Interested In Specific Claims Research But Unsure Where To Begin?


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The National Day of Action, June 29, 2007
UBCIC Collection


The Union of BC Indian Chiefs Research Department is now offering a FREE, fully interactive, self-paced introductory online specific claims research course for First Nations community researchers in British Columbia.

Specific claims result from the Government of Canada's outstanding legal obligations under treaties and the Indian Act related to Indian lands, resources, and entitlements.

The Specific Claims Research Course provides free, practical, and accessible research skills training for First Nations community members undertaking specific claims research projects but who have little or no experience of formal research methods.

Using clearly written examples and practical exercises, course participants will gain a working familiarity with specific claims research methods, accessing and reviewing archival documents, and procedures for filing a specific claim.

Course topics include:

  • Identifying specific claims
  • Distinguishing between different types of land claims
  • Canada's specific claims policy
  • Indian reserve creation history in British Columbia
  • Research planning and document management
  • Accessing key archival documents
  • Document analysis and report writing
  • Procedures for filing a specific claim

This course is right for you if:

  • You have a good grasp of computer operations and concepts
  • You are a community or staff member from a BC First Nation working on specific claims or lands related issues
  • You are new to specific claims research or wish to review archival research skills
  • You are able to dedicate approximately 20-30 hours to the course working at your own pace
  • You have high speed internet access and are able to listen to digital audio files online.

If you are interested in taking this course:

Explore the "Getting Started" chapter by clicking the tab at the top of this page.

  • The Course is now closed. Registration dates for the next course will be posted shortly.

Click "Apply for the Course" below to access the application page.