Faculty and staff from across MSVU marked the end of another successful academic year by joining in a celebration of teaching and learning on Friday, April 21, 2023.
The annual event is hosted by MSVU’s Teaching and Learning Centre. It spotlights a different aspect of teaching each year. This year’s event explored experiential learning at MSVU.
Experiential learning involves the application of academic content to real-world challenges or experiences and features reflection on those experiences. It’s everything from course-based activities and service learning initiatives to co-ops and practica. Based on the many examples featured, the event was an excellent reminder that experiential learning opportunities abound at MSVU across all faculties.
Attendees heard both student and professor perspectives on experiential learning through a joint presentation by Communication Studies assistant professor Dr. Ellen Shaffner and Public Relations student Claire Butler. They shared their experience with a recent senior seminar course that connected students in Public Relations and Communications with Black Student Support Advisor Randy Headley to host a special event on campus to mark the UN International Decade for People of African Descent. The well-attended event included music and spoken-word poetry performances, guest speakers, prizes and more.
A faculty panel featured other course-based examples of experiential learning from Dr. Maki Motapanyane (Women’s Studies), Prof. Normand Gendron (Business and Tourism), Dr. Jamie Leach (Child and Youth Study), and Dr. Columba Gonzalez-Duarte (Sociology and Anthropology).
Normand described a free tax-preparation service offered by accounting students for other MSVU students via the Canada Revenue Agency’s Community Volunteer Income Tax Program. Maki spoke about providing for a feminist pedagogical approach to experiential learning through service; students in Women’s Studies are matched for interest and suitability to provide targeted support to community organizations.
Kyla Friel of Career Services, together with Krista Steeves, Regional Associate Director – Atlantic Region for CEWIL Canada (or Co-operative Education & Work Integrated Learning Canada), reminded attendees about funding available to support curricular work-integrated learning opportunities for students (i.e. opportunities that count towards an academic program/credential or professional designation). Faculty can submit applications for CEWIL funding until June 7, 2023; contact kyla.friel@msvu.ca for more information.
The Teaching and Learning Centre at MSVU supports departments, faculty, staff and administration in the development, delivery, and advancement of inclusive and accessible learning opportunities.
We’re transforming teaching and learning. Learn more about this MSVU Strategic Plan Theme.