................................................................................... 54 Prophet River Band........................................................................................................... 55 Qualicum First Nation....................................................................................................... 56 Saikuz First Nation ........................................................................................................... 57 Seabird Island Band .......................................................................................................... 58 Seton Lake Indian Band.................................................................................................... 59 Shxw’ō whámel First Nation ............................................................................................ 60 Siska Indian Band ............................................................................................................. 61 Skeetchestn Indian Band................................................................................................... 62 Skwah First Nation ........................................................................................................... 63 Skowkale First Nation....................................................................................................... 64 Songhees First Nation ....................................................................................................... 65 Spuzzum First Nation ....................................................................................................... 66 St. Mary’s Band Administration ....................................................................................... 67 Sumas First Nation............................................................................................................ 68 Tl’azt’en Nation ................................................................................................................ 69 Toquaht Nation ................................................................................................................. 70 Tsawataineuk First Nations............................................................................................... 71 Tseycum First Nation........................................................................................................ 72 Ucluelet First Nation......................................................................................................... 73 Upper Similkameen Indian Band...................................................................................... 74 Westbank First Nation ...................................................................................................... 75 Xit’olacw School .............................................................................................................. 76 Yekooche First Nation ...................................................................................................... 77

Appendix A………………………………..Summer Science and Technology Camp Chart Appendix B………………………Summer Science and Technology Camp Photo Gallery

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Introduction

The 2001/2002 Summer and Science Technology Initiative provided many opportunities for more than nineteen First Nations children and youth to discover the wonders of science and technology through hands-on learning, experimenting and exploring locally designed and controlled programming. The final report of the Summer and Technology Camp Initiative is a collection and condensed version of the final reports submitted from the seventy-one First Nations communities and organizations who were funded through this program in the 2001/2002 fiscal year. Each science camp was designed and operated by First Nations communities for First Nations children and youth, and as in previous years, participating communities chose a wide variety of innovative paths to arrive at achieving their program goals and objectives. Programs promoted science and technology as a career choice for First Nations youth by supporting summer camps, which provided First Nations youth with first-hand experience in various science disciplines. The program objectives are:

To promote, amongst school-aged children, an interest in science and technology in the hopes of encouraging them to pursue sciences in school; and

To promote an understanding of traditional sciences and an interest in First

Nations traditional technology. Funding for this youth program has been provided annually by the Department of Indian and Northern Affairs Canada since 1996, and the program was administered jointly by the First Nations Schools Association and the First Nations Education Steering Committee. Traditional Sciences and Technologies Man y of the science camps were designed to help the children and youth explore traditional knowledge and to encourage the transmission of information between Elders and the younger generation. The children and youth who participated in those camps learned about such things as adding to their existing knowledge of science and technology within their own cultural and geographic context through ethnobotany, traditional use of plants and animals and language and spiritual aspects. The participants learned how their ancestors used resources in a sustainable way to make their lives more comfortable. One camp focused on western and traditional scientists to open young peoples’ (eyes) to the wonders of the world around them. Camp guests demonstrated the most modern technologies from genetic analysis of bugs for salmon nitrogen content to determine dispersal and the role of salmon in feeding our forests.

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Exploring Science Careers At many of the science camps, Elders, professionals, and other community members shared their knowledge and acted as strong, positive role models for the children and youth. Participants had the opportunity to listen to fisheries specialists, ecologists, foresters, archeologists, wildlife biologists, geographers, and computer technicians. For example communities held Career Fairs with many invited professionals in health and science occupations. Participants set-up science centre displaying their hands-on projects and pamphlets of other science experiments to explore. Biology, Geography, and Other Contemporary Sciences Many of the science camps excursions had the children and youth visiting a variety of different display booths, galleries, science videos, Science World, Vancouver Zoo, Libraries, Ocean Life, Rediscovery Wilderness Camp, Universities, Employment Centres, Environmental Conference, Vancouver Aquarium, Macmillan Planetarium, Forest Tours, Vallican Camp, and Fish Camps. There were nature walks, cultural performances, studying the life cycle of the salmon and collecting samples. One community provided a new concept of Kinesiology (the science of body movement and its relationship to brain function). Computer Technology Participants that participated in technology camps demonstrated an interest in computer technology and learned how to manage their program files, download programs, zip and unzip files, change display settings on their monitor screens, create a web page, and how to use a CD Writer. Skills learned in the area of technology were how to put together the insides of a computer and creating an automatic crossword puzzle. Participants explored what is science, and learned by the use of experiments and the collection and manipulation of raw data. Through multi-media training, many participants learned how to use a digital video camera. Two participants from a community gained valuable experience with editing video footage by turning them into movies and movie software. Participants mastered using a computer scanner, CD burner, digital microscope and web cam. Mad Science The foundation of many science camps was a series of hands-on workshops that were conducted by a Mad Science team. Mad Science is an independent educational contractor that traveled to many First Nations communities last summer and facilitated many science activities. The participants learned a variety of skills while assembling their projects. For example, one community had the youth working on building a robot and rocket starter kit. Building a robot entailed reading and following instructions, identifying small parts and the proper use of tools in assembling a robot. The participants

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were very excited when the facilitator launched a demo rocket. Their core activities were: building and rocket launching, pretending to be astronauts by repairing parts and experience space food, constructed robots, periscopes, slime, silly putty, telescopes and how to make dry ice and bath booms. Summary The responses from the First Nations communities to the 2001/2002 Summer Science and Technology Camp initiatives were extremely positive. Most of the participants did not know that they were actually doing science related activities until it was explained to them how it was happening. The hands-on approach was an excellent way for participants to learn, as it was a learning style that First Nations learners relate to. The Camps brought the youth, children, Elders and communities closer together to learn about science and technology. The Mad Science Program provided an interesting approach to many communities on learning about the various aspects of Science and Technology. The participants were excited with all that they had learned about rockets, robots and so much more. All of the highly educational programming of traditional and modern science and technology discovered was a true benefit for all participants. The Summer and Science Technology Camps were an inspiration to many participants and the program activities provided an opportunity for many participants to pursue interests in science, technology and education. The external trips outside of the classrooms to explore the world of science and technology has made a strong impact on the lives of the participants by showing the value of science and technology. The Summer Science and Technology Camps provided a venue for participants to gain knowledge, skills and on-hands experiences. Many of the participants had exciting projects, experiments and fun in studying science and technology. Many of these participants improved their self-esteem and self-confidence while participating in their programs. Overall, it has been a very successful year and thanks to all of the participating communities and organizations for leading such excellent, worthwhile science and technology camps this year. Special thanks to those individuals who sent us photographs and written accounts of their summer science and technology camp initiatives to help us record the past year’s achievements to share with future summer and science technology camps. In conclusion, we express our sincere appreciation to the Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development Canada for its ongoing support of this very valuable initiative.

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Aatse Davie School Fort Ware, BC

Program Activities Members of the community established a traditional fall hunting camp so that participants had the opportunity to learn about skinning, tanning and distribution of big game. There were seven ongoing camps and some of the men took groups of students out and showed them some of the finer points of “signs” and how to orient themselves by traditional means while traveling. Students prepared moose hides for tanning by traditional methods and in the butchering process. Other program activities included wild crafting and ethnobotanical research. Students photographed both plants and animals; samples were gathered and processed for inclusion in developing cultural curriculum. Participant Learned Skills The students learned how to identify the various processes and body parts in the butchering process. The Kwadacha students added to their existing knowledge of science and technology within their own cultural and geographic context through ethnobotany, traditional use of plants and animals and language/spiritual aspects. Students learned to recognize food plants and studied the lily family.

50

30

Total number of participants Total number of female participants Total number of male participants

20

Age(s) of participants 8-18

Education level of participants Grade 3-10

$5,000.00 Total funding spent on program Total contribution from DIAND

$10,000.00

Program Evaluation We are pleased with the ongoing Summer Science and Technology Camps this year. We hope to integrate all of the experiences gained by the teachers, students and staff into a local generated integrated curriculum, which will focus on Sekani culture and language.

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Bella Bella Community School Waglisla, BC

Program Activities An annual Science and Culture Camp brought together western and traditional scientists to open a young peoples’ (eyes) to the wonders of the world around them. The camp guests demonstrate the most modern technologies from genetic analysis of wolf scat and hairs to define ranges and population groups and interactions, to analysis of bugs for salmon nitrogen content to determine dispersal and the role of salmon in feeding our forests. Participant Learned Skills Participants learned how their ancestors used these resources in a sustainable way to make their lives more comfortable and passed on that knowledge through songs, dances and harvesting techniques. It was a time of sharing and learning and was grateful to all the sponsors and instructors.

24

12


12




$5,000.00

Program Evaluation This program set the tone for a summer filled with learning and wonder. All of the camps that follow utilize the elements of science and culture brought out at this opening camp. Greg Rasmusson from CBS Radio interviewed the participants at the camp for his radio show and will air “Bears” on CBC.

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Bonaparte Indian Band Cache Creek, BC

Program Activities The Summer and Science Technology initiative had the youth and community participating in a Hihium Lake camping trip. The event brought 41 youth, Elders and community members closer together to learn about language, culture and territory. The Education department was able to find resources within the community to facilitate language, culture, territory and boundaries, cultural activities, hunting and fishing as well as arrowhead and fire starting techniques. Participant Learned Skills This was a first time experience for most of the participants and they paid close attention to what they were learning. For the participants living without running water, telephones and television for a whole week was a major challenge. There was hands-on learning about ethnobotany, science, canoeing and water safety and recreation, sweat house cleansing and spiritual, hunting and fishing, history of hunting and fishing techniques, conservation of wildlife resources and a special presentation on making ancient arrowheads and fire starting techniques-archeology.

41

15


26

Age(s) of participants Varied

Education level of participants All Grade

Levels


$5,000.00

Program Evaluation Most of the participants did not know that they were actually doing science related activities until it was explained to them how it was happening. The Camp brought the youth, Elders and community closer together to learn.

8

Boothroyd Band Boston Bar, BC

Program Activities The Boothroyd Indian Band provided the participants with a trip to Science World, Planetarium and a Soil and Insect workshop. The participants viewed different display booths, galleries and watched science and nature videos. Computer activities included mine games, kids space gallery and visual illusions. The Soil and Insect workshop had the participants looking at a variety of insects, soil types and habitats. The participants viewed some of the insects through a microscope. Participant Learned Skills The participants understand a wide range of science, mathematics and physics principles. Other new skills gained were how to identify things such as animal tracks, trees, and fish species. Participant tested their skills with a variety of puzzles and computer games that challenged them by computer simulation.

26

13


13

Age(s) of participants

2-18

Education level of participants

Preschool-Grade 12

$5,588.77 Total funding spent on program

Total contribution from DIAND

$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The participants enjoyed the program activities and many of them requested a repeat of the program for next year.

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Boston Bar First Nation Boston Bar, BC

Program Activities All the participants participated in four-day Mad Science activities and learned in a non-classroom atmosphere that was fun and educational. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned about periscopes and robots. One student especially liked making different shapes with silly putty.

18

9


9


Education level of participants K5-Grade 11


$4,951.00

Program Evaluation The Summer and Science Technology Camp was a valuable learning experience for all of the participants. The Mad Science Program provided an interesting approach to learning about the various aspects of Science and Technology. The overall evaluation from the children towards the program was that it was fun and would like to participate in the program again.

10

Cape Mudge Band Quathiaski Cove, BC

Program Activities All the participants participated in Mad Science activities that provided the participants with two main projects to work on, a robot and a rocker starter kit. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned a variety of skills while assembling these projects. Building a robot entailed reading and following instructions, identifying small parts and the proper use of tools in assembling a robot. Participants had an opportunity to have fun and learn about the sciences. The activities motivated their interest and encouraged them to consider science as a future field of study.

12

5


7


Education level of participants K-Grade 6


$4,521.20

Program Evaluation The participants were very excited when the instructor launched a demo rocket as it went very high, and everyone made comments about how neat and cool the whole activities were and how they wanted to return next year. Everyone had a blast with the Mad Science Camp.

11

Chemainus First Nation Ladysmith, BC

Program Activities Participants participated in a four-week action packed program that combined technology, culture and sports. Activities included camping, rock climbing, kayaking, traditional healing, soccer, baseball, swimming, hiking, fitness and health, Coast Salish games and E-Scape Movies from Vancouver worked with the participants on all aspects of video production. Participant Learned Skills Participants learned about basic video production techniques used for documentaries and short movies, shooting techniques (zooming, panning and tilting), all aspects of lighting and how to record field video. Other learned skills were how to digitize and organize film footage, edit material, trim down sequences, add effects, create titles and credits, and supplement audio to the production.

12

4


8




$ 4,196.96

Program Evaluation Participants had a lot of fun and said it was awesome to learn about filming. The participants produced two short videos. There was also a lot of personal growth in terms of working together as a team, learning and appreciating each other’s strengths and gaining more confidence about self. A participant liked bringing in his own music and seeing how it fit to the film. A female participant was very shy in front of the camera but did an excellent job of filming.

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Campbell River Indian Band Campbell River, BC

Program Activities Participants visited a traditional secluded reserve and participated in a Salmon Enhancement Program held in Heydon Bay, BC. Participant Learned Skills Participants learned about the uses of the cedar bark, the importance of the Cedar tree and culturally modified trees. Other learned skills included origin stories of the Laichwiltach people, record and view petroglyphs, Kwiks eagles, old fishing weirs, tidal patterns, fishing times, fish fence operations and fish counts. Participants also hiked and saw a two-spike deer, dolphins, and seals while on a boat traveling back home.

24

10


14


7-18


K-Grade 10



$5,000.00

Program Evaluation Feedback from participants included that the Science and Technology Camp was enjoyable and a great learning experience. A participant said it was neat to see the cave where bears lived and visiting old mining sites. The participants also enjoyed going on hikes and observing fish counting.

13

Canim Lake Indian Band 100 Mile House, BC

Program Activities The Ethonobotany Camp was in the first week and the science portion of the camp in the second week. Participants collected plants and bark and collected pitch medicine. The participants constructed bridges using spaghetti. Small field trips were part of the camp activities. The participants had a display for their parents and showed how to identify a rock and mineral by how it looked and felt. Participant Learned Skills Participants learned the whole process from picking medicines to preparation and storage, how to construct displays, identify plants, rocks and minerals. The participants were very proud to show off what they had learned to their parents. Other learned skills were how to make medicine for coughs and colds, pitch medicine for cuts and infections, and Indian ice-cream for a blood cleanser and a treat.

20

10


10


9-16


Grade 4-11



$4,107.00

Program Evaluation The Camp went well and the participants enjoyed themselves, along with their learning. The participants responded well to the short walks and benefited from the outings.

14

Cayoose Creek Band Lillooet, BC

Program Activities The Mad Science of Vancouver Island/BC Interior provided a science program consisting of biology, sports-advantage mad science, space, code red planet, earth and earth stalkers. Each of the topics had some unique and enjoyable take home activities. The participants built rockets, robots and radios, they even made different planes out of paper, and telescopes out of pop cans. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned about science and building rockets, robots and radios and had the opportunity to learn much more through the take home activities.

24

11


13


6-12


Grade 1-6



$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The participants of the Cayoose Creek Summer and Science Technology Camp really enjoyed the Mad Science activities this year. The leaders were very respectful and they had a lot of patience with the amount of participants at the camp. The program this year was a lot more fun as we had two leaders instead of one leader. The timing was very adequate for the program and had enough time to complete all program activities.

15

Chief Atahm School Chase, BC

Program Activities The computer technology camp was on digital cameras, parts of a camera and the video taping process. Participants set up cameras and developed ideas for a 3-minute movie. A visiting producer/mentor assisted participants during videotaping and helped them analyze their footage. There was a review of digital camera techniques, in-depth interface and iMovie software. The instructor demonstrated input of digital footage and provided hands-on loading of video clips onto computers. The participants also had a field trip to Kamloops Wildlife Park that included aquatic pond studies, salmon habitat, and a guided animal tour. Participant Learned Skills Participants that participated in the technology camps demonstrated an interest in computer technology and most had basic knowledge of computers. Participants learned how use tripods and about lighting/composition. They also learned the trim functions and arranging video clips. The participants at the Kamloops Wildlife Park gained an understanding of water aquatics, fish habitat and general identification of animal species.

20

13


7


3-18


K-12



$5,000.00

Program Evaluation Many of the participants felt comfortable working as a team on their projects. One participant produced a “Teen Fashion” video; another group filmed a sports car with music that depicted the reserve life from a teen’s perspective with rap music. Overall, the participants thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

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Doig River First Nation Rose Prairie, BC

Program Activities The Doig River First Nation invited the Mad Science of Vancouver Island/BC Interior for a Mad Science Kid’s Day Camp. Participants had fun with science experiments, building a cool robot and rocket. Participant Learned Skills Participants learned how to make a robot and rocket, the make-up of rockets and relevant information about them. Participants learned about animals through analyzing their footprints.

25

12


13


5-15


K-Grade 9



$7,500.00

Program Evaluation The participants learned about science and technology through participating in the Mad Science activities. All the participants want the Mad Science team to come back next year

17

Ehattesaht Tribe Zeballos, BC

Program Activities The Mad Science of Vancouver Island/BC Interior activities included participants building and launching rockets, pretending to be astronauts by repairing parts and experience space food. Participants also dissected owl pellets, proved what owls eat during their days of scouring for food. Participant Learned Skills Participants learned about the three stages of rocket flight and first-hand experience on how that affected their own unit. All participants achieved additional building skills and learned how to assemble their own rockets and robots.

22

11


11


5-14


K-Grade 8



$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The Science Camp was a very successful event and participants look forward to learning more about new science in the future, especially through science camp initiatives. Many of the camp activities motivated participants to enjoy science by experimenting a lot more in school.

18

Esketemc First Nation Williams Lake, BC

Program Activities Participants of the Summer Science Camp rode horses to a camp for the very first time. The camp consisted of various day trips over a two-week period to carry out different activities in the territory. Those trips consisted of visiting salmon fishing sites, meeting and watching a gold miner, identifying medicinal plants and taking part in a tradition ceremony and traveling with Elders to berry picking sites. Participant Learned Skills Canoe safety was taught to participants, as well as how to build a sweat and explore the forest with the Elders. Participants learned about fishing for sockeye salmon and preparing it for drying. Other activities included learning about petroglyphs, Elder’s stories about the ancestors’ ways of living in pit houses, gold panning, berry picking sites, medicine and traditional ceremonies.

16

10


6


8-18


Grade 1-12



$5,000.00

Program Evaluation This was the first year of offering summer camps for the youth, there were some very ambitious plans to ensure that every school-aged child was totally occupied for the summer holidays, but quickly learned that logistics and weather could affect those plans. The children learned while having fun and felt that the camp was very successful.

19

Esquimalt First Nation Victoria, BC

Program Activities The Equimalt First Nation program was as follows: Day 1 Computer Technology Day 2 Traditional Cooking Day 3 Reiki Day 4 Elders Luncheon Day 5 Day trip to Halalt Nation Participant Learned Skills Participants learned how to manage their program files, download programs, zip and unzip files, change display settings on their monitor screens, create a web page, and how to use a CD Writer. Participants also learned why a computer would freeze up (from clicking the mouse too many times and from having too many windows open). Some participants learned how to cut up, clean and cook a fish. They also learned how to make clam chowder, clam patties, fry oysters and bannock. Participants learned about the healing benefits of Reiki and learned that other cultural practices could benefit them if they open their minds and hearts to the experience.

12

6


6


10-17


Grade 5-10



$4,196.96

Program Evaluation The camp was very successful with most of the participants from the community participating in the activities. Participants challenged their instructor because of their Internet knowledge. Participants were all in good spirits while cooking and really enjoyed the fruits of their labor.

20

Fort Nelson First Nation Fort Nelson, BC

Program Activities Participant’s interest were motivated in science within a traditional cultural setting. Integral to all of the activities were careers associated with each of the activities for example, studying animals = conservation officer and studying forests = silviculture. Participants used their senses to investigate diverse characteristics of a variety of local plants and animals. Participants observed rocks, soil and water, studied the properties of air and its role in observable weather patterns, the importance of water to life in the natural environment, and the human impact on the environment. Participant Learned Skills Participants identified plants, animals and species. Other activities consisted of learning about edible and medicinal plants, preserving the environment through cultural and traditional methods, and how to appreciate the air, water and land qualities. Participants cooperated, listened, used critically thinking skills and learned how to be a team player.

19

10


9


10-19


Grade 4-12



$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The Summer and Science Technology Camp initiative contributed to have the community of the Fort Nelson First Nation be a strong, healthy, proud, and self-reliant community members. The camp taught the youth about the exciting opportunities within the environment and learned about culture and how families and everyone needs to contribute to saving the environment.

21

Fraser Canyon Tribal Administration Lytton, BC

Program Activities The Nicomen, Kanaka Bar, and Skuppah Indian Band combined their efforts to offer a Mad Science Summer Camp. The activities included rocket building, with a full launch kit for all participants and/or robot building. Participants also made all kinds of rubber items such as a ball, animal statutes from clay, dried them and painted the animals. Participant Learned Skills The program itself was a good learning experience for all the participants and the parents. They all learned how to make a rocket, build a robot and made all kinds of rubber items. Near the end of the week, the participants learned how to launch the rocket. They also learned that along with patience they needed to be consistent with their task in order to finish their projects. They learned that working hard is good and that rewards at the end were priceless.

53

26


27




$13,390.00

Program Evaluation The Mad Science Camp turned out to be a good learning experience for the participants. At the time, we contracted mad Science to come in it was beneficial financially to combine Nicomen, Kanaka and Skuppah together. When the enrolment for the Mad Science was over 25, the rates were considerably lower. The participants appeared to be happy in everything they were learning. All feedback was positive.

22

Gingolx Village Government New Aiyansh, BC

Program Activities The program theme for the Gingolx Village Government Summer Science and Technology Camp was “Linkages-Gingolx & Gitaxdamiks” linking traditional ecological knowledge to science and technology. This camp differed in that the billeted Gingolx youth received supervised recreation activities that included formal components of science and technology. Participants had icebreaker exercises, a trip to a volcano, funky science games, and computer time. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned about communication, networking and trust exercises. Other learned skills included careers and salary in the science and technology field. Computer hardware and biology, science, Nisga’a agriculture, how to use reference science books, experiments, volcano tour, ecosystems and organic eggs were knowledge gained by the participants.

8

4


4




$5,000.00

Program Evaluation There were three evaluations completed by the participants and two camp reports done by the youth leaders. The camp ran as scheduled and additional unanticipated benefits occurred in the evening recreation program. All the participants had a great time with learning about communication, sports, volcanoes and experiments.

23

Gitksan Wet’suwet’en Education Society Hazelton, BC

Program Activities A Youth Survival Camp introduced traditional technologies and customs. Some of the activities included outdoor physical recreation, fishing, exploration of an old village site and learning about traditional medicines. Participant Learned Skills The 20 participants learned many new and exciting skills in regards to science and technology. They learned about medicinal and traditional medicines, plant uses, traditional hunting and fishing technology and ways to survive in the wilderness. Camp participants helped construct a traditional sweat lodge and were instructed on the proper preparation of the “smudge’ ceremony and the part nature plays in these ceremonies (use of trees, cedar, sage, fire and water etc).

20

10


10



$5,000.00+ Total funding spent on program Total contribution from DIAND

$4,196.96

Program Evaluation There were successful enrolments for both of the camps. At the completion of each session, participants completed a questionnaire on the camp. These questionnaires provided suggestions on improvements for the activities and camp counselors.

24

Gitlakdamix Village Government New Aiyansh, BC

Program Activities The program theme focused on traditional ecological knowledge to science and technology. Participants had applications of mathematics and technology, calculating heights using trigonometry and computers, statistics, heights and finger lengths. Traditional food calendars included foods of the seasons and traditional food groups. Astronomy and sun movements included telling time without a watch. Participants also had activities about First Nations agriculture and First Nations wildlife management. The participants kept journals, digital photographs and had field trips that included pH tests, calculating velocity, seed viability testing, computer applications, science wheel, soil testing and light refraction and magnification activities. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned skills such as what are science, education and salaries in the science field. The youth leaders gained valuable experience in classroom management and science and technology delivery. Other skills acquired by the participants were about communication, networking and trust exercises. The participants acquired knowledge about the Nisga’a agriculture, science and technology with all kinds of experiments.

20

11


9




$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The youth enjoyed the activities of the camp and youth leaders gained valuable experience in classroom management and science and technology delivery.

25

Gitwangak Band Council Kitwanga, BC

Program Activities The Gitwangak Band Council held a one-week Science Fair and contracted Mad Science from North Vancouver, BC to provide a science program during the month of July 2001. The participants were involved in activities that included robot making, super goop, water experiments, wildlife and making rockets. Participant Learned Skills Participants learned about the three stages of rocket flight and first-hand experience on how that affected their own unit. All participants achieved additional building skills and learned how to assemble their own rockets and robots. The participants learned how to work together on a project.

25

13


12




$5,000.00

Program Evaluation There were no life threatening incidences and everyone had lots of fun while learning about science. The Mad Science program provided an interesting approach to learning about the various aspects of Science and Technology. The overall evaluation from the children towards the program was that it was fun and would like to participate in the program again.

26

Gitwinksihlkw Village Government New Aiyansh, BC

Program Activities The program theme of the Gitwinksihlkw Village Government linked traditional ecological knowledge to science and technology and science disciplines. Program activities included icebreaker exercises, hands-on experiments, applications of mathematics and technology, distributive communication, traditional ecological knowledge and science and First Nations wildlife management. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned a variety of skills that included communication, networking and trust exercises. Skills learned in the area of technology and biology were how to put together the insides of a computer, creating an automatic crossword puzzle on computer. Participants explored what is science, and learned by the use of experiments and the collection and manipulation of raw data. An important component of the program was how to use reference science books, indexes and definitions.

12

6


6


10-18



$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The camp ran as scheduled, was well prepared and the youth enjoyed the program activities. The youth leaders gained valuable learning experience in classroom management and science and technology camp delivery.

27

Gwa’sala-Nakwaxda’xw Family Services Port Hardy, BC

Program Activities The focus of the camp was to provide participants with cultural education as it related to science and technology. The program designed to be community-oriented program as opposed to a program in a school setting. Participants had Elders teaching them about traditional medicines and plant usages. A trip to Vancouver, BC included activities at the Science World and the Vancouver Zoo. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned some of the traditional healing methods from the Elders in the community. They learned about the skeleton of an eagle from a local veterinarians and studied shellfish with a local biologist. Other skills learned were on the life cycle of the salmon from the Alpha Fish Processing Company.

20

12


8


16-19


Grade 10-12



$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The trip to Vancouver to visit Science World and the Vancouver Zoo was an eye-opening experience for the participants as they explored science and technology. Participants enhanced their existing knowledge on agriculture in the local community.

28

Hagwilget Village Council New Hazelton, BC

Program Activities The Summer Science and Technology Camp included many events, programs and activities for the participants. Participants visited a local library, RCMP detachment, parks, lakes and nature walks. The field trips included lessons about water, personal and bike safety. The participants included their families in an event to a local lake to learn about parks, wildlife and water. Participant Learned Skills Participants learned about the importance of goal setting, objectives and activity planning. Each day, participants kept a journal of their activities and learned new communication and time-management skills. Other learned skills included conflict resolution, teamwork, and teaching methods when dealing with younger children, punctuality, organizational skills, constructive criticism and appropriate dress. Participants quickly learned the gifts of other and utilized their teambuilding plan, coordinated and organized everyday events.

30

15


15


Education level of participants Primary-Post

Secondary



$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The participants included their families in the activities at a local lake. The success was the inclusion of families. One parent said her granddaughter went to bed early so she could go to the Day Camp.

29

Homalco Indian Band Campbell River, BC

Program Activities The Homalco Indian Band delivered a variety of programs for participants. A college student and youth worker provided the activities. From Ocean Life to Wild life the Kindergarten to Grade six students participated in nature walks through trails and parks, explored tidal pools, day trips to the beach, petting zoo and a vegetable farm. The Grade seven to twelve students participated in hiking, canoeing, kayaking, computer technology, applications and educational software. Students in an age range from 14-18 participated in a trip to attend a career fair. Participant Learned Skills The Kindergarten to Grade six students learned about the environment, ocean life, wild and plant life and trees. Skills developed ranged from environmental awareness (plants, trees, outdoor orientation and safety, animal and wild life and education) outdoor activities and safety (kayaking and rope courses) education and awareness for ocean and tidal pool life. Students who attended a career fair explored career opportunities in forestry management, fisheries management, and BC Hydro. Various hiking and physical activities provided an awareness of general fitness.

46

21


25




$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The Summer Science and Technology Camp was very successful with the participation of a college student and youth worker. There involvement added to the overall value and benefit to the students.

30

Huu-ay-aht First Nation Bamfield, BC

Program Activities With Huu-ay-aht First Nation being located in a remote area it was very beneficial to have a Mad Science group come to the community. Most activities included significant take home creations that the participants made during their time at camp. Participants constructed robots, rockets, periscopes, slime, silly putty, CG owls, telescopes and much more. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned to build robot and rocket kit projects. Problem solving techniques were learned and skills on how to work together.

21

10


10




$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The Mad Science Camp was a huge success. The instructors were very good at putting the children at ease. The participants were excited with all that they had learned and happy with their robots, rockets and so much more. I would not hesitate to recommend this type of camp to other communities and/or schools.

31

Iskut Valley Health Services Iskut, BC

Program Activities The Summer Science Camp, Headstart and Iskut Youth Group participated in marmot hunts, setting spring pole snares for gophers, exploring life in ponds and streams, the process of tanning moose hides, dissecting moose and caribou and drying the meat. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned how to hunt marmot, setting spring pole snares, tanning, dissecting and drying moose meat.

38

11


27


Maximum age 18


K-Grade 12



$8,873.21

Program Evaluation There were many Elders, families and community members who were a big part of the camp and they shared and taught the participants quite a few things. The Camp was very successful and enjoyable. Thank you sincerely for the continued support.

32

Katzie First Nation Pitt Meadows, BC

Program Activities The participants were very excited to hear the program was running again. Mad Science put an age appropriate program together that was fun as well as informative. Some of the activities were Earth awareness, insects, bugs and Space exploration. Space and rockets were the most memorable for the participants. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned about space projects, Earth and sciences, nature and insects and rocket building.

26

13


13




$4,196.96

Program Evaluation The space and rockets were the most memorable for the participants. When the rockets were completed the participants all ran to the Band office and couldn’t get the words out fast enough because they were so excited about creating such a fascinating instrument on there own. The participants launched their rockets in front of an audience, having onlookers validating what they had worked so hard for was cool for them.

33

Kispiox Community School Hazelton, BC

Program Activities The Summer and Science Technology Camp was held in conjunction with a Rediscovery Wilderness Camp at an ancient village site of Kuldo, BC. Participants attending had the opportunity for hands-on experience in gathering medicinal plants, also plants used for everyday living and work. Several post-secondary students taught and conducted several nature hikes, built emergency shelters, identified traditional herbs and plants and their uses, and studied the eco-systems of the area and other traditional uses of the land. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned which plants are beneficial in terms of medicine, food and general well being. Participants collected, preserved and stored various herbs. They learned of their traditional uses and current uses in Gitksan Society. Other skills learned were about the eco-system in wilderness settings, food gathering and the geography of the area. Participants learned about food safety, health, hygiene, and animal safety. Older participants learned about the Skeena River system, basic navigation and water safety. The group learned to work together, problem solving and using the skills learned at the camp.

80

40


40




$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The camp has grown every year and more students are involved in the Summer Science and Technology Camp. This year we included younger children who seemed to be extremely interested. Future plans may include even younger children in the camp.

34

Kitkatla Band Council Kitkatla, BC

Program Activities Kitkatla Band Council hosted a Mad Science of Vancouver Island and BC Interior fun, exciting, educational camps for participants to participate in many Mad Science activities as well as a major take home project, either a robot or rocket building project. The camp promoted many different aspects of science and technology in a manner that encourages young people to consider a career in science. Participant Learned Skills The participant had the opportunity to learn and develop a sense of self-confidence and self esteem in an educational setting as well as a recreational setting.

50

23


27




$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The Mad Science Camp was a great success. The participants enjoyed every day of the camp and each of the activities. The community is quite isolated and there had never been any of these types of activities happening for students. The students, parents and also sponsoring organizations were quite pleased with the event and were hoping to offer another camp for next year.

35

Kitlope Nu-Yum Rediscovery Society Kitamaat Village, BC

Program Activities The Kitlope Nu-Yum Rediscovery Society hired youth from each clan to be youth science leaders. Activities consisted of social science, clan competitions, incorporation of traditional ecological knowledge and science of forestry, ecology, biology, agriculture and economics dispelled myths of science by having youth demonstrate to their younger peers a number of science applications in a traditional setting. Mock interviews and role-plays with scientists promoted jobs in the science field. The plethora of activities, experiments, pre-employment skills training presented a large amount of information to the youth in a number of mediums and forms including word searches, question matching, open-ended questions and dialogue. Participant Learned Skills Participants learned how much science there was in their lives. Both youth leaders and participants learned about connections between Haisla knowledge and Science. In Biology, participants learned how to use their senses while using traditional materials. In Botany, participants were able to identify plants and their plant uses.

45

23


22




$4,997.81

Program Evaluation The combination of food and prizes greatly enhanced the experience of youth participants. As this was the first Science Camp than many, if not all of the youth had participated. The youth enjoyed the camp immensely while participating in a science event with Haisla Nation Elders and role models form their own community.

36

Klahoose First Nation Cortes Island, BC

Program Activities The Klahoose Summer Science Camp provided marine stewardship hikes, multi-media training, computer training and paddle instruction. Participant Learned Skills Participants learned about marine ecology, and the connected eco-systems, marine environment and the cause and effect with human use. They learned about the weather, Earth, animals and plants that were in the surrounding area. Through multi-media training, many participants learned how to use a digital video camera. Two participants gained valuable experience with editing video footage by turning them into movies with movie software. Participants mastered using a computer scanner, CD burner, digital microscope and a web cam. Other skills learned were on word processing, typing tutor, Internet research about science. Cultural skills learned were on fishing, gathering and preparing traditional foods, carving paddles, working with cedar tree bark, making headbands, bracelets and canoe bailers for practical use. Participants learned the language through the teachings of the Elders.

15

5


10


Education level of participants Preschool -

Grade 12



$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The Klahoose Summer and Science Technology Camp was a great learning experience for all involved. All of the highly educational programming of traditional and modern science and technology discovered was a true benefit to the participants.

37

Kwakiutl Band Council Port Hardy, BC

Program Activities Participants examined the role of yeast and baking powder for experiment uses. There were nature walks, cultural performances, studying the life cycle of salmon and collecting samples. Participants made dancing aprons, researched family crests, went whale watching, studied traditional use of plants and medicines and attended a youth conference. Participants explored the role of plate tectonics and continental drift in forming a hot spring. Participants collected bugs and slugs for a woodland terrarium. There was an indoor scavenger hunt, field trip to a local fish hatchery, beach study, cultural days and traditional crafts and cooking. Participant Learned Skills Participants learned survival skills, gross motor skills, team building, and creative thinking. They also learned about the life of plants and animals in the forest and river, the importance of water and life cycle of the salmon. Other skills learned were hands-on science experiments, chemical reactions, conservation and research, marine eco-system, traditional First Nations foods and preparation, and a visual observation of the ocean and its habitats.

24

14


10




$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The learning of science was through exploration and discovery. The youth learned about their world, the environment through traditional teachings.

38

Kwakitul District Council Campbell River, BC

Program Activities Two three-day camps had participants following a “Survivor” theme, trying to make a fire, create a shelter and find food. The first day was a real revelation for the participants as they appreciated the scientific and technological complexity of their ancestors who could live off the land. Elders taught ethnobotany skills, marine biology, harvesting techniques, cedar bark uses, cooking skills, and many other traditional sciences and technologies. Each of the participants worked on creating a fire with nothing but a knife and flint with an 80% success rate. The activities included Kwakwala and Laichwala language. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned traditional knowledge that was valuable in the present day academic context. They learned how to survive in the woods by using only a compass and chart they became part of a treasure hunt.

30

15


15




$4,196.96

Program Evaluation The program was a huge success for the participants as the timing was right, logistics, transportation and weather conditions, but most of all the participants had fun learning about science and technology.

39

Kwikwetlem First Nation Coquitlam, BC

Program Activities The Kwikwetlem First Nation had a Mad Science Summer Camp. The activities included rocket building, with a full launch kit for all participants and/or robot building. The youth participants also made dry ice, bath booms and many other exciting activities. Participant Learned Skills The youth participants learned how to make dry ice, robots, bath booms and many other exciting activities. The youth did a great job of working together and learning how to work with the young ones. They also had a good lesson in listening skills and how important it is to listen to instructions and following instructions. The youth learned how to work with their hands.

12

5


7


6-16


Grade 1-10



$3,945.00

Program Evaluation All the participants had a great deal of fun at the Science Camp. The launching of the rockets was a huge success; we had all the Band office staff watching the youth letting their rockets off in the parking lot. The youth really liked the instructor as she made learning a lot of fun.

40

Kyah Wiget Education Society Moricetown, BC

Program Activities The Kyah Wiget Education Society employed two participants who attended a Summer Science Camp at the University of British Columbia. The students were to return with an increased knowledge and a greater enthusiasm for the sciences and a chosen career in this field of study. The remainder of the program consisted of working in a Cultural Heritage Research project and in a Cultural Camp and working with a cultural heritage team. The team traveled around the Wet’suwet’en territories identifying and mapping cultural heritage sites. Participant Learned Skills The young men found the work with the cultural heritage team very educational in terms of knowing what land base their clan was responsible for and what resources needed protection. From their research work both student learned the process of conducting research and traditional knowledge of the Elders. The learned information related to Wet’suwet’en culture, resource management and geographical features of the traditional territories.

2

0


2


15


Grade 10



$5,000.00

Program Evaluation One student decided to pursue health and proved that academically and the second student was very interested in the environmental science area. Both students also made a significant contribution to a research project.

41

Laxgalt’sap Village Government New Aiyansh, BC

Program Activities The program theme of the Greenville/Gitwinksihlkw Village Government linked traditional ecological knowledge to science and technology and science disciplines. Program activities included icebreaker exercises, hands-on experiments, applications of mathematics and technology, distributive communication, traditional ecological knowledge and science and First Nations wildlife management. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned a variety of skills that included communication, networking and trust exercises. Skills learned in the area of technology and biology were how to put together the insides of a computer, creating an automatic crossword puzzle on computer. Participants explored what is science, and learned by the use of experiments and the collection and manipulation of raw data. An important component of the program was how to use reference science books, indexes and definitions.

10

2


8




$5,000.00

Program Evaluation There were three evaluations completed by the participants and two camp reports done by the youth leaders. The camp ran as scheduled and additional unanticipated benefits occurred in the evening recreation program. All the participants had a great time with learning about communication, sports, volcanoes and experiments.

42

Lillooet Tribal Council Lillooet, BC

Program Activities The Lillooet Tribal Council Summer Science Camp was to promote an understanding and interest in St’at’imc traditional scientific knowledge and technology. The Camp served six local First Nations communities and was an integral component of a comprehensive Foundation Skills Development Program. The five of six communities were able to each have five full day traditional scientific knowledge and technology camps in which elementary school aged children participated fully in learning and practicing the skills for drum-making, fishing, field trip to a prominent local archaeological site, cedar basketry, pine needle basketry, medicinal and food plant uses, and horsemanship. One community held a five-day camp out project in which students had exposure to and the opportunity to participate in a wide range of traditional activities and scientifically related knowledge. Participant Learned Skills The youth learned about the scientific resources and technology traditionally utilized and practiced by First Nations people.

60

30


30


4-12


Elementary



$4,998.00

Program Evaluation Between the five communities, the science camp week received very good participation from the children with attendance reaching approximately 50-60 participants per day. Communities were supportive providing in-kind contributions by ensuring transportation to the field sites as well as meal preparation and use of facilities.

43

Lower Kootenay Band Education Society Creston, BC

Program Activities Participants acquired basic computer skills at the Kootenay Employment Centre in Creston, BC. They also became more familiar with the Internet and how it is useful as a research tool, especially for biological research. Participants had a comprehensive summary on geothermal power at Ainsworth Hot Springs, BC. A respected cultural advisor talked to the participants about the cultural significance and history of the hot springs from a Ktunaxa perspective. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned basic computer skills and know how to use the Internet. They now have a basic understanding of geothermal power and about the history of a hot spring from a Ktunaxa perspective. They were able to appreciate the science behind the natural phenomenon, as well as the traditional usage of the hot springs within a cultural context. Participants acquired new skills that will give them a sense of accomplishment and increased self-confidence.

22

9


13


5-16


K-11



$5,000.00

Program Evaluation It was a win/win experience for the participants. Participants appreciated the science behind the natural phenomenon, as well as the traditional knowledge usage of the hot springs within a cultural context. The participants may now pass down this knowledge through oral transmission, and in doing so; they were keeping the oral tradition strong.

44

Lower Similkameen Indian Band Keremeos, BC

Program Activities A series of field trips involved youth in an Indigenous Environmental Network Conference on water management held in Penticton, BC. While on site, youth built four sweats for several hundred participants in attendance. Activities focused on six key science experiences that related to trees, animals, plants, water, land and air. A canoe trek spanned from the far north and far south of traditional Okanagan territory. To prepare for this event, it was necessary to build two canoes. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned about the processes for canoe building such as carving, digging out, steaming and patching canoes, forging carving tools, water safety and water for self-discipline and spiritual strength for the canoe trek. Participants learned about harvesting, a number of roots, berries and herbs, fishing, processing technology, building a sweat, and specific issues and challenges of contemporary Indigenous people involved in water and land management throughout the world. The Head Smashed-In Buffalo Jump venue showed the youth how other Aboriginal cultures harvested their resources around them and how the buffalo was the center of an entire culture. The participants learned the discovery of natural history and how nature was developed.

42

21


21




$5,000.00

Program Evaluation There was great value for participants in showing the youth some distant venues and different traditional knowledge.

45

Metlakatla Band Council Prince Rupert, BC

Program Activities The Metlakatla Band Council provided a Mad Science of Vancouver Camp that included rocket building with a full launch kit and robot building for all participants. The camp was fun, exciting and educational for the participants to participate in many Mad Science activities as well as a major take home project, either a robot or rocket building project. The camp promoted many different aspects of science and technology in a manner that encourages young people to consider a career in science. Participant Learned Skills The participant had the opportunity to learn and develop a sense of self-confidence and self esteem in an educational setting as well as a recreational setting.

12

6


6


Education level of participants K-5


$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The camp went very well, the participants enjoyed the science activities and launching the rockets, they had made.

46

Mowachaht/Mulchalat First Nations Gold River, BC

Program Activities The Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nations provided four traditional development sessions with Elder and youth participants. The Elders and younger group participants made traditional cedar headbands for use at cultural events. The Elders and group participants identified cedar species in various growth stages, traditional harvesting methods and ways to preliminary treat material. Other program activities included participants identifying several animal and plant species and six berries and their uses, methods of preparation and preserving techniques. Participant Learned Skills The participant’s feedback was that they were keen and received the information well. The program provided the participants with an opportunity to revisit traditional skills.

45

28


17


7-17


Grade 2-12



$3,800.00

Program Evaluation

The campout was a wonderful opportunity to do this activity at home, as it was done for many past generations.

47

Muskoti Learning Centre Moberly Lake, BC

Program Activities The Muskoti Learning Centre delivered a youth cultural camp and focused on traditional cultural development, environmental awareness and survival skills. Program activities included traditional plant use and identification, traditional harvesting and gathering, building a smoke rack for wild meat, fishing, hiking, basic navigation and visits to sites of historic and cultural significance. Evening activities consisted of wilderness-oriented games and storytelling. Older youth participated in a youth survivor camp, despite the terrible rainy weather, the youth remained focused and motivated. A contributing success of the camp was its location. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned about survival skills, cultural skill development and environmental awareness. Other skills learned were about traditional plant use and identification, how to build a smoke rack, fishing, hiking and basic navigation.

20

10


10


10-19


Grade 5-12



$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The camp was an overall success, but there still needs to be more emphasis on pre-planning and preparation. We are able to build on the need of future program based on the successes of previous camps. The camp was a true learning experience.

48

Namgis Health Centre Alert Bay, BC

Program Activities Participants received first aid training, self-esteem and skills development before the Summer and Science and Technology camps. Activities consisted of traditional medicines made from roots, leaves, bark, stinging nettle and many other forest products. The participants made drums from moose and deerskins. Participants stripped cedar bark and transformed bark into key rings, bracelets and baskets. The participants picked berries and produced jam, but focused on the science aspect in cooking. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned that science can be fun and comes in many different forms. The cultural and traditional ways of cooking, canning, drum making and the usages of forest products for traditional medicines was an excellent way of learning related to science and technology.

300

150


150

Age(s) of participants 5-17+

Education level of participants K7-Grade 12

Post-Secondary


$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The camps were a wonderful experience for all the participants. The camps provided a fun way of learning about science and technology in a cultural and traditional way. Community youth look forward to future opportunities to participate in these types of camp initiatives.

49

Nuchatlaht Tribe Zeballos, BC

Program Activities The Mad Science of Vancouver Island team worked with the participants over a five-day period and had them performing small experiments and discussion took place why the experiments worked. Participants built a hovercraft with a small vacuum engine that they could actually ride. They watched their shadows remain on phosphorescence paper and studied the solar system. They launched a 2 liter pop bottle about eighty feet into the air using a bike pump. A fog machine showed how light reflects into our eyes using a Pringle can as a created model. Participant Learned Skills Apart from learning about motion, matter, energy and their interactions, the most excitement came when the participants build their rockets and launched them on the last day of the camp.

24

12


12




$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The participants remarked that the science camp was fun, neat and cool; they especially enjoyed making silly putty and slime and liked the projects they worked on in the camp. A formal science class or laboratory is something we do not have in the local school. It was great to see the participants astonished or bewildered as it showed what caused their amazement. It was good to see the participants actively involved in the camp activities.

50

Nus Wadeezulth Community School Takla Landing, BC

Program Activities The program focused on the environmental sciences and traditional Indigenous conceptions of science. Participants gained an understanding of their land in terms of how the resources based economy had affected their ecosystem. Participants found out about clear cutting and its devastating effects on plants, animals and humans. One aspect of the program focused on how the people of the region interacted with the land. Participants examined traditional medicinal values of plants, migration of the local caribou, fishing and changing signs in nature. Participant Learned Skills Participants learned more about the logging industry and the associated impacts to the environment. They also learned about science concepts such as photosynthesis, symbiosis and chemical affects to the land. Participants also gained valuable traditional knowledge related to fishing, beaver hunting and berry picking.

36

16


20


8-18


Grade 3-10



$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The program encouraged participants to choose science as a career path and helped develop a positive outlook towards Indigenous knowledge. Participants expressed appreciation to the traditional aspects of the camp.

51

Osoyoos Indian Band Oliver, BC

Program Activities As residents of the beautiful Okanagan Valley within a great diversity of animal habitats the participants were able to investigate many species that live in these habitats through field trips, Internet and library research. The participants used books and the Internet site to gather information on each animal. Then they drafted the information into the expected format for this project. Participant Learned Skills The participants became very knowledgeable about ecosystems and animal species when this research project was completed. Each participant typed the researched information, edited any spelling errors, printed the text and then completed the page with an illustration.

13

5


8


7-12


Grade 2-7



$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The participants left the program with a wealth of knowledge that will prove valuable to them in the future.

52

Pacheedaht First Nation Port Renfrew, BC

Program Activities The Pacheedaht First Nation focused primarily on participants exposed to the natural sciences. The older group activities highlighted potential career opportunities while the 7-11 youth focused on traditional ecological knowledge. The operational plan was to provide a tour of a fish hatchery, Vancouver aquarium and Macmillan Planetarium, forest tour, and archeology site tours. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned about self-contained underwater breathing apparatus, scuba and snorkeling skills and participated in a wilderness adventure (virtual voyages simulator and ground station Canada. They learned about salmon brood stock, egg takes procedures, shore keepers methodology, mammal identification, habitat utilization and requirements.

30

22


8




$4,196.96

Program Evaluation The Pacheedaht youth had many new experiences, activities and ideas through the camp.

53

Penticton Indian Band Penticton, BC

Program Activities A group of young people, parents, elders and support staff participated in a field trip. Activities included camping, learning about the Kootenay people and their heritage, traditional medicines and foods. Participants looked at the history of Vallican Camp, the legend of Frog Mountain and understanding the role that many people played in providing the return and proper burial of ancient remains of Kootenay people. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned about cultural and traditional berry picking, traditional fishing practices, and the importance of the historical sites in the Kootenay area. Other skills learned were about the importance of unity, traditional sweet grass gatherings, and the medicines available in the territory and Elders traditions.

12

8


4


Education level of participants Preschool –

Grade 10


$5,000.00

Program Evaluation

The Summer Science and Technology Camp initiative was a tremendous success and the group had a wonderful time. There were plenty of memories, laughs and new skills learned by the participants.

54

Prophet River Band Fort Nelson, BC

Program Activities Mad Science of Vancouver visited Prophet River for a one-week science camp with program activities that included rocket and robot building and a plethora of educational science. At the end of building their science creations, parents were on-site to admire the work of the students who explained how they completed their projects. Participant Learned Skills The students learned skills by participating in hands-on activities that included how to put ingredients together to make silly putty, slime, systematic rocket and robot building. They also learned about periscopes, an observation of objects that was not in a direct line of sight, CG owls and how to use telescopes.

12

8


4




$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The hands-on approach was an excellent way for students to learn, as it was the best learning style for First Nations learners. Students and parents enjoyed the Summer Science and Technology Camp this year.

55

Qualicum First Nation Qualicum Beach, BC

Program Activities Twelve participants had a week long science adventure on topics about biology, mad messages, code red, planet Earth, earth stalkers, space, flying the frontier, sports and advantage mad science. Participants used a Cryogenic laboratory. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned about acids and bases, dry ice, laser light, matter, rocket building, space, rocket demonstrations, electricity, magnetic magic, optical illusions, lights, slime, sonic sounds and many other skills.

12

8


4




$2,887.50

Program Evaluation The 5-day Mad Science Camp was well-attended and created great enthusiasm among all of the participants. The Mad Science Camp made it fun for all the participants by providing a sparkling, imaginative learning environment.

56

Saikuz First Nation Vanderhoof, BC

Program Activities The Saikuz First Nation camp focused on living in the wilderness campsite with a strong emphasis on historical living and survival. Participants had basic first aid as well as some survival first aid techniques. Participants had a field trip to identify, gather and prepare different medicinal plants. A visit to a nearby archeological site utilized an expert who provided local history and archeology to demonstrate how modern techniques can tell a story of the past. Participants participated in cultural and related activities with science professionals including an ecologist, fisheries technician, archeologist and wildlife biologist. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned about fish harvesting methods, traditional conservation methods, drying and smoking. While on the field trip participants learned to gather materials needed to make a birch bark container in which to store their dried fish. They also learned how about ecosystems, medicinal plants, first aid and living in the wilderness.

4

1


3




$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The program provided an opportunity to inspire students to pursue their interests in sciences and education. A traditional method of educating First Nations students was done by having them watch, listen, practice and apprenticeship methods.

57

Seabird Island Band Agassiz, BC

Program Activities The Seabird Island Summer Science Program focused on cultural sciences embodied with a holistic balance of traditional, cultural and contemporary views of the Seabird Island youth. Activities included a Skagit Valley hike, Sto:lo Nation library research and tour, cedar harvesting, and external trips to the University College of the Fraser Valley, HR Macmillan Space Centre and to the Sto:lo Nation Government House. Participant Learned Skills Beyond the educational experiences, enduring development was desired and a general expectation. Youth empowerment was encouraged in the Seabird Island Summer Science Program. The participants learned about the correlation between culture and technology in the Sto:lo Nation.

14

7


7




$4,196.96

Program Evaluation The youth enjoyed their challenges and met each one with an underlying message of youth empowerment. The participants were able to analyze and compare the relationship of the Sto:lo people with the natural world by relating the traditional settlement and lifestyle patterns to contemporary lifestyles of the Upper Fraser Valley and Seabird Island settlement. They were also able to describe traditional and contemporary uses of Sto:lo technologies, including the uses of plants and animals in relation to the seasons and salmon runs and Sto:lo society.

58

Seton Lake Indian Band Shalalth, BC

Program Activities The goal of the Tmicw Rediscovery Camp was to bring youth out into the wilderness to get in touch with the earth and themselves. The campers were introduced to the St’at’imc tradition of respecting and caring for nature. Activities were done to build teams and to bring people together. Participants built sweat lodges, sang, drummed, and story telling took place in sharing circles. There were hikes every day and used natural signage and a compass. Trail markings were identified, culturally modified trees, marked graves and places. Medicinal and food plants were identified and discussed as well as animals and birds. Young people were shown how to hike in the bush without damaging the environment, how to gather berries, how to prepare food and how to manage waste. Participants engaged in flint knapping or the making of arrowheads. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned how to hike safely in the bush, use a compass and identify ancestral signs. They also were able to identify edible berries, medicinal plants, how to fish and prepare for food, how to skin a deer, and rifle safety. Participants were able to work as a team and had fun without electricity or modern amusements.

36

18


18


12-19


Grade 6-12



$13,887.50

Program Evaluation There was good commitment from the community and were more involved in volunteering than has been seen for many years. Respect among youth for traditions was achieved and an appreciation of how the elders lived was gained by youth.

59

Shxw’ō whámel First Nation Hope, BC

Program Activities The participant activities included rocket and robot building, periscopes, slime, silly putty, space shuttles, canister cannons and more. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned about basic robot works, rocket launching, chemistry in daily life, engineering activities that taught about structures, domes and about earth awareness and nature.

17

9


8




$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The camp was a huge success and the participants wished it were longer in duration. The activities actively engaged the participants in science and technology. Participants liked the hands-on approach to learning.

60

Siska Indian Band Lytton, BC

Program Activities The Siska Indian Band held a Mad Science session that was provided by the Mad Science of Vancouver Island. The program consisted of robot building, rocket building, mad science party, and science of sport, mad messages and earth stalkers. The program was run over a five-day period and all had fun. Participant Learned Skills While the participants built robots they learned how to assemble gears, wire the motherboard and complete with a working robot that responds to sound. The rocket building provided learning in propulsion, time delay and ejection. In the Science of Sports, they learned about the centre of gravity through games. In the Mad Messages they learned about the Morse Code and learned how to play some colored games, make a secret code wheel, color analyzers and learned about chromatography. In Earth Stalkers, they learned how to make animal track molds, making common scents and using their smelling senses.

21

11


10


?


?



$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The success of the program is evident in the rate of participation for the five days. The participants reactions were “This is fun”, “So that’s how it works” and “Can we do this again?” the objectives of the program were met.

61

Skeetchestn Indian Band Savona, BC

Program Activities Participants gained knowledge in the various ecosystems local to the Skeetchestn First Nations community. There were structured classroom and outdoor activities that stimulated interest in the natural resource sciences and technological fields in a safe, fun and relaxed environment. Community fisheries and recreation department managers, a registered biologist, archeologist, and natural resource science student conveyed traditional ecological knowledge. Participant Learned Skills Participants identified and respected a multitude of values associated with major ecosystems near and far from their homes. Scientific terminology such as photosynthesis, biogeogclimatic zone that described how plants and animals live concert with their environment. Understanding how a tree functions and grows, the values of the forest, identified indicator plants in specific ecosystems, how to make a plant press, and how to use a azimuth compass, setting declination and taking accurate bearings.

12

7


5


10-16


Grade 6-12



$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The camp was fun, educational and the participants had a wonderful experience interacting with one another. The campground was a good choice as host for this educational project due to its geographical location. A major focus was to correlate native traditional ecological knowledge with the contemporary science disciplines such as physics, chemistry and biology.

62

Skwah First Nation Chilliwack, BC

Program Activities The Skwah First Nation provided their participants with field trips to Science World, Vancouver Aquarium and Colossus. A local First Nations man was actively involved in teaching the participants about culture and history of First Nations people and shared his teachings. Participants received instruction on recycling methods and about traditional plants in the area. Participants had in-depth knowledge shared by a local First Nations woman on traditional plants used for medicinal purposes. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned about marine life at the Vancouver Aquarium through hands-on experiences. At Colossus, they learned about modern technology and viewed it on a 3-D movie. The participants gained relevant educational information acquired at the Science World and everyone left with a bag full of projects and knowledge to do again or teach their family and friends.

42

21


21


Education level of participants Preschool-

Grade 12



$4,196.96

Program Evaluation Parent letters conveyed gratitude for providing the Summer Science and Technology Camp. The participants enjoyed all of the activities and the Skwah First Nation was extremely pleased with the activities provided such as crafts and games planned for the camp duration.

63

Skowkale First Nation Sardis, BC

Program Activities The Skowkale First Nation activities included a camping trip, a visit to Science World and the Vancouver aquarium and zoo. The participants processed salmon at the Skowkale Fish camp. The Skowkale First Nation community held a career fair with many invited professionals involved in health and science occupations. Participants set up a science centre displaying their hands-on projects and pamphlets of other science experiments to explore. The Vancouver Zoo trip introduced the participants to many wild and exotic animals, birds and reptiles. At the Vancouver aquarium, the participants observed marine life such as the dolphins and killer whales. Participant Learned Skills The program activities provided the participants with opportunities to explore the field of science and technology. The Career Fair was very beneficial in the participants learning form the professionals in the career field, and were able to ask many questions about science and technology. The participants learned about a variety of science experiments that they were able display their hands-on projects at the Career Fair.

25

15


10




$5,000.00

Program Evaluation This year “Summer Science” was a very successful program as there was a lot of learning at each event and ample hands-on experiences for all of the participants.

64

Songhees First Nation Victoria, BC

Program Activities The participants received a Power-Point presentation on the Songhees traditional territories. An entire day was spent touring the Royal BC Museum and a “behind the scenes” meeting the curators and viewing of First Nations archaeological photos and artifacts. The participants visited a local youth employment office. Six Elders provided a community pit-cook and spoke on traditional foods and harvesting techniques. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned to identify hundreds of traditional plants and the usages in foods and medicines. A park naturalist demonstrated how to make a weir fish trap by hand in a traditional way. The trip to the youth employment office provided the participants with exposure to key occupations in science and technology.

6

3


3


16-18


Grade 10-12



$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The participants gained useful knowledge and experience on science and technology by participating in the variety of program activities that were offered in the camp.

65

Spuzzum First Nation Spuzzum, BC

Program Activities The Spuzzum First Nation invited Mad Science team to provide a Science Camp for the participants. The participants made rockets and robots, slime, paper airplanes, gum, coca-cola and candy floss. Three of the participants attended a two-week survival camp where they participated in exploring areas such as the forest environment, beaver dams, fish runs, eagle nests and deer trails. Participant Learned Skills The participants at the Mad Science Camp learned how to put a rocket together, knew how robots worked, made paper airplanes, what caused static electricity, and how to make gum and coca cola. Participants learned at the survival camp about the forest environment, beaver dams and fish runs.

10

4


6



Preschool-Grade 6



$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The project was very successful and the participants would like to go again and enroll in leadership training before the next camp in order to prepare them to be camp guides.

66

St. Mary’s Band Administration Cranbrook, BC

Program Activities The St. Mary’s Band Administration provided rocket building and launching, rocket theory, current rocket data and uses. Other activities included police investigation techniques and health living issues. A local RCMP detachment arranged and facilitated a tour of the RCMP detachment that included viewing holding cells, bare cell, fingerprinting room and the processing area. The finale of the tour was an introduction of the Canine unit and met an RCMP officer and his canine partner, Maximillian. Participant Learned Skills Participants learned the pros and cons of the consequences of ones choices. A Block Parent Program had them learning about the importance of safety. Participants learned about RCMP policy and procedures, investigative procedures and a canine unit. Participants learned about rockets, assembly, painting, completion and preparation for launching. Healthy living focused on participants learning about maintaining a healthy lifestyle, interaction with physically and non-physically impaired Elders.

25

13


12




$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The St. Mary’s Band Administration wanted to encourage their children to have a greater scope and advantage to do something different for the summer. Due to the age difference there was a varied amount of enthusiasm, the participants enjoyed the rocket component. The Canine unit tour was a big hit and the participants were impressed with the dog’s ability.

67

Sumas First Nation Abbotsford, BC

Program Activities The participants visited a fish camp in Yale, BC, the Xa:ytem Longhouse Interpretative Centre in Mission, BC, and explored the environment with a periscope. Mad Science of Vancouver had participants making their own chemical soda pop, polymers, investigating daily uses of magnets, electro-magnetic fields and building their own electro magnet. The hidden components of light were explored while learning how to build a Newton’s Color Wheel. Participant Learned Skills Participants learned how to clean and cut fish, can and wind dry fish at the fish camp. The life cycle of the salmon, the affects of pollution and the stages of salmon life was learned and how to protect the streams, and the surrounding vegetation. Participants know how to be safe around a river, how to cast and inspect the nets at the fishing site. The Xa”ytem Longhouse Interpretative Centre had participants learning about a pit house, traditional uses of the cedar bark, carving techniques, fishing and hunting, and the different types of household items and clothing. The Mad Science had participants learning about chemistry and fun take home projects with plenty of taste tests.

8

4


4


15-19


Grade 10-12



$3,872.57

Program Evaluation The camps were an enormous success and the participants experienced eye-opening appreciation for summer and science technology. The participants acquired a good attitude and learned that hard work can be fun.

68

Tl’azt’en Nation Fort St James, BC

Program Activities The Tl’azten Nation provided a Mad Science Camp for participants. The program had the participants building rockets and robots and making magic cup cakes and slime and silly putty from scratch. Participant Learned Skills The participants walked away with an understanding of electricity, acids and bases, flight, gravity and sports science. The participants acquired many new skills, and worked together as a team and as individuals. They supported each other in completing projects and learning new information.

12

6


6




$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The participants found out science was fun learning and found out how animals, plants and their culture were intertwined. This allowed them to apply scientific ideas in an outdoor setting. The camp objectives were met and the whole program was very successful. The community members were supportive and often came to visit. Participation, laughter and smiles form the participants were the best results of the whole program

69

Toquaht Nation Ucluelet, BC

Program Activities The Toquaht First Nation provided a new concept of kinesiology (the science of body movement and its relationship to brain function). The program science projects were all on the concepts of electricity. All participants made their own electricity kits to take home at the end of the week. Other program activities included making origami science booklet, competing electrical circuits, magnet wands, magnet/earth poles, acid/base water testing and studying environmental pollution. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned about the concepts of electricity and how to make their own compasses with a magnet. They learned about water being the most important aspect of Brain Gym is water. They also learned about one exercise that connected the right and left hemisphere in the brain.

13

6


7




$4,196.96

Program Evaluation This year we brought in some new concepts of kinesiology exploring the science of the body movement and its relationship to brain function. The science projects had the participants learning about the concepts of electricity. The added bonus to the camp was the parental involvement. The camp was very informative for the children as well as the adults who attended.

70

Tsawataineuk First Nations Kingcome Inlet, BC

Program Activities The purpose of the Tsawataineuk First Nations Summer Science and Technology Camp was to explore, gather, study and preserve traditional approaches to Science and Technology. A five (5) day camp was held to explore, gather, study, preserve and harvest local wild berries, fruit and fish. Participants identified, gathered and prepared different parts of the berry plant. The project involved community members who acquired a background in science such as a biologist and nurse who became the guest speakers in the program. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned how to identify different parts of the berry plants, edible wild berries and non-edible types. The preparation, process and storing of berries was also learned by using modern methods. Participants learned a variety of fishing techniques such as using fishing lines, line nets, where and how to set a net, harvesting your fish, cleaning and dressing fish, and different methods of preserving fish.

20

10


10


Education level of participants K-Grade12


$5,000.00

Program Evaluation It was felt that this program brings a sense of well-being into the community. Participants learned traditional summer and science technology through the Tsawataineuk culture.

71

Tseycum First Nation North Saanich, BC

Program Activities The Tseycum First Nation held a Summer Ocean Science Camp and a Bug World and Butterfly World Program. The participants toured the Institute of Ocean Sciences facility and listened to a lecture on traditional use of plants in medicine. Activities included discussions on pollutants affecting the area and how to improve our environment. Participants played games with environmentally friendly themes. Participants listened to an Aboriginal Aquatic Leadership Program presentation. Dr. Rose Lenser, a First Nation medical doctor spoke on career choices and how she became a doctor. A Bug World and Butterfly World Program gave 5-8 years old a brief, but fun, introduction to science. Participant Learned Skills

24

12


12




$5,000.00

Program Evaluation Both programs were a huge success. The participants came back each day energized and full of stories about science. The participation was high and these types of experiences will peak more interest in the science field.

72

Ucluelet First Nation Ucluelet, BC

Program Activities Participants participated in a 5-day fun filled science camp that provided them with hands-on projects and experiments that dazzled them and showed them how they can create science experiments with supplies and items right from their own home and outside environment. Participant Learned Skills The skills learned by the participants were extremely educational. Participants learned about the solar system, the different planets, self-propelled motors. Science experiments involved using common household items. Participants learned how to assembly battery operated robots and flying rockets. The last day of camp, the participants launched their rockets.

3

2


1


16-17


Grade 12



$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The participants were amazed with activities performed during the camp week. This program was a great learning experience for all the participants.

73

Upper Similkameen Indian Band Keremeos, BC

Program Activities Participants in nine separate camps had a variety of program activities. The camps focused on the proper collection, curation and utilization of traditional native plants for the purposes of creating objects. The participants were taught proper safety when hiking including a buddy system and what to do in an emergency. Other program activities included poisonous plants, endangered plant identification. Several days were spent on an archaeology dig and how to excavate a pit and screen the sediments afterwards. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned about the identification, location and collection of pine needles. Afterwards, the participants learned the art of making a pine needle basket. Participants identified bull rushes and made visors woven from leaves. The participants were able to learn about culturally modified trees and were exposed to a vast number of other plants, which grow in forests and used by First Nations people. Participants learned to say numbers, colors, plant names and places visited in the Okanagan language.

10

5


5




$5,000.00

Program Evaluation Through the learning the language the participants learned more about their culture. They also grow and learn respect for their Elders. The camp activities taught the participants great patience, especially when it was a very long process to make a small basket.

74

Westbank First Nation Westbank, BC

Program Activities There were two groups in the camp divided according to their ages, while one group was working with computers the other group was playing a game. One group had their own computer with a camp supervisor and computer instructor. Program activities included basic computer introduction, games using different mouse skills, drawing and art programs, Internet and how to design a web site. The other group was able to build their own model rocket with topics discussed on space travel and why we enter space. Each participant launched their own rocket and was able to recover and keep their rockets for future launches. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned the basics of computer programs such as the Internet, drawing and art as well as the learning of the science in space. They discussed and learned about a space program, Canada’s involvement and a look a the planets and mystery of outer space all while building and preparing model rockets to be launched on the final day.

37

20


17




$5,000.00

Program Evaluation Several participants quoted the computer portion of this camp as the part of the summer camp where they learned the most. They also enjoyed building and launching rockets and found space science to be a lot of fun.

75

Xit’olacw School Mount Currie, BC

Program Activities The Mad Science of the Fraser Valley provided a five-day camp for the sixteen participants. The program activities consisted of a variety of hands-on experiments and projects. A few highlights included constructing rockets and robots, as well as experimenting with light, sound and magnets. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned many hands-on activities and engaged in demonstrations. Participants saw how a basic robot worked and built their own robot to take home. The participants investigated arches and geodesic domes. Other skills gained were on testing loads and building bridges, chemistry, ecological problems, nature life cycle and habitats.

16

4


12




$4,266.00

Program Evaluation The camp was an incredible success as the participants worked well together on their projects. The best thing about the program was that participants had fun learning.

76

77

Yekooche First Nation , BC

Program Activities The camp focused on building rockets from kits with the support of the teacher assistants and a Mad Science facilitator. Participants were continuously making observations and drawing conclusions. Participant Learned Skills The participants learned the best by using their senses and by a hands-on approach with program activities. They were applying scientific ideas and learning to problem solve and real logical conclusions.

12

6


6


6-16


K-Grade 8



$5,000.00

Program Evaluation The development of self-esteem was one of the significant objectives that was met in the program. The participants let off their rockets in front of the Elders and community members and it was not difficult to see the pride that each child had in displaying a finished product.

summer science and technology initiative 2001/2002

Documents