PROJECTS
At the start of 2023, CIF Reconciliation Society, the Blackfoot Confederacy and KaleidOscope XR, teamed up to create a first of its kind language app: “Fingerprint”
In today's rapidly changing world, many Indigenous languages are at risk of disappearing, but we hope to change this with our AR app, using 360 immersive interactive content, and live facilitated storytelling to help children learn and preserve their ancestral languages.
“Fingerprint” AR App: Preserving Indigenous Languages through Augmented Reality Storytelling
Jan 2023 - Present
In a live online classroom, capable of accommodating 20 devices, this app enables whole families to participate from any remote location. The ease of access through just a cell phone or desktop makes it simple and convenient for families to use and learn together. Fingerprint honors the traditional Indigenous way of learning through oral culture, while also incorporating modern technology to enhance the experience.
The instructor needs little more than a cell phone and tablet to connect and interact with their class. The camera on their cell will capture the instructors who is turned into an avatar and the tablet is used to write content down in real-time. The app allows for two-way communication between the instructor and student, connecting the whole classroom in the journey.
One of the standout features of the app is the original artwork of, Blackfoot Artist, Kalum Teke Dan. With guidance from Elders through all phases of development we ensure the cultural teachings and design of the project are in line with traditions and protocols. While creating this app it has been of the utmost importance, to all involved, to show respect for the Blackfoot peoples, their culture, their history, their connection to the land and to their rich language, that is the heart of their way of life
The lessons transport students to stunning sacred sites to enhance the visuals of the land-based learning lessons. This unique combination of technology and tradition makes the learning process interactive and engaging for children, and parents alike.
(Okotoks Erratic, just one of many sacred Blackfoot locations in Alberta)
The Fingerprint AR app is a game-changer in the world of language preservation. It provides a fun and interactive way for children to learn their ancestral language, while honoring traditional Indigenous culture and storytelling.
It is our hope that this app will not stop with the Blackfoot language, but continue to develop in such a way, that all Nations, can use this as a tool to pass on their languages to future generations.
Sept 2022 - Present
Take ReconciliACTION!
One of our latest on going projects is our ReconciliACTION Passports. In 2022 we designed and began distributing pocket-sized Reconciliation activity passports for individuals and families to use. Each of these booklets includes 23 actions you can take to participate in reconciliation all through out the year.
If you are in the Calgary area, you can pick up passports from the Arts Commons box office, located at 205 8th Ave SE, beside Olympic Plaza and across the street from City Call. There is a suggested donation of $1 to cover the cost of printing.
For bulk quantities or inquiries other inquiries please contact us by email or phone
iOS Apps 2019 - 2020
Indigenous IOS Apps with Indigenous Youth - pilot
In 2019, CIFRS successfully obtained a Canadian Heritage grant to teach Indigenous youth to make IOS Apps in Indigenous languages.This pilot project was started in partnership with Stardale Women's Group's young Indigenous girls, Sozentech, Oli Siska and elder Joyce Healy. Stardale helped to organize getting the girls to the classes, and the meals that were served during the classes. Sozentech delivered classes to train the girls on how to do basic coding to develop colouring apps. Another component of the project was to offer Blackfoot language and culture classes delivered by Blackfoot elder and teacher Joyce Healy so that the apps could include Blackfoot language to assist with language revitalization efforst. These classes included learning language and also making ribbon skirts, dolls and other crafts.
Indigenous IOS Apps with Indigenous Youth - phase II
In 2020, CIFRS has applied for funding to continue this project to teach Indigenous youth how to make apps in Indigenous languages. This phase will be carried out in partnership with IndigeSTEAM and Red Iron Labs. IndigeSTEAM's mission is the provision of Indigenous-led and culturally-relevant programming to support a better future for Indigenous youth in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Lloyd Summers is Co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of Red Iron Labs. Lloyd has created and published over 200 mobile titles and games, and currently leads a development team that has executed over 30 immersive application projects. The language and cultural components will be offered in Blackfoot, Tsuut'ina, Stoney, Cree or Michif, depending on registration. We will also be offering the youth business training so that they can develop their own apps business.
