Awareness and understanding of Indigenous Peoples : A study of Douglas College international students

Indigenous peoples of Canada, including First Nations, Métis, and Inuit, have played a crucial role in shaping the country’s history, culture, and identity. However, international students may have limited awareness of Indigenous communities due to differences in cultural backgrounds and educational experiences. Understanding their level of knowledge and the factors that influence it is essential for fostering cultural awareness and reconciliation. This study aims to assess the awareness, knowledge, and perceptions of international students at Douglas College regarding Indigenous peoples of Canada. The primary research questions focus on evaluating the level of knowledge international students have, identifying factors that influence their understanding (e.g., program of study, age, length of stay in Canada), and exploring effective ways to enhance their awareness. To investigate these questions, a descriptive survey will be conducted using a structured questionnaire distributed to a randomly selected sample of international students. The data will be analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests to examine relationships between demographic factors and knowledge levels. Proposal poster submission was sponsored by Instructor Ruhina Rana, (Health Sciences Department) and was presented at the New Westminster campus on April 10, 2025, for Student Research Days 2025.