Base de données de recherche des TNO

Régions: Dehcho Region

étiquettes: social sciences, physical activity, community response, public awareness, swimming

Description du projet: Since its inception in 1967, the NWT Aquatics Program has brought aquatic leaders from southern Canada to Canada’s north to teach northern residents the importance of southern-based understandings of physical activity and water safety. In an effort to decrease high drowning rates, seasonal shallow water swimming pools were built inside NWT curling rinks and skating arenas, and waterfront areas were designated. Nevertheless, the storied past of the NWT Aquatics Program which, at its peak, operated in thirty-one NWT communities, has escaped academic scrutiny and remains relatively unknown. Hence, an examination of the NWT Aquatics Program is required not only so other programs can learn from its successes in terms of encouraging young northerners to be physically active in and safe around water, but also to address the program’s shortcomings. This research project will employ semi-structured interviews and archival research to gain understanding into the role that Dene cultural knowledge can play in enhancing water safety and physical fitness in aquatic settings. Interviews will be conducted with the assistance of a local interpreter, if necessary. Approximately, twenty individuals, consisting of youths and adults, will be interviewed. Interviewees will be asked for their views about the NWT Aquatics Program and the impact of Dene culture on aquatics activities. Interviews will audio-taped, transcribed, and returned to interviewees for verification. A plain language, bi-monthly newsletter will be created to keep community members abreast of research developments. In addition, articles about the research project will be submitted to regional and territorial newspapers (e.g., the Drum, News/North) at least twice during the calendar year. The researcher will also return to the community to present the findings of the study. The community will also receive copies of all publications pertaining to and developed from the research. The study will be conducted from June 1-30, 2006 within the municipal bounds of the Village of Fort Simpson.