Perspectives on indigenous-based programs: the Mishk-Ode-Wendam classroom

Abstract

The Mishk-Ode-Wendam classroom program was created to assist First Nations, Métis, and/or Inuit students who live with an addiction or mental health condition to assist them to obtain their high school diploma. The classroom focuses on supporting their learning by incorporating their cultural values and its connectedness to the spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical well-being realms of knowledge. This thesis focused on a program evaluation of the Mishk-Ode-Wendam classroom program and presents findings gathered from three Sharing Circles and three individual interviews with a total of seven participants participating in the Sharing Circles and three participants were individually interviewed. Key themes emerged from the findings that were classified under strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats.