Mount Royal University
AC-5: Immersive Experience

General Education GNED 3101 Experience to Change the World: Scotland Field School covers environmental sustainability and social and economic sustainability issues in National Parks. This field school was two weeks in length with additional learning prior to the field school as well as post field school.

Aboriginal Education Program:
The Aboriginal Education Program (AEP) is a University/College preparation program for students of Aboriginal ancestry. The program is designed to meet the needs of Indigenous students who are preparing to pursue a post-secondary education.

The AEP offers three levels of study designed for students requiring advanced upgrading with a concentration in math and English. These core subjects are supplemented with Aboriginal cultural courses, university preparation courses and post-secondary arts and science courses. All levels are supported by tutorial services, academic and personal advising, social events and visits from community members.

Objectives

- To help meet the educational needs of Aboriginal peoples
- To promote a culturally appropriate educational program which enhances the educational
experience of Aboriginal peoples
- To enhance cross-cultural understanding within an institutional setting
- To provide a positive learning environment which promotes success

The MEG Energy Summer Science Camp Program:
The MEG Energy Summer Science Camp is a program designed for Indigenous youth in grades 10 through 12 to have a first-hand experience in all science related fields in post-secondary. Our summer camp is hosted by the Aboriginal Science and Technology Education Program (ASTEP) and is supported by MRU science faculty, the Iniskim Centre staff and a great support team. The camp is hosted within the Iniskim Centre. The goal of ASTEP is to increase student interest into all MRU science programs and to have the resources when the youth are ready to enter post-secondary. The program seeks to introduce the youth to our MRU science advisors and professors who are the key sources to making all their aspirations come true. The science camp features MRU professors facilitating workshops for the youth to engage and to work in different labs throughout the campus. As well as to have advisors speak on behalf of MRU's offered science programs. For the stay of the camp, the youth are housed in MRU campus residence which provides them with a chance to experience student housing living.

Education is the key to a successful future and the Iniskim Centre acknowledges this. Another key to success is to involve as much of the Indigenous culture and traditions as possible. The youth are given the opportunity to have an elder speak with them and to engage in different cultural activities. Also, the camp is a mixture of various activities for the youth to participate in. The camp also features travels to science centers within the City of Calgary and and students get the chance to explore what the city has to offer. Day trips outside of the city are offered which provides students with a chance to experience the open roads of Alberta and it's attractions. There are recreational activities on the schedule and a chance for the youth to unwind from busy days. The camp is a great way to make connections and to make friends while learning.