Distance university hires Aboriginal education manager

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The halls of Athabasca University resemble those of many other Canadian universities, with works of art adorning brick walls. The difference at this campus is that the halls are completely devoid of students. Athabasca University specializes in individualized distance education. For most people, this means earning credits through correspondence courses.

But according to Warren Kootenay, Aboriginal education manager at AU, "Aboriginal students perform better in a classroom setting." After recognizing the unique needs of Native students, the university's administration created Kootenay's position last September. He act's as liaison with Native groups and communities, researching the need for both certificate and degree programs in classroom settings before determining the best way for AU to get involved.

When a group contacts Kootenay, his first step is to meet with them to talk about post-secondary training. He brings his findings to the AU administration and they assess how to best serve the group. Lately, Kootenay has been working with the South East Development Corporation in Winnipeg. They are discussing a certificate program called Heal Development Administration.

AU's relationship with Native people goes back 25 years. The Blue Quills First Nations College near Saint Paul offers a band administration certificate, which is transferable to a degree program.

"Over a five-year period, the number of students enrolled in a classroom-setting course designed for people in Native communities has grown from 302 students in '92-'92 to 423 students in'95-'96," said Andy Delorme, research assistant for institutional studies. "The average student is registered for three courses."

"First Nations people want to have input into program development," Kootenay said. "By creating my position, Athabasca University has responded to their needs so that their goals in education are being achieved. My role is one of breaking down barriers, including those associated with institutions and geography,"

To help break down traditional institutional barriers, AU has an open admission policy. To enroll, students need only be 18 years or older, and have resident status in Canada. Admission to correspondence courses can take place year-round. The university has a commitment to co-ordinate its courses with other institutions and organizations.

"Native students need to have support," Kootenay said. By enrolling in programs in their own communities, Native students have a better chance of successfully completing their studies. Students living in remote locations have more options today through teleconferencing, video conferencing, computer use and the internet.