| Principal Investigator: | Beddoes, Colin (2) |
| Licence Number: | 13066 |
| Organization: | University of Calgary |
| Licensed Year(s): |
2000
1999
|
| Issued: | Jul 19, 1999 |
| Project Team: | self |
Objective(s): Many First Nations communities in the North possess a wealth of environmental and cultural knowledge accumulated over millennia. These same communities, almost without exception, are characterised by a lack of economic opportunity and related social and economic maladies. A growing demand for ecocultural tourism experiences centered upon indigenous knowledge and cultural heritage provides an opportunity to develop diverse, self-sustaining and culturally relevant sources of revenue for aboriginal communities. The objective of this study is to carry out a strategic analysis of the opportunities and constraints facing the Dene in their implementation of eco-cultural tourism.
Project Description: The objective of this study is to carry out a strategic analysis of the opportunities and constraints facing the Dene in their implementation of eco-cultural tourism. Transportation to and on site will be by automobile. Data collection will be carried out while working under the direction of planning staff at the Dene Cultural Institute (DCI). Data collection will involve non-structured interviews and may involve DCI developed questionnaires. Key informants will be asked questions about their experiences with the ecotourism policies and practices followed by their companies. Current challenges faced due to unique cultural, climatic, political, and ecosystem conditions will be investigated. Key informants will also be asked about approaches used to overcome these challenges, their effectiveness, and about trends and current issues related to the subject. Names, identities and opinions will remain anonymous unless specific permission to quote has been granted. Interviews may involve audio recording of the interview proceedings. Other means of recording (i.e, taking notes) will be undertaken if audio recording is objectionable to the respondent(s). All interview data will remain with the researcher and be kept secure and locked for a period of three (3) years, after which it will be destroyed. Signatures on consent forms indicate that respondents have understood to their satisfaction, the information regarding participation in the research project and have agreed to participate as subjects. In no way does this waive their legal rights nor release the investigators, sponsors, or involved institutions from their legal and professional responsibilities. Respondents are free to withdraw from the study at any time. Continued participation should be as informed as initial consent, so respondents are reminded that they should feel free to ask for clarification or new information throughout their participation. If they have further questions concerning matters related to this research, they are asked to contact: Colin Beddoes, Tel: (403) 247-2783, Fax: (403) 289 6205, E-mail: cgtbeddo@ucalgary.ca.
