The University of Windsor is seeking to better understand the needs and best practices to support Indigenous students through the Aboriginal Education Centre Indigenous Student Experience, Recruitment & Enrolment Project.

With assistance from a third-party consulting company, Sisco Consulting, the University will host six online focus groups to gather input from students, staff, and faculty, and the Indigenous community. The purpose of the focus group is to gain input on how the University can enhance Indigenous student experiences.

“This research project represents the commitment of the University to respond to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s call to action to improve education attainment levels and success rates,” says associate vice-president academic, Jeff Berryman, who is supporting the Aboriginal Education Council’s work and will be interviewed for the study.

Berryman notes that this study “will enhance our understanding of the current barriers and provide a greater awareness of the needs of Indigenous students. The lessons and perspectives that will come from the research will inform a plan that supports Indigenous recruitment, retention, and student experience, and will be developed in consultation with the Aboriginal Education Council.”

The online focus group dates and times are as follows:

• Indigenous Students
  Wednesday, June 24, 6 to 7 p.m.
  Thursday, June 25, 3 to 4 p.m.
• Indigenous Faculty & Staff
  Wednesday, June 24, 3 to 4 p.m.
  Thursday, June 25, 6 to 7 p.m.
• Indigenous Community
  Tuesday, June 23, 6 to 7 p.m.
  Saturday, June 27, 10 to 11 a.m.

If you are interested in being a part of one of the focus groups, RSVP to Andie Albert at andie@siscoconsulting.ca.

This research project has received clearance from the University of Windsor Research Ethics Board.