We hope you can join us at OE Global 2023 this October, our first-ever conference to be organized by a community college, Norquest College, in Edmonton, Alberta, The region boasts the second-largest Indigenous population in Canada and is home to many First Nation communities represented by talented performers, artisans, musicians, and entrepreneurs. Embracing the theme of “Building a Sustainable World through Open Education”, the program has been developed through an Indigenous lens braiding together Norquest’s and OE Global’s values around diversity, agency, interconnectedness, decolonization, Indigenization, and the co-creation of shared values and relationships. It is also a carbon neutral event which is significant given how many are traveling from outside Canada.
“Our conference vision is one that celebrates the richness and wisdom of Indigenous knowledge, while simultaneously embracing the principles of open education and advocating for sustainability in every facet of life. We strive to offer conference attendees an array of learning opportunities, ranging from conventional presentations to immersive learning labs and captivating dance performances.
In addition to organizing some conference sessions using a typical thematic approach, we will also apply the concept of Indigenous braiding. In many local Indigenous cultures, particularly First Nations, braiding is a significant cultural practice with tremendous symbolic meaning, including the feeling of connectedness to the “creator, their ancestors, and the land,” (Monkman 2017). Applying the Indigenous concept of braiding, some sessions will interweave and braid together different tracks and sessions to capture the spirit of connection between subjects areas and create a more holistid experience.”
Darrion Letendre & Robert Lawson (Norquest College)
With over 200 sessions, keynotes from diverse perspectives, and social events at nearby venues, our members will also enjoy:
- 20% discount on registration
- A CCCOER gathering on Monday night