Aboriginal Ecotourism Training Program
Summer 2018 proved to be an excellent and new learning experience for me as the Work Integrated Learning instructor with the AETP learners. The AETP is a partnership learning experience with the Heiltsuk Tribal Council, Vancouver Island University, and North Island College. 14 learners from BC coastal indigenous communities studied tourism theory and practice in a truly experiential learning model.
Reflection:
“Tell us your story.”
As a fairly seasoned educator, I have taught learners aged 10 – 60 and from over 30 countries and typically, I can connect with most learners. However, my first few hours with the AETP learners had me stumped. I couldn’t seem to connect, find a common ground, earn respect and I was struggling.
Thankfully one of the mature learners in the class called me aside during a short break and in a calm and caring tone said, “Tell us your story.” The penny dropped, and thankfully it made sense. When we returned to class I shared my story, who I am, where I come from, who my family is and how I fit in the community and world. Suddenly, although I have no indigenous heritage at all, I was welcomed, connected and I felt a sense of family, even to the point where I eventually earned the nickname “grandpa.”
