An independent researcher is evaluating the long-term impacts and community perspectives of the Write to Read BC Project, at our request. Working closely with Indigenous leaders, educators, and community members, this research “will culminate in an assessment report that will guide the re-framing and Indigenization of the Write to Read BC Project.”
The assessment is provided by a program at Simon Fraser University that helps SFU graduate students collaborate with non-profit groups and community groups. The program supports research projects that provide plain-language answers to community-driven research questions at low or no cost to the community partner.
The Write to Read BC study will focus on
- Community collaboration and data collection.
- Literature and media review.
- Data analysis and reporting.
Community collaboration and data collection
The study will:
- collaborate with Indigenous leaders, educators, and community members to gather perspectives on the impact of active and inactive learning centres.
- conduct interviews, facilitate protocol-guided information-sharing sessions, and ensure respectful, ethical data collection.
- assist in developing “case stories” from selected communities, ensuring informed consent and cultural sensitivity.
- document and organize qualitative data to inform the final project report and analysis.
Literature and media review
The study will:
- conduct a literature review focusing on the intersections of Indigenous knowledge systems and colonial education practices.
- review and summarize “grey literature” and media related to the Write to Read BC project, including speeches, audio/video recordings, and planning documents.
- gather and analyse quantitative data on educational outcomes (such as Kindergarten to Grade 12 graduation rates, post-secondary enrolment) in communities with Write to Read BC centres.
- identify gaps in the literature or data and recommend additional resources to address these gaps.
Data analysis and reporting
The study will:
- analyse qualitative and quantitative data to understand changes in community engagement, cultural connectedness, language revitalization, and educational impacts associated with Write to Read BC learning centres.
- assist in preparing interim reports, summaries, and visual presentations to share findings with project stakeholders.
- draft a final report, weaving Indigenous knowledge, community insights, and statistical data into a cohesive narrative.
- assist in developing recommendations for future iterations of Write to Read BC and strategies to support its ongoing sustainability and alignment with Indigenous sovereignty.