Turtle Island Trials: Revitalizing Anishinaabemowin Through Gaming

Presented by Karl Hildebrandt

This interactive presentation introduces Manajiiwewin Mino Bemaadiziwin: Turtle Island Trials, a groundbreaking educational Fortnite Creative experience. Designed to revitalize Anishinaabemowin, this project meets modern learners where they are by embedding language acquisition directly into game mechanics.  Participants will discover how the game uses Input Hypothesis and spaced 

repetition to guide players through the four sacred directions of the Medicine Wheel. By interacting with spirit animal guides, students cumulatively acquire vocabulary, practice cultural protocols, and embody the Seven Grandfather Teachings to restore balance to the land.  Attendees will walk away with an actionable educator’s guide, customizable cross-curricular lesson plans (aligned with Manitoba curriculum), and assessment strategies. Learn how game-based learning can serve as a powerful vehicle for culturally sustaining pedagogy, truth and reconciliation, and community-led digital innovation.

• https://www.cbc.ca/player/play/video/9.7201427
• https://www.ctvnews.ca/winnipeg/article/how-fortnite-is-being-used-to-teach-and-preserve-indigenous-language-in-manitoba/