Research Assistant – Write to Read BC Project

312 Main Research Shop is a program within SFU CERi that facilitates collaboration between SFU graduate students and non-profit/community groups. It is focused on supporting research projects that provide plain-language answers to community-driven research questions at low or no cost to the community partner.

The Write to Read Project (W2R) in British Columbia is a collaborative project that aims to improve literacy by creating accessible libraries and learning centres in remote and Indigenous communities across the province. The centres provide books, computers, and internet access, which support both literacy development and digital skills, particularly among Indigenous youth and adults.

The Research Assistant will support an evaluation of the long-term impacts and community perspectives of the Write to Read BC Project. Working closely with Indigenous leaders, educators, and community members, this research will culminate in an assessment report that will guide the re-framing and Indigenization of the W2R Project.

• Community Collaboration and Data Collection

  • Collaborate with Indigenous leaders, educators, and community members to gather perspectives on the impact of active and inactive learning centres.

  • Conduct interviews, facilitate protocol-guided information-sharing sessions, and ensure respectful, ethical data collection.

  • Assist in developing “case stories” from selected communities, ensuring informed consent and cultural sensitivity.

  • Document and organize qualitative data to inform the final project report and analysis.

• Literature and Media Review

  • Conduct a literature review focusing on the intersections of Indigenous knowledge systems and colonial education practices.

  • Review and summarize "grey literature" and media related to the W2R project, including speeches, audio/video recordings, and planning documents.

  • Gather and analyze quantitative data on educational outcomes (e.g., K-12 graduation rates, post-secondary enrollment) in communities with W2R centres.

  • Identify gaps in the literature or data and recommend additional resources to address these gaps.

• Data Analysis and Reporting

  • Analyze qualitative and quantitative data to understand changes in community engagement, cultural connectedness, language revitalization, and educational impacts associated with W2R learning centres.

  • Assist in preparing interim reports, summaries, and visual presentations to share findings with project stakeholders.

  • Draft a final report, weaving Indigenous knowledge, community insights, and statistical data into a cohesive narrative.

  • Assist in developing recommendations for future iterations of W2R and strategies to support its ongoing sustainability and alignment with Indigenous sovereignty.

• Education: Graduate degree (MA or PhD) in Indigenous Studies, Education, Community Development, Anthropology, or a related field; candidates with Indigenous lived experience or community connections are encouraged to apply.

• Research Skills: Experience with community-based or participatory research methodologies, especially within Indigenous contexts. Strong qualitative and quantitative research skills.

• Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to synthesize complex ideas into accessible formats.

• Cultural Sensitivity: Knowledge of Indigenous protocols, respect for Indigenous sovereignty, and a commitment to ethical, community-led research.

• Organizational Skills: Ability to manage multiple tasks, adhere to timelines, and work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

• Familiarity with the BC education system and issues surrounding Indigenous educational equity.

• Experience working with Indigenous communities, particularly in rural or remote areas.

• Knowledge of Indigenous knowledge systems and community-led approaches to education and planning.

• Proficiency in data analysis software (e.g., Excel, SPSS) and qualitative analysis tools (e.g., NVivo, Atlas.ti).

• Please send a current CV, writing sample, and application form to Dr. Tara Mahoney, Research and Engagement Manager at SFU CERi: tmahoney@sfu.ca
• Candidates from equity seeking groups, including Black, Indigenous and racialized people, people facing accessibility barriers, and 2SLGBTQIA+ people and people from low-income backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. 
• Application Deadline: The closing date for applications is January 3, 2025.
• Application form link: https://forms.gle/FboCZyP5g5G2Ft6f6