The Faculty of Indigenous Knowledge, Education, Research and Applied Studies (IKERAS) has an opening for a Sessional Instructor during the Maymester (May 06-June 13) Session of 2024. This is being offered as an extension of IKE 2010 Mi’Kmaw Language as well as an optional elective for all UPEI students. This position is subject to final budgetary approval.

UPEI is recognized as a leading, innovative centre of excellence in learning, teaching, scholarship, and research. While it is strongly connected to the vibrant social and cultural environment of Prince Edward Island, it enjoys a reputation that extends far beyond the Island’s shores. The IKERAS faculty has strong ties to the local Indigenous communities on and off reserve.  Visit some of the vibrant local Indigenous organizations highlighted on our faculty website: https://www.upei.ca/faculty-of-indigenous-knowledge-education-research-and-applied-studies/indigenous-organizations

The University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) is located on Epekwitk, part of the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi'kmaw nation. This territory is covered by the Treaties of Peace and Friendship, which recognize Mi'kmaw title and establish the ongoing relationship between the Mi'kmaw nation and the Crown. We are all treaty people.

Please note: the course offered below will be taught in person, unless otherwise specified as an online course.

IKE 3090-1 – Global Indigenous Language and Cultural Ways of Knowing

This course will lead and facilitate a global Indigenous learning opportunity for ten Indigenous, Indigenous Minor, and Indigenous Ally undergraduate students from UPEI. Students will have the opportunity to learn from and share experiences with Indigenous peoples of New Zealand. During the fourteen-day faculty-led study tour, students will understand the distinctions and commonalities among Indigenous peoples worldwide by comparing their language and knowledge with that of the Māori people. The Māori perspectives, including language, history, social structures, leadership styles, practices, and epistemologies, will be studied by comparing and contrasting perspectives with those of the L'nuk (people) of Mi'kma'ki (territory). Students will also critique and examine how Eurocentric thought models have affected perceptions of Indigenous civilizations. Through workshops, seminars, and land-based teachings, the study tour will take students on a reflective and self-discovery journey that will prepare them to lead their communities as Indigenous leaders.
The course will be taught in person (May 6- May13) Evenings, with international travel (approx. May 19-June 3).

Qualifications: 

Successful applicants should have:

• A minimum master’s degree with avid interest in actively supporting students’ intellectual development and learning competencies in inquiry
• Lived experiences and connections with Epekwitk Mi’kmaq culture and traditions
• Historic knowledge of Turtle Island
• Cultural permission and training to lead a Full Moon Ceremony
• Current training in ALEAS
• Indigenous international traditional medicine and knowledge bundle experience
• Knowledge of Peace and Friendship Treaties
• Knowledge of the political framework of Epekwitk Indigenous communities
• Cross-continental knowledge of the traditional fine art of beadwork

Successful applicants must have a current, valid passport.

Candidates are required to state their Indigenous status in the application and proof of such is part of the hiring process.

Preference will be given to the qualified candidates with seniority on the UPEI Sessional Roster and full-time and term contract Faculty Members of the Academic unit.

Application Instructions:

Applicants should submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, research outline, and teaching dossier (e.g., teaching philosophy, teaching evaluations, previous syllabi). Candidates should also arrange for three letters of reference to be sent directly to the address below. Electronic submissions are encouraged. An application package including and addressing all of the elements listed above must be submitted electronically as a single PDF file to: 

Erin Reid, Interim Dean
Faculty of Indigenous Knowledge, Education, Research and Applied Studies (IKERAS)
University of Prince Edward Island
550 University Avenue
Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Canada C1A 4P3
E-mail: erreid@upei.ca

UPEI is committed to equity, diversity, inclusion, and reconciliation and believes in providing a positive learning and working environment where every person feels empowered to contribute. UPEI is committed to the principle of equity in employment and encourages applications from underrepresented groups including women, Indigenous peoples, visible minorities, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity, and others with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with diverse communities.

Closing date for applications is April 17, 2024; however, the competition will remain open until the position is filled.