NWT RESEARCH DATABASE

Regions: North Slave Region

Tags: museum, social sciences, anthropology, dene culture

Objective(s): To gain a general understanding of the exhibitions; how the relationship was established, the final exhibition layout, composition and content at the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre in Yellowknife; and to determine if there were lasting results from the long term project, and what those results might be.

Project Description: The objectives of this research project are to: 1) gain a general understanding of the exhibitions; how the relationship was established, the final exhibition layout, composition and content at the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre (PWNHC) in Yellowknife; 2) learn about the roles of specific individuals and their experiences with the museum in Scotland; 3) better understand community and curator goals when putting on the exhibition; and, 4) determine if there were lasting results from long term project, and what those results might be. The principal investigator will be conducting semi-structured interviews. The principal investigator plans to begin this research with individuals who worked directly with the museums, either as curators or advisory members. A "snowball technique" will then be used to recruit other interested individuals. Interview techniques, length and recording will vary according to the wishes of the participant. The principal investigator expects interviews to last between 20 minutes to 1 hour, and with permission will be recorded by audio transcripts or notes taken during or after the interview, depending on the wishes of the individual. Educational opportunities will include; reflecting on the experience working with the National Museums Scotland, a detailed study of the current display of the Tlicho materials at the National Museums Scotland,and a presentation to PWNHC staff or public on research, and research findings. The principal investigator will also offer to visit the Tlicho schools in Behchokö` (Elizabeth Mackenzie Elementary School) and Edzo (Chief Jimmy Bruneau High School) to talk with students about the Tlicho collection at the National Museums Scotland, or similar subject. All interview participants will have access to interview transcripts or notes, and the principal investigator will be in contact with them to verify any direct quotes prior to submission of the dissertation. At the conclusion of this work, in addition to giving out the completed dissertation, the principal investigator will be completing short reports for the National Museums Scotland and any other interested individuals or organizations. These reports will answer any specific questions and offer summaries of the findings. The fieldwork for this study will be conducted from October 7, 2013 to October 18, 2013.