Encouraging Alaska Native Participation in Computing

University Of Alaska Fairbanks Campus, Fairbanks AK

Investigators

Abstract

The University of Alaska, Fairbanks (UAF) proposes a project to encourage Alaska Native student participation in computing. The proposal builds on well-documented evidence that the learning styles and educational goals of Alaska Natives differ from traditional "western" computing students, and that current programs do not effectively meet their needs. The PIs will create a supportive ecosystem - based on extending existing relationships - through which students, advisers, faculty, industrial partners, mentors, families, and the organization structures that support them work together towards the goal of increasing the participation of Alaska Natives in computing. The approach is founded upon four keys to success: developing the students' disciplinary knowledge, helping student develop their identity with respect to the field of computing, establishing processes by which the students move through the institutional contexts of their computing education, and contributing through which the students can return to their home communities and share their knowledge. Activities will include needs assessment, outreach, modifications to course delivery mechanisms, faculty training, increased course offerings, and augmentation of transition programs.