Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2018 - FNST 101 D100

Introduction to First Nations Studies (3)

Class Number: 5398

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 4 – Dec 3, 2018: Wed, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 12, 2018
    Wed, 3:30–6:30 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Introduces the nature and goals of First Nations Studies as an academic discipline that emphasizes cultures and homelands of First Peoples. Breadth-Humanities/Social Sciences.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course introduces the First Nations peoples of Canada from all provinces and regions. Class lectures is structured around introducing each regions’ ancient past, recent history and contemporary issues. Themes covered include  

  1. Indigenous logic and the diversity of thought and practice
  2. Ecological relationships
  3. Major historic and political events and relevance to modern concerns
  4. Legal precedents (judicial, federal, and provincial)
  5. Sovereignty and Self-determination
  6. Colonization
  7. Food security
  8. Spirituality
  9. Civil rights
  10. Social and environmental justice

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

An introduction to the nature and goals of First Nations Studies as an academic discipline; survey of prehistory, traditional cultures and Aboriginal languages of Canada’s First Nations. The content includes an examination of historical and contemporary concerns, and pays special attention to concepts of First Nations identity, oral histories, gender roles, aesthetic expressions and justice. It also investigates the relations between First Nations and other Indigenous peoples of North America.

Grading

  • Paper Proposal and Outline 10%
  • Midterm 30%
  • Short Paper (4 pages) 20%
  • Final Exam 40%

NOTES:

Paper Proposal and Outline and Final Paper:    The term paper is where students will research a specific topic of their choice upon approval of the instructor and/or the TA.  All papers must show research using published sources, and consider and Indigenous perspective. Further details will be discussed in class.

General Notes:
  1. Any assignment handed in late will receive a 5% per day penalty
  2. Electronic devices are discouraged in class
  3. No recording of instructor except for documented cases of special accommodations.
  4. Deferred grades will be given only on the basis of authenticated medical disability.  
  5. Students requiring accommodations as a result of a disability must contact, in advance, the Centre for Students with Disabilities at 778-782-3112 or csdo@sfu.ca.
  6. Please check SIS on the first day of this course to confirm classroom assignment.
  7. On occasion, announcements will be sent from first_nations@sfu.ca to your SFU Connect email.

Department of First Nations Studies: www.sfu.ca/fns. Saywell Hall 9091.

This outline last updated:  May 29, 2018



REQUIREMENTS:

In addition to completing assignments, attendance of all lectures is required.

Course Protocol:   This course is made up of illustrated lectures with little text on lecture slides. Students are responsible to know and understand all lecture material (it is highly recommended you take notes!), including visual images, items from class discussions, and all terms from course readings as outlined in this syllabus and as supplied by the instructor.    Please note, to accommodate the complexities inherent in life, this syllabus is subject to modification in order to meet student needs and interests.  Students are responsible to remain informed at all times.  

MANDATORY:  You must access your SFU email and Canvas  NO EXCEPTIONS!!!

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

None

REQUIRED READING:

In lieu of a textbook, readings will be available in SFU CANVAS and on Library Reserve.

A reading list will be provided on the first day of classes or posted online.  

Readings may also be provided/presented in class.

RECOMMENDED READING:

None

Department Undergraduate Notes:

  1. Deferred grades will be given only on the basis of authenticated medical disability. 
  2. Students requiring accommodations as a result of a disability must contact the Centre for Students with Disabilities at 778-782-3112 or csdo@sfu.ca.
  3. Remember to check the Student Information System (SIS) at the start of the term to reconfirm your classroom location(s).
  4. All students are expected to read and understand SFU policies with regard to academic honesty and student conduct (S10).
    These policies are available at: http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student.html
  5. On occasion, announcements will be sent from first_nations@sfu.ca to your SFU email.


Department of First Nations Studies- Contact Info:
Webpage: www.sfu.ca/fns.
Phone: 778-782-4774
General Office: Saywell Hall (SWH) Room 9091. Burnaby Campus. (M-F, 09:00-16:30 Hrs.)
Academic Advisor's Office: SWH 9089.


For general information, program information, academic advising (appointment or program check-up; enrollment assistance*): Please email fnstmgr@sfu.ca.

* Students: When submitting a request or an inquiry, please email from your SFU Mail (@sfu.ca) email and remember to include your SFU Student ID number in your email. Thank you.


Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS