9. Multiple Perspectives: An Orientation Resource for Queen’s Project on International Development Interns Working in Arviat (ᐊᕐᕕᐊᑦ), Nunavut with the Summer Camp Program

Abstract

In 2011-2012 I was the Site Director for Queen’s Project on International Development’s (QPID) summer development project in Arviat, Nunavut. The project involves QPID Interns and the Site Director assisting the Arviat community in the coordination of their summer camp program. During my time in Arviat, I collected data from a variety of sources to inform the creation of an orientation resource for future Queen’s students working with the summer camp program. I used a blog to document my observations, interactions with the community, daily activities at camp, and the progression of my adjustment and adaptation to my experiences both in the job and in the community. Interns Katie Joyce and Holly Smith contributed information about their thoughts and observations of the community and the camp program. Also, Shirley Tagalik and Wendy Savikataaq, both community members, contributed information on Arviat’s history and culture. Three objectives of this resource include: 1) to develop an encompassing orientation resource for QPID Interns consisting of guiding information on all aspects of the project using a variety of perspectives; 2) to provide consistency and sustainability for QPID’s involvement through creating knowledge documentation of the project; and 3) to develop and encourage cross cultural knowledge sharing between Arviat and Kingston. As a tool for knowledge sharing that provides guidance and encourages a growing understanding of the Arviat community, this resource will be given to QPID electronically so that it can be built upon and refined over time.