Research Scope and Limitations

There are a few key areas that I feel contributed to boundaries and limitations of the research. First and foremost, the lack of reliable statistical data is astounding. Drost and Richards (2003) described how “Other reserves and settlements were enumerated late or the quality of the data collected there was considered inadequate.… The magnitude of the potential bias resulting from such under remuneration is unknown” (p. 21). This topic was fascinating to research, but there are clearly areas where insufficient research has been done.

Another limitation of this project was the lack of inclusion of EC’s from even more remote regions farther north in the province. Research indicated the problems are only worse as one travels north and special consideration will need to be given when designing additional research methodologies for these communities. In addition to remote areas, there was not sufficient space in this project to accurately capture the employer’s point-of-view regarding Aboriginal employment and retention. It will be important to include the employer’s perspective when establishing team efforts to address employment programs in rural and northern Manitoba.

Summary

Going through the data time and again assured me that this project did indeed capture the voices of the EC through asking the question, “How can Employment Counsellors [ECs] in rural and northern regions best be supported to enhance their effectiveness in helping clients with multiple barriers achieve job success?” Sub-questions included:

1. What stories do ECs in rural and northern regions tell about their successes with clients?
2. What employers and community agencies are available and most often effective in providing the needed services for Aboriginal employment seekers in rural and northern regions?
3. What elements of the employment systems for rural and northern ECs are the most helpful in making the Counsellor feel more effective?

The research findings presented a great basis from which to answer the questions. Overall, the ECs have several partners who can impact the effectiveness of their roles and the findings and conclusions are presented in relationship to these stakeholders and their responsibilities for change. Findings related to the first sub question revealed that Aboriginal job seekers succeeding have a direct relationship between a longer term intervention and their own personal commitment. The second sub question aligned clearly with the results and identified a lack of resources and supports including available employment and social services to support the ECs job in the rural and Northern communities. Sub question number three was answered through extensive suggestions for more human resource tools to support the EC’s development, and in particular, a Provincial standards process is needed to address retention and training issues.