A Deep Learning Journey
Mrs. Noble’s class at St. Brigid’s School took part in a powerful learning experience at the Royal Canadian Geographical Society, where students explored the Biinaagami Giant Floor Map of the Great Lakes–St. Lawrence watershed. This Deep Learning opportunity highlighted the journeys of the Anishinaabe Water Walkers and revealed how waterways, landscapes, and ecosystems are interconnected.
Through storytelling, hands-on exploration, and innovative technology, students deepened their understanding of the vital relationships between wildlife, people, and nature.
Exploring with Technology
The Biinaagami map featured twelve augmented reality experiences that used 3D visual storytelling to bring the Great Lakes to life. As students moved across the map, they discovered stories of the land and water shared by First Nations communities who have cared for these territories for generations.
Using tablets and smartphones, students immersed themselves in the experience, “swimming” with belugas, observing moose in their natural habitat, and following the journey of a Water Walker. They engaged physically with the map by walking, sitting, and studying its features while the augmented reality layer added new depth to their learning.
This interactive approach helped students connect to the natural world through both Indigenous perspectives and modern technology, fostering a deeper sense of reconciliation with the land and its communities.
Student Reflections
The experience left a lasting impact on students who shared their reflections:
I loved the visuals because they were interesting and rich in knowledge. They showed Indigenous culture and highlighted how we are losing our connection to the earth.
I learned that the watershed is vital for both animals and humans, showing how interconnected we all are and the importance of protecting our environment.
These reflections revealed the students’ growing understanding of environmental stewardship and cultural respect.
A Commitment to Learning and Reconciliation
The Biinaagami initiative represented more than an educational event. It was a meaningful step toward understanding our shared relationship with nature and Indigenous cultures. Through exploration, reflection, and curiosity, Mrs. Noble’s students demonstrated what it meant to learn with both the mind and the heart.
Their journey served as a reminder that reconciliation began with awareness, and that every lesson grounded in respect brought us closer to a sustainable and inclusive future.
To learn more about Biinaagami and our collective responsibility to the Great Lakes, visit biinaagami.org.
