Community-based Aboriginal training programs: A case study of heavy equipment training

This research investigates the training of Aboriginal people on heavy equipment and is approached narratively and interpretively. Currently, much reported experience and relevant literature reveal a discrepancy between "western" instructional training methods and models and the needs of Aboriginal learners. This research investigated if and how such discrepancy is experienced by Aboriginal people, and the degree to which any such discrepancies are perceived by non-Aboriginal arrangers and trainers. Eleven participants were interviewed. This group was made up of arrangers, trainers, and Aboriginal learners who have been involved in Aboriginal heavy equipment training initiatives.;This research contributes to the knowledge and literature about, and gives a voice to, Aboriginal learners' experiences and the experiences of arrangers and trainers of Aboriginal heavy equipment courses. Recommendations from the participants and myself are presented in an effort to provide useful information for further Aboriginal heavy equipment training initiatives.