I am a linguistic anthropologist focusing on language education and Indigenous language revitalization. Born and raised in amiskwaci/Edmonton, Alberta, I graduated from MacEwan University in 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts with distinction in Honours Anthropology. My Honour’s thesis developed out of ethnographic research I conducted in a post-secondary level nêhiyawêwin (Plains Cree) language class, and with it I explored how Indigenous language classes may contribute to the goals of language revitalization in ways more nuanced than simply increasing speaker numbers. Joining the Department of Anthropology in 2020 to pursue research in language pedagogy and the decolonization of educational institutions, I intend to use my time at UBC to gain a better understanding of how institutionalized ideologies about language influence teaching practices, assessments, and the development of curricula goals. My hope is to contribute to work exploring how current language pedagogy may be innovated and adapted to better serve the needs and goals of minoritized students and their communities.

Research Key Words: Language Revitalization, Anthropology of Education, Multilingualism, Literacy Studies, Translanguaging, Biliteracy, Decolonization, Media, the State, Canada, Citizenship, Identity

Research Summary:

My master’s research is situated in the context of language and literacy education for families who have recently immigrated to Canada and are learning English as a Second Language together in a classroom environment. Working alongside instructors and beginner-level English language learners, I will inquire into how instructors may negotiate between both national and institutional educational policies and standards while striving to provide effective language instruction that is relevant for their students’ specific needs. Particular focus will be placed on how instruction may draw upon the unique strengths, experiences, and linguistic abilities students bring with them into the classroom, as well as the types of media that instructors and students may utilize inside and outside of the classroom to facilitate learning. In addition to understanding the effectiveness of current pedagogical practices within this classroom, I will inquire into the role that this classroom may play in cultivating a community of support for students as they adjust to their new home in Canada.

MA Supervisor: Dr. Mark Turin

Committee Member: Dr. Amir Shiva

• Joseph Armand Bombardier Canada Graduate Scholarship-Master’s
• Outstanding Graduating Anthropology Student Awards 2020, Canadian Anthropology Society