Child and Family Services Wellbeing and Reform COURSE CONNECTION: The current child welfare system requires significant reform to shift from a deeply rooted protection focus to an emphasis on community healing and wellness. This will require an in-depth review of jurisdiction initiatives, as well as a paradigm shift to capture a holistic vision of wellbeing over the lifespan with a focus on children and youth served in the system. BACKGROUND: Indigenous peoples in Canada are healing from a history of oppression. The effects of colonization continue to be felt today most significantly in Indigenous families and communities. The over representation of Indigenous children in the child welfare system is indicative of ongoing discriminatory practices, a lack of an Indigenous lens in the development and enactment of related policies, and an all too slow process toward a sovereign approach in Indigenous communities. PROJECT-BASED LEARNING (RESEARCH): project-based learning is a teaching method in which “students gain knowledge and skills by working for an extended period of time to research and respond to a complex question, problem, or challenge and results in a production, publication, or presentation that is shared with an audience” (Buck Institute for Education). The outcome of the project work with an Indigenous focus is to “develop a knowledge of understanding of, and respect for, the histories, cultures, languages, contributions, perspectives, experiences and contemporary contexts of First Nations, Inuit, and Metis peoples.” “This project-based learning (research) is a piece of correspondence and will serve as a great launch “to educate others about what you have discovered” meaning you will also use your findings to inform your Presentation assignment for this class as well. CHOICE: This is an independent project submitted only to the instructor. PROJECT GOAL: To research an aspect, piece of legislation, specific child welfare program, gaps in services, or any other relevant topic area relevant to the course focus
