THE PROJECT
STEAM Centre provides the space and programming for Indigenous youth to build foundational skills in science, technology, engineering, art/design, and math, contextualized to their communities and unique life experiences. This project saw STEAM programming brought to low-income, at-risk students of Chippewas and Oneida First Nations in grades 5-8. Students explored concepts like incorporating art, design thinking processes, and the use of makerspace technologies into their learning to improve digital literacy skills and engagement with Indigenous art and culture.
COMMUNITY IMPACT
The project was a big success despite the pandemic pivot to virtual delivery, reaching 50 students at two schools – and STEAM Centre provided free computers to each student in need of a device. Several students gave voice to their new education and career ambitions involving digital creation thanks to participating in iSTEAM.
RELATED LINKS
- Read CIRA’s blog, iSTEAM: Where a CIRA grant meets digital literacy and Indigenous creativity
- Check out the program on their website
- Watch a video about the project on YouTube
- Read STEAM’s blog
- Establish Media article about the project
PHOTOS
Student creations from iSTEAM. Photos courtesy of STEAM Centre.
