Coding on Country

We describe preliminary explorations with a format to engage young indigenous students from remote communities in design and making. Digital technologies are often seen, not without merit, as reflecting and embodying cultural values that are at odds with indigenous ways of learning. To overcome this we organised a 'Coding on Country' workshop. The workshop took place outdoors, at a culturally significant location, was embedded within cultural practices, as well as other mundane activities, and drew participation from young people as well as from Elders. Key insights are that activities that take place on country are also intrinsically about country and culture. A site of cultural significance can, better than a classroom, draw together younger and older community members, and offer a social centre which people can gravitate around while engaging in different activities. This contributes to reconciling technology and tradition, and offers opportunities to participate on one's own terms.