Reports

The publications below are from the research project, First Nations Innovation. Our publications since 2010 have followed a Publications Policy that was updated in 2013.

Click on this link to access all the First Nations Innovation publications. The publications below are reports. From the list below you can read the abstract and download the publication by clicking on the link in the reference.

Publication #86

Reference: Smith, T.J., McMahon, R., Whiteduck, T. (2017). An Open Source GIS and Mapping Methodology for Internet Access in Remote and Rural Indigenous Communities. First Mile Connectivity Consortium. February. 43 pages.

Abstract: In this report we discuss the efforts of the First Mile Connectivity Consortium (FMCC) to shape a Geographic Information System (GIS) platform into a tool for data-driven policy advocacy. This work took place in the context of a lack of robust, accurate data concerning broadband access in Canada’s northern and remote regions. Given this challenge, we sought to develop a transparent methodology to (re)present the limited existing statistical data on broadband access and affordability in maps of remote and Northern Indigenous communities in Canada. This was done to outline a GIS design process that we can adopt and adapt as more accurate data from these regions becomes available, as well as highlight and reflect on the design choices we made throughout this project.

 

Publication #85

Reference: Blake, S., McMahon, R. Williams, D. (2016). A Guide to Federal Funding for Indigenous Broadband in Canada. First Mile Connectivity Consortium. April. 44 pages.

Abstract: This guide provides an overview of active and historical broadband funding mechanisms provided by government departments and funding agencies at the federal level. We are presenting this information to support the accessibility of these funds for community-based organizations, and specifically for Indigenous organizations. Many of these funds are also available to private-sector entities. While telecommunications companies have an important role to play in broadband initiatives, the FMCC advocates for community-based Indigenous organizations to take a lead role in the decision-making leading to the administration of these funds, to support economic and community development in their member communities. To this end, this review is also intended to provide an overview of current and historical federal funding programs for broadband to support coordination efforts among funding agencies and the Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC).

 

Publication #84

Reference: Perley, D., O’Donnell, S., George, C., Beaton, B. & Peter-Paul, S. (2016). Supporting Indigenous Language and Cultural Resurgence with Digital Technologies. Fredericton: Mi’kmaq Wolastoqey Centre. University of New Brunswick, November.

Abstract: This report synthesizes knowledge about how digital technologies are supporting Indigenous language and cultural resurgence. The use of digital technologies supporting the transfer, preservation, sharing and protection of Indigenous languages and culture is evident in many innovative, exciting initiatives around the world. We focus in particular on knowledge, approaches and examples from Wabanaki territory where the authors are based. The report introduction begins by recognizing and honouring the unceded traditional territories of Wolastoqiyik within the Wabanaki Confederation as the place for the creation of this report as an essential initial step in positioning our work.

 

Publication #79

Reference: Beaton, B., McMahon, R., O’Donnell, S., Hudson, H., Whiteduck, T. & Williams, D. (2016). Digital Technology Adoption in Northern and Remote Indigenous Communities. Prepared for Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada. First Mile Connectivity Consortium. March.

Abstract: This report prepared by the FMCC team for Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) addresses research on digital technology adoption in remote and northern First Nation and Inuit communities. It summarizes the major elements of our project, including the literature review, identification of primary and secondary data sources, methodologies, strategies and research questions, and recommendations from our research. It includes six comprehensive appendices that are linked to the appropriate report sections and are available online.

 

Publication #46

Reference: McKenzie, O., Kakekaspan, C., Gibson, K., O’Donnell, S., Kakepetum-Schultz, T. (2012). Perspectives of Rural and Remote First Nation Community Members Toward Telehealth Services: The Case of Keewaytinook Okimakanak Telemedicine (KOTM). Reported presented at the Canadian Rural Health Research Society – Rural and Remote Health Research Conference – Creative Approaches, Levis, Quebec, October.

Abstract: This report and presentation is based on an online survey of K-Net email account holders in communities in Northwestern Ontario, conducted in November 2011, and their responses and perspectives toward telehealth services.

 

Publication #39

Reference: Beaton, B., Gibson, K., Kakekaspan, C., & O’Donnell, S. (2012). KO/K-Net Report: Survey of Community Connectivity Northwestern Ontario. Online presentation from Sioux Lookout, Ontario and Fredericton, New Brunswick, April 2012.

Abstract: This report and presentation is based on an online survey of K-Net email account holders in communities in Northwestern Ontario, conducted in November 2011.

 

Publication #38

Reference: Beaton, B., Kakekaspan, C., & O’Donnell, S. (2012). KO/K-Net Report: Survey of Connectivity in Keewaytinook Okimakanak Communities. Online presentation from Sioux Lookout, Ontario and Fredericton, New Brunswick, April, 2012.

Abstract: This report and presentation is based on an online survey of K-Net email account holders in KO communities, conducted in November 2011.

 

Publication #35

Reference: McMahon, R., O’Donnell, S ., Smith, R., Woodman Simmonds, J., Walmark, B. (2010). Putting the ‘last-mile’ first: Re-framing broadband development in First Nations and Inuit communities. Vancouver: Centre for Policy Research on Science and Technology (CPROST), Simon Fraser University, December.

Abstract: This report is from the First Mile project, a collaboration led by Simon Fraser University.The report paints a picture of First Nations and Inuit community-based broadband networks and information and communication technologies in Canada. It highlights the very different levels of broadband infrastructure and connectivity that exist across the country. Even at the end of the first decade of the 21st century, many of these communities remain unserved or underserved when compared to their neighbours in urban Canada. But despite a lack of abundant broadband infrastructure and robust connectivity services, in many cases these communities are planning, administering, managing and, sometimes, owning digital networks and technologies. They are also applying these technologies to deliver broadband-enabled public and community services in areas like health, education, government, culture and language. Despite decades of innovative, community based work in this area, to our knowledge this is the first comprehensive study and record of these activities.

This publication is also available in French #35-F.

 

Publication #27

Reference: Woodman Simmonds, J., Wasacase, T., Ward, S., O’Donnell, S. (2011). Videoconferencing User- Guide for Teachers and Students Participating in Post-Secondary Education Courses in Remote and Rural First Nations Communities. Fredericton: The VideoCom Project

Abstract: This user-guide is for teachers and students involved in post-secondary distance education (especially in remote and rural First Nations communities) who are considering using videoconferencing technology to communicate. It assumes that some people will have little or no experience with videoconferencing and might also have objections to the technology itself or to the ways it is often marketed as an absolute solution to accessing quality education.

 

Publication #26

Reference: Woodman Simmonds, J., Wasacase, T., O’Donnell, S. (2010). Post-Secondary Distance Education for First Nations, Métis and Inuit Learners Living in Remote and Rural Communities: An Annotated Bibliography. Fredericton: The VideoCom Project

Abstract: This report was prepared to assist educators and people involved in education and learning in First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities. It is, to our knowledge, the most comprehensive annotated bibliography available on this topic. The bibliographic search focused on literature that discusses 1) best practices employed in post-secondary distance education in First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities, 2) funding for post-secondary distance education, and 3) policy issues related to ICT in the First Nations and Inuit contexts. Our report includes both peer-reviewed publications and grey literature.

 

Publication #23

Reference: O’Donnell, S., Molyneaux, H., Gorman, E., Milliken, M., Chong, C., Gibson, K., Oakley, P., Maitland, J. (2010). Information and Communication Technologies to Support Health and Wellness in Remote and Rural First Nations Communities: Literature Review. Fredericton: National Research Council, May, 136 pages.

Abstract: This report is a comprehensive overview of how remote and rural First Nations and their partners and collaborators are using information and communication technologies (ICT) to support health and wellness in their communities. The report authors hope it will be useful for evidence-based program and policy development. It may also spark ideas about how ICT can be improved and new technologies developed to meet community needs.

 

Publication #3

Reference: Simms, D., O’Donnell, S., & Perley, S. (2008). Attitudes Toward and Use of Video Communications by Educators in First Nation Schools in Atlantic Canada. Fredericton: National Research Council. January.

Abstract: This NRC report presents the results of a survey of teachers and other staff in First Nation Schools in the Atlantic Region. The study focus was to understand their attitudes toward and use of video communications. The study identified a need for more support and training for teachers to use videoconferencing and share videos online.