Education | August 2017

THURSDAY, AUGUST 3, 2017

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‘‘ When students choose

the University of Winnipeg, they are setting themselves on a path to making an impact in their areas of passion and interest. If they have the interest and drive, the opportunities are here.”

THE UNIVERSITY OF WINNIPEG

UWINNIPEG STUDENTS CAN BE PART OF RESEARCH WITH IMPACT At the University of Winnipeg, bright minds solve mysteries, test theories, and discover new ways to address real-world issues — from climate change and brain malfunction, to workplace bullying and urban homelessness. And UWinnipeg students get an up-close view of — sometimes even a chance to take part in — fascinating research that has the potential to profoundly benefit society.

“The opportunity to participate in meaningful research at an undergraduate level, while working closely with our exceptional faculty members, is a defining trait of the UWinnipeg student experience,” says Dr. Annette Trimbee, President and Vice-chancellor. “When students choose the University of Winnipeg, they are setting themselves on a path to making an impact in their areas of passion and interest. If they have the interest and drive, the opportunities are here.” This summer, UWinnipeg’s Dr. Richard Westwood and students from the environmental studies & sciences and biology programs are engaged in a research project with the City of Winnipeg’s Urban Forestry Branch. The researchers will identify and prioritize the early removal of brood trees — a technique that could significantly aid the city’s battle against Dutch Elm disease, slowing the loss of Winnipeg’s much-loved elm trees. The new Indigenous Summer Scholars Program launched in June, providing an opportunity for outstanding Indigenous students to spend eight weeks researching projects ranging from clean water on First Nations to using art and digital media to create new dialogues in Canada. Each student is paired with a faculty member involved in Indigenous research and has a paid position to assist while learning new academic skills. The program strengthens pathways for Indigenous students to move

into advanced study and, ultimately, into leadership in the academy and in all sectors of society. Eight students are taking part in the pilot — including Francine Laurin, who is assisting Dr. Ian Mauro, investigating opportunities to engage Indigenous communities and contribute to the Prairie Climate Atlas. At the recent Canadian Chemistry Conference and Exhibition in Toronto, a contingent of UWinnipeg chemistry students was recognized for presentations on a range of topics —an outcome related to their hands-on research experience. “Our undergraduate students play an integral role in various chemistry research programs,” said Dr. Athar Ata. “The chemistry professors train them in the lab and encourage them to take the lead on their assigned research projects. These efforts result in award-winning presentations by students at prestigious conferences such as CSC.” Meanwhile, UWinnipeg has, to date, launched 53 experiential learning projects across a range of departments. Experiential learning — an engaged and interactive method of discovery — is a key component of academic excellence and a strong priority at UWinnipeg. These impactful initiatives focus on areas such as ethnobotany, food history, environmental studies, and outdoor recreation. Learn more at uwinnipeg.ca. ❚

Cory Aronec Photography

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Students in many MITT programs — including Graphic and Print Technician and Business Administration Assistant — can be job-ready in just 10 months. MITT photos

MANITOBA INSTITUTE OF TRADES AND TECHNOLOGY

JOB-READY AT MITT By Todd Lewys for the Free Press Whether you’re a high school student looking to launch your first career or want to start a new one, Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology (MITT) is dedicated to helping you build your future.

‘‘ The printing industry is the fourth-largest industry in Manitoba, so the demand for skilled, dependable employees is there.”

Not only do 90 per cent of MITT graduates find work in their field of study within six months, but students in many programs — including Graphic and Print Technician and Business Administration Assistant — can be job-ready in just 10 months. “We’ve been running our program successfully for 35 years,” says Jan Hamilton, longtime Graphic and Print Technician instructor. “Prior to 2014, the program was known as Production Art. At that time, we received $2.2 million [in federal funding through Western Economic Diversification Canada], bought new equipment and changed our name. An already excellent program got that much better.” With the infusion of brand-new, cutting-edge equipment, starting with a new Apple Mac computer lab, this hands- on program in which students perform real work for real clients now features the latest and greatest tools of the trade. “Students learn to run all sorts of sophisticated equipment. They take projects from concept on the Macs all the way to pre-press and printing, right up to big printing presses. They learn about flexographic and lithographic presses, wide-format digital, and how to cut, fold, stitch and score.” Hamilton says the course — which is project-based — is intensive, to say the least. “It’s a jam-packed, fast course that calls for lot of work in a short period of time, but the payoff is that you complete it in 10 months.” Contrary to popular opinion, the print industry isn’t dead, says Hamilton. Rather, it’s evolved. “It’s moved to different areas, such as packaging, vehicle (advertising/promotion) wraps, highway signs, billboards and more — the industry is still alive and well,” she says. “Career prospects are good. For an investment under $5,000, students can enjoy a good, rewarding career for putting in 10 months of hard, focused work.” Likewise, students in the Business Administration Assistant (BAA) Program can also be ready to look for employment in less than a year, says program co-ordinator Bev Kufley-Rozak. “We can have you job-ready to find work in a wide variety of business settings from schools to insurance agencies, universities, government, investment agencies, youth

employment and more,” she says. “Graduates can find work as an administrative assistant, human resources co-ordinator, in data entry or as a bookkeeper.” Demand for administrative professionals is high as are employers’ expectations. To meet these ever-changing needs, MITT works collaboratively with industry to ensure its graduates bring the most in-demand skills to the workforce. “Not only does the program equip students with excellent verbal and written communication skills, in- depth knowledge of administrative office procedures and computer software applications (for example, Microsoft Office and QuickBooks) and additional skills in business correspondence and social media,” says Kufley-Rozak. “Just as importantly, students learn critical soft skills in areas such as problem solving, teamwork, multi- tasking and working under pressure. It’s a focused, practical program that equips students with essential business skills.” Once students in both programs are equipped with the knowledge and tools required to excel in a real- life business setting, they are then sent out to various workplaces for practicums. Placement for the Graphic and Print Technician Program is four weeks, while Business Administration Assistant Program students spend six weeks in training. “If they work hard and do well, graphic and print technician students can expect a 100 per cent chance of employment,” says Hamilton. “The printing industry is the fourth-largest industry in Manitoba, so the demand for skilled, dependable employees is there.” Kufley-Rozak said the practicums represent a great opportunity for students. “They not only get to apply their skills and experience the business world, but the practicums also create networking opportunities,” she says. “If you prove your worth during the practicum, there’s a good chance you’ll land a job, or be able to get a reference that may lead to finding work with another business. There are all kinds of opportunities out there for students that offer employers so many practical skills.” To find out how MITT can help you build your future, visit mitt.ca or call 204-989-6500. ❚

We Build Success Employers want trained workers with skills ready to go. That’s why we provide innovative, real-world education and it’s no accident our grads have over 80% placement rates in their fields within 6 months. Our flexible and modern approach, with over 30 programs designed with industry in mind and our award-winning instructors...give MITT training the edge. Success for our students and their employers is our #1 goal.

Industry Driven. Student Focused.

*Based on 2015 & 2016 student surveys.

mitt.ca

info @ mitt.ca

204.989.6500

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Robertson College offers 22 online programs and certificates in disciplines including business, health and information technology. Robertson College photo ‘‘ Most of our students are also working at the same time. They’re still able to manage their family lives and spend time with their children. That’s one of the biggest benefits — it’s very accessible to most people and they can have a new career in less than a year.”

ROBERTSON COLLEGE

FLEXIBLE LEARNING

interview preparation, job search techniques and working with employers.” Robertson College’s online students come all from across the country, with about 60 per cent in Alberta, 35 per cent in Manitoba and five per cent nationwide, including the Maritimes and the North. About 60 per cent of the online students live in urban centres while the other 40 per cent live in rural communities. “We have an industry-related expert instructor for each of our courses within the programs. Students need to find about 20 hours a week to dedicate to their program. If they can find about three hours a day, they’ll do really well,” Nevin says. “Most of our students are also working at the same time. They’re still able to manage their family lives and spend time with their children. That’s one of the biggest benefits — it’s very accessible to most people and they can have a new career in less than a year.” In addition to offering online courses to students in every province and territory, Robertson College also provides courses in person at campuses in Winnipeg, Calgary and Edmonton. “We have a big campus in Winnipeg. It’s one of the largest private schools in Canada with 1,200 students a year and 650 to 700 students at any one given time,” Nevin says. “Most of the programs that are offered online are also offered on ground, but there are some unique ones to each option as well. All of our admissions staff can help with both options.” The main Winnipeg campus is located at 265 Notre Dame Ave., where different programs are spread over five storeys. Then at a second campus, located at 433 Main St., Robertson College spans two floors to offer programs in business and much more. For more information or to enrol in a Robertson College program, visit roberstoncollege.com or email info@ robertsoncollege.com. You can also call 204-943-5661 for the Notre Dame campus, 204-943-5661 for the Main Street campus or 1-855-333-9319 for online education. ❚

By Jennifer McFee for the Free Press

When you enrol in a program at Robertson College, you have the option of pursuing post-secondary education from the comfort of your own home. In total, Robertson College offers 22 online programs and certificates in a range of disciplines that include business, health and information technology. With a finger on the pulse of the workplace, the college strives to adapt to each industry’s ever-changing needs so it’s always updating its offerings. “We never sit still with these programs,” says Geoff Nevin, director of marketing. “They’re constantly evolving to make sure that they match with what employers are looking for.” Keith McConnell, director of the online campus for Robertson College, outlines some of the more recent enhancements to its programs. “In the business area, we have expanded our administrative professional and our bookkeeping programs,” he says. “We also have a new digital marketing program that’s just launched and we have a very strong community support worker program. In addition, we’ve just launched a revised format to three of our IT programs.” With a focus on flexibility, Robertson College offers 10 continuous intake opportunities for students to start the programs during most months of the year. “We’re starting to see significant growth, and the key reason for that is the continuous intakes and the fact that our students are career-ready in less than a year,” McConnell says. “They’re supported with a comprehensive program that also helps them with their job search. We provide those services to our alumni for life. We help them with resumé writing,

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Ali Wood-Warren is advising services co-ordinator at the University of Manitoba’s University 1 First Year Centre. Photo by Darcy Finley

THE UNIVERSITY OF MANITOBA

BALANCE VITAL FOR FIRST-YEAR SUCCESS

“Checking in with an academic advisor in first year is really important. Having the support of an advisor can make such a huge difference,” Wood-Warren says. Another invaluable resource for first-year U of M students is the Student Life office. Located in University Centre, it connects newcomers with other more experienced students and offers them numerous learning and personal growth programs including peer mentorships, leadership development and volunteer opportunities. “We know that students who are engaged in their academic community are more likely to be successful,” Wood-Warren says. “Providing opportunity to connect with other students creates a sense of community which is a key factor to a student’s success.” While meeting with a professor might be an intimidating prospect for many first-year students, it doesn’t have to be. In fact, a prof can be a student’s most powerful ally, says Wood-Warren, and engaging with them can help students prevent their academic year from spiralling out of control. “Don’t let things get away from you. It can happen pretty quickly,” she says. “It’s just good practice to keep up on your studies. Cramming doesn’t work, especially when you have a full course load, which can require the same number of hours as a full- time job.” Even if you think you already know which area of study you want to specialize in, Wood-Warren suggests it’s a good idea for first-year students to remain open to other possibilities rather than piling all their academic eggs in one basket. “Have a goal in mind but be flexible,” she says. “If it doesn’t work out the way you thought it would, that’s OK.” As important as it is for first-year students to focus on their studies, Wood-Warren cautions that they shouldn’t forget about themselves. That means finding the right balance between school, family, a healthy social life and work. “It’s important to find a balance. If you like to play hockey, play hockey. If you like dance, do that. You can’t just shut everything else out. You can’t just not talk to your friends or go to a movie. You’ve got to find a balance that works for you.” ❚

By Jim Timlick for the Free Press

You don’t have to be a Rhodes Scholar to understand there is a learning curve when starting university or college. Not only do you have to adjust to a new school, new teachers and whole new set of academic standards, there’s also the challenge of developing a new social network and trying to squeeze in a little “you” time. The transition from high school to university can be so tough, in fact, that a study conducted by the Canadian Organization of University and College Health suggests almost 90 per cent of students will feel overwhelmed at some point during their post- secondary studies. You won’t get any argument on that count from Ali Wood-Warren, advising services co-ordinator at the University of Manitoba’s University 1 First Year Centre. Apart from graduation, Wood-Warren says first year is probably the most stressful time for most university students. “Making that transition from high school to university can be overwhelming for some students,” she says. “You are in a different environment and it can be hard to find a familiar face. “Expectations are also quite a bit different from those in high school. A typical first-year student in university will be in class for 12-15 hours a week. But the expectation is that for each hour in class they will need to study on their own for two or three hours. Students often underestimate the workload.” But don’t despair, Wood-Warren says. There is plenty of help available to assist students in coping with the challenges they may encounter during their first year of studies. One of the most valuable resources available to new students is an academic advisor. Advisors are available to assist students to explore and clarify goals, make choices about programs and courses, while considering students’ interests and strengths.

‘‘ Don’t let things get away from you. It can happen pretty quickly. It’s just good practice to keep up on your studies. Cramming doesn’t work, especially when you have a full course load, which can require the same number of hours as a full-time job.”

And they’re registering now for September courses. Visionaries never stop learning.

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CMU specializes in the liberal arts, offering 16 bachelor of arts majors. The university has distinguished itself in the sports of volleyball, basketball and soccer. CMU photos

CANADIAN MENNONITE UNIVERSITY

EXPAND YOUR WORLDVIEW AT CMU

Ont., was one of those individuals who took classes at CMU out of interest without a goal of earning a degree. She took several courses at CMU in 2002 and still speaks enthusiastically of her education. “CMU didn’t give me the answers. It taught me how to ask questions,” says Schmidt. “Even just that short time there definitely had the desired effect and has had a lasting impact on the way I think.” This year, CMU is offering several new courses. Consumption and Desire, which Kilbrei describes as a course straddling theology and sociology, examines human motivations. Psychology of Social Change looks at the effect of social change on the human mindset. Another new course — especially relevant these days — is Citizenship, Land and Economics, which examines Canadian identity, reconciliation and environmental sustainability. On the science side, the university is offering Molecular and Cellular Lab Methods, a lab- based course. As a smaller university, CMU offers students plenty of hands-on instruction and practical experience. CMU also prides itself on its faculty-student ratio, with one faculty member for every 18 students. And 90 per cent of their faculty members hold PhDs. “This means students benefit from smaller class sizes, even in introductory courses which are typically larger at other universities, and their instructor usually has a PhD,” says Kilbrei. CMU has a long-established reputation for its excellent music programs, and the university is expanding in this area as well. This fall, they look forward to debuting their concert band, a response to the popularity of high school band programs in Canada. “This is something our music department is quite excited about,” says Kilbrei. Uniquely, the band will be open to students and community members, who can audition for spots now. The band will begin rehearsing in September. Cheryl Ferguson, Director of Bands at Fort Richmond Collegiate and a French horn instructor at CMU’s Community School of Music and the Arts, will direct the Concert Band. “She’s quite a star in the music community,” says Kilbrei. CMU also makes time to focus on athletics, and CMU has enjoyed great success with their teams. The university has distinguished itself in volleyball, basketball and soccer. Once again, CMU’s small campus comes to its advantage, as students typically have more opportunities to play rather than riding the bench. For more information, visit CMU.ca ❚

By Kathryne Cardwell for the Free Press

Founded in 2000, Canadian Mennonite University (CMU) offers a place for students from a variety of backgrounds to access one of the best educations in the country. “CMU draws students and instructors from across the world,” says Kevin Kilbrei, Director of Communications and Marketing at CMU. “Because of our Christian Anabaptist roots, we’re known for our positions in social justice, equality, service and now our commitment to the Truth and Reconciliation principles.” CMU is an accredited member of Universities Canada and provides high-quality education in a range of fields. While most know CMU as a faith-based institution, the university’s diverse and interesting courses, great student-professor ratio and welcoming campus have earned their reputation for excellence. That reputation draws people of all faiths — or none. Of CMU’s approximately 600 students, 46 per cent declare Mennonite or Anabaptist backgrounds, 42 per cent declare another Christian background and 12 per cent declare no faith background. “There are people who use CMU as a vehicle to expand their worldview,” says Kilbrei. CMU also boasts a high population of students from outside Manitoba — about 20 per cent come from outside Manitoba, including over 10 per cent from outside Canada. CMU specializes in the liberal arts, offering 16 bachelor of arts majors such as environmental science, biology, counselling, communications and media, peace and conflict transformation, mathematics and others. They also offer degrees in business administration, music and musical therapy. Students can also pursue graduate and pre-professional studies and cross-cultural experience programs. Some of CMU’s biggest strengths are its unique course offerings, which appeal to more people than their regular degree-seeking students. Kilbrei notes that students from other universities often take elective courses at CMU, and community members frequently take courses out of interest rather than simply to complete a degree. Keli Schmidt, a former Winnipegger now working freelance as an apparel developer in Brampton,

‘‘ Because of our Christian Anabaptist roots, we’re known for our positions in social justice, equality,

service and now our commitment to the Truth and Reconciliation principles.”

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APPRENTICSHIP copy.pdf 1 2016-07-27 11:12 AM

Red River College’s state-of-the-art Skilled Trades and Technology Centre is currently under construction. Red River College photo

RED RIVER COLLEGE

CONNECTED LEARNING

“As buildings become smarter, there is more of a need to be networked together,” Watson said. “In the old days, you had a furnace on its own. Now it’s connected to your HVAC. With the Internet of Things and being connected remotely, technology plays a much bigger part with the traditional trades than we think.” In fact, Watson said the new building will facilitate collaboration between trades and technology students. “We’re trying to build a collision centre to allow students to be able to experience each other’s industries. If you’re a refrigeration mechanic installing a furnace, you’re dealing with the electrician, the HVAC people and the sheet metal manufacturer. You’re never working alone anymore, and these are the types of skills and experiences industry is looking for from our grads so we’re continuing our trend of meeting and exceeding their needs,” he said. RRC didn’t really have much choice in whether to invest in its future, said Patrick Kuzyk, its chief capital projects officer. As other trades-focused institutions improve their facilities, such as Algonquin College in Ottawa and the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology and the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology in Calgary and Edmonton, respectively, you can either keep up or watch students walk away to more advanced programs elsewhere. “We decided to up our game. We’ve had to turn some students away because we didn’t have enough space. The STTC is going to increase capacity by about 30 per

cent every year. The building itself will see about 1,000 students per day. We’re hoping to run some evening classes, too. There is a big backlog in trades,” Kuzyk said. These aren’t your grandfather’s trades, either. RRC students use state-of-the-art laser cutters, plasma cutters, 3D printers and computer labs. “Even the sheet metal guys and the carpenters, instead of a set of blueprints, they have an iPad,” Kuzyk said. Students are currently honing their skills in cramped buildings that were great when they were designed a half-century ago but no longer fit the needs of modern training and education. “In the 1960s, you had a set of blueprints and a saw or a vise. Now you need all those things plus a computer monitor and there’s a whole other range of tools that they have at their disposal. There is so much more electronic information required at each work space. If the buildings don’t have it, they’re antiquated,” Kuzyk said. While current students are looking forward to moving into the STTC in the fall of 2018, their interim focus is on leaving their own legacy. Carpentry and sheet metal students, for example, have built 60 full-sized maple working benches, 14 rolling tool storage cabinets and 40 work stations. Each bench has a plaque engraved with the students’ names who built it. “The effort the students put in was unbelievable. They put their hearts and souls into the construction of those benches,” Kuzyk said. ❚

By Geoff Kirbyson for the Free Press

There are going to be many more

tradespeople who will hit the ground running once the newest facility at Red River College opens up next year. That will be thanks to the Skilled Trades and Technology Centre, an $80-million, 110,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility currently under construction, where would-be electricians, carpenters and refrigeration experts will be able to get more hands-on training before they step into the real world. Michael Watson, dean of the School of Construction and Engineering Technologies at RRC, said as the STTC rises from the ground, students have been able to take in the entire process and make immediate connections with the theory they’ve been taught in class. “They’ve been watching the building grow. Now, when we teach blueprint reading, it allows them to have a real- world visualization of a two-dimensional paper drawing,” he said. Blueprints are still a big part of every trade but it might surprise some to hear that technology plays an increasingly crucial role.

CMY

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ASSINIBOINE PARK & ZOO

NATURE & CREATIVITY

wonderful materials to dress up your front door and make it festive. Anything to do with botanicals at the conservatory is always very well received.” In addition, an eight-week yoga series will run every Wednesday from 6-7:15 p.m. starting Sept. 13 and running until Nov. 1 in the Ivan Eyre Gallery located in the pavilion. Families with kids aged three to five can look forward to the six-week Nature Tots program, which runs Wednesdays from 10-11:30 a.m. from Sept. 13 to Oct. 18. “Nature Tots runs out of the Acorn Room in the Qualico Family Centre, so they explore all the animals and plants around there,” Scouten says. “They do activities related to the theme of the day. There’s story time and a snack and usually a hands- on activity.” After that, families can sign up for the eight-week Zoo Tots program that runs on Wednesdays from Oct. 25 to Dec. 13. In addition to being interested in the workshop topics, many people are also drawn to the scenic settings at Assiniboine Park and Zoo. Most of the workshops are held at the conservatory, while other locations include the pavilion, the Qualico Family Centre and the zoo. “I think what really sells our workshops is not only the themes but our venues too. It’s really nice to have access to them after hours and get them to yourself. That way, you can explore the space and connect with it,” Scouten says. “The park and zoo are great places to connect with nature but also to learn.” The workshops follow the calendar of the Leisure Guide , which comes out Aug. 17, so that’s when the courses will be available for purchase on the Assiniboine Park and Zoo website at assiniboinepark.ca under the Learn and Play tab. For added incentive, zoo members receive a 10 per cent discount off the cost, and membership information is also available online. Scouten notes that the Assiniboine Park courses also make great gifts to give to others. She encourages people to keep checking the Assiniboine Park website because new activities might be added to the schedule. ❚ Fall and winter workshops are divided into four different themes, including sustainable living and DIY, creative arts, recreation and leisure, and children and family. Assiniboine Park and Zoo photos

By Jennifer McFee for the Free Press

Assiniboine Park and Zoo offers an abundance of educational and entertaining classes for adults and youngsters alike. Fall and winter workshops are divided into four different themes: sustainable living and DIY, creative arts, recreation and leisure, and children and family. “We have about 20 workshops planned. They’re usually in the evenings or weekends to work around people’s general work schedules,” says education co- ordinator Melissa Scouten. “The ticket sales for each workshop help facilitate the education and programming department to bring more people to the park through education programs. So people who sign up for these workshops are essentially helping other people to access the park through our programs. It’s like a fundraiser for our department.” Do-it-yourselfers might be interested in signing up for workshops focused on honey harvesting and cheese tasting or canning and preserves. “We also have workshops on how to make your own body scrubs with sugars and essential oils,” Scouten says. “It’s really fun and we get lots of entire families coming. We do them in the fall and during the holidays, so it’s a nice thing to do with the family before Christmas.” If you’re looking to indulge your creative side, artist Willow Wolfe is hosting painting workshops as well as several park paint nights. “In about three hours, you could complete a very nice painting to take home for yourself,” Scouten says. “You can learn some tips and tricks of painting and then get to take your artwork home.” Other artistic options include a paper-marbling workshop with Janet Carrol and a felted mitts workshop with Cathy Sutton. Under the category of recreation and leisure, you can learn about everything from fall birding to holiday-themed crafts. “For people who like making things out of botanical materials, we have workshops on making your own fall wreaths, holiday wreaths and holiday containers with a woman who owns a company called Front Door Stories,” says Scouten. “She brings in

PROVIDENCE PROVIDES TOOLS TO DECIPHER AND MAKE MEDIA Everything is mediated. People, things, information — the world around us is constantly communicating. So how do we hear, how do we read what it’s saying, and why? PROVIDENCE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE ‘‘ Media literacy — the ability to access and evaluate the information you consume — is a vital study in this age of ‘post-truth’...”

“Media literacy — the ability to access and evaluate the information you consume — is a vital study in this age of ‘post-truth’,” says Dr. Nicholas Greco, Associate Professor of Communications & Media at Providence University College in Otterburne, Man. “I’d argue that if you can analyze media, you can do media.” And Providence graduates are certainly doing. Some work as videographers and radio journalists. Others are employed in corporate communications. In May a Communications & Media grad was invited to present at the Popular Culture Association of Canada Conference in Niagara Falls, Ont. Greco, himself, has made significant contributions to his field of study and is currently authoring a book on U2 that will be published next year.

“I’m not looking at the members of the band as people, but as celebrities that express who they are through stage performance, music video and music itself,” he explains. “This is why studying Communications & Media is important. We only get to see people and things through mediation. We need to be able to decode these things if we’re going to figure out what is really happening in the world.” Communications & Media study at Providence is unique in that it engages students with prominent communications theorists and semiologists, equipping them to decipher media before making it. Adds Greco: “Providence will give you the edge as a critical consumer of media as well as one who can learn to create media that will ultimately make an impact.” ❚

MORE IMPORTANT MEDIA LITERACY HAS NEVER BEEN Providence Communications & Media students learn to be critical consumers of media. They also go on to work as videographers, radio journalists and corporate communications professionals.

Visit Prov.ca/Communications to learn more

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UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF THE NORTH

UCN EMPOWERS STUDENTS, COMMUNITIES Students pursue post-secondary education for a variety of positive reasons, including expanding their minds, enhancing career prospects and making a difference in the world around them. University College of the North (UCN) continues to offer opportunities to achieve all three by delivering degree programs specifically tailored to meet the current and anticipated needs of employers in northern Manitoba.

With the recent appointment of a new president and vice-chancellor in Doug Lauvstad, UCN may be embarking on a new leadership direction, but all roads will still lead back to the university’s core principles — quality education and training for northern Manitoba residents, in tune with the social and economic needs of the region. “The North is more than a colder version of (southern Canada); it has its own culture,” says Dr. Dan Smith, UCN’s vice-president of academic and research. “UCN has an important connection to the Aboriginal population and has the potential to do more good than many other institutions, mostly because of the population we serve, where we are and the fact that there hadn’t before been a degree-granting institution in the North.” Admission is open to applicants from everywhere, with many attracted by UCN’s unique understanding of Aboriginal culture and how it can be incorporated to benefit important career paths, such as education, social work and health care. The school offers 35-45 programs in a given year through their main campuses in Thompson and The Pas and a network of 12 regional centres located throughout the province. UCN offers certificate, diploma and degree programs in three faculties — the faculty of education; faculty of arts, business and science; and the

faculty of health, as well as a College of Trades and Technology. “Many students are excited about the fact that we are an institution that takes very seriously its mandate in terms of providing education for northern and Aboriginal Manitobans,” says Smith. “In Manitoba, students have lots of options, so we strive to prepare them for work that matters in their own communities.” Smith says for UCN the geography and demographics of northern Manitoba are key factors in how and where programs are delivered. Many of the northern region’s approximately 75,000 residents live in small, often remote, communities spread over an area “about the size of France,” so it is important to accommodate students by providing programming reasonably close to home. “Our students are naturally concerned about their own career prospects, but many are also interested in how they can help their communities, how they can give back,” says Smith. “We help them develop practical skills and knowledge in such areas as teacher education, health professions including nursing, business and a variety of technical professions that are connected to what northern communities need and industry requires to support its northern labour force, now and into the future.” UCN’s regional centres all offer first-year liberal arts programs, a common requirement

UCN offers dozens of programs through their main campuses in Thompson and The Pas and a network of 12 regional centres located throughout the province. UCN photos

for students planning to pursue further study in certain fields, such as social work. “We incorporate Aboriginal perspectives into our curriculum, something often called ‘Indigenization,’” says Smith. “In the North, over 70 per cent of the population is Aboriginal, so we can’t properly support the regional labour force needs, if our programs are not speaking to 70 per cent of the prospective student body.” Smith says UCN’s student body mirrors the proportion of Aboriginal people in the general population of their catchment area. The Indigenized curriculum approach — that has made the school’s teacher education program a model for other schools — also benefits communities by helping them better retain their young people who, otherwise, might opt to leave their communities for opportunities elsewhere. “All institutions are trying to better understand how they can better meet the call to action in

the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. We feel that we may be a little bit further ahead, simply because of the nature of our institution and where we are located,” says Smith. Collaboration is a recurrent theme in the programs of UCN, including several new offerings. The school is working with Assiniboine Community College to deliver a heavy equipment apprenticeship program. Strong success with its bachelor of nursing program in partnership with the University of Manitoba has inspired further joint offerings between the schools, including a master’s of social work degree program, as well as programs that will lead to bachelor’s degrees in business administration or environmental studies. “Whatever the communities need,” says Smith. “We do our best to deliver.” For more information about University College of the North, visit ucn.ca ❚

WINNIPEG FREE PRESS - THURSDAY, AUGUST 3, 2017 10

UNIVERSITÉ DE SAINT-BONIFACE

REAL-LIFE EDUCATION

By Todd Lewys for the Free Press

Suffice it to say, Université de Saint-Boniface’s Continuing Education Division has come a long way since the 1960s.

Back then, the Jesuits — who founded the college — began to offer French language courses for those who lived in the surrounding community. “That was the embryonic stage of our department,” says Aileen Clark, director of USB’s Continuing Education Division (CED). “In 1977, Father Laval Cloutier, founder of the Technical and Professional College (TPC), inaugurated the CED, as we know it today, as a division of the TPC.” Then, in 1988, the CED became an independent entity with Edith Pantel as its director. A multitude of programs would follow, including Français oral, which remains the CED’s flagship program. “While becoming independent from the technical college and getting a new name in 1988 was a big moment for the CED, our seminal moment took place in 1977, when we began offering continuing education, much as we do today. We’re proud to be celebrating our 40th anniversary this year.” There is much to celebrate about USB’s Continuing Education Division, starting with the fact that it’s open to learners young and old who are looking to improve or perfect their French language skills. “Because we have three sectors — a language school, youth programs and professional and personal development — you can learn in French at all stages of life: in camps, in workshops or language, it’s all under one roof from start to finish.” The perennially popular Français oral, which is complemented by Perfectionnment du français, is a program available to those who are already bilingual, but want to take their French skills to the next level. “We’re extremely proud of both programs. We’ve actually developed our own course material, which has been created by both our part-time teachers and permanent staff,” she says, adding that Spanish is another major language program at USB. “We’ve done that so we can respond better to the needs that must be met in our (educational) context — to offer a true communicative experience that’s supported by the setting and course material.”

That authentic, immersive education experience is available in other areas, as well. “Our professional and personal development sector offers a one- day personal and professional development conference that features several workshops during the day that address a variety of needs. This year, we will offer, amongst others, workshops on the multifaceted use of (Microsoft) Outlook as well as change management,” Clark says. “We also have several great options for youth — Tu Parles! for beginners, Camplus sur Campus and Étudiant d’un jour (Student for a Day).” The latter offering has proven to be particularly relevant for high school students looking to get a preview of university life. “When you take part in Étudiant d’un jour, you get to attend post- secondary classes for the day. Students get an overview of content, can meet professors and broaden their horizon. It’s an experience that future USB students find very helpful.” As USB celebrates four decades of offering top-level continuing education programs — their language school is by far its largest sector, says Clark — they’re looking to get even better at what they do, in every area. “We’re looking to build on our professional development program, and to build further on the success of our language school. We’re always updating course material and trying to find better ways to provide the best educational experience possible.” Moving forward, that will be accomplished by enhancing an already immersive educational environment, and continuing to tailor course content to meet the needs of students. “In our mind, if we can provide an authentic situation in which to learn, we will be doing the best job possible of providing the building blocks students need to perform well in real-life situations,” she says. “Our ongoing goal is to make our programs as practical, hands-on and as close to reality as possible.” For more information, visit ustboniface.ca/educationplus, or call 204-235-4400. ❚

USB’s Continuing Education Division is open to learners young and old who are looking to improve or perfect their French language skills. Université de Saint-Boniface photos

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WINNIPEG FREE PRESS - THURSDAY, AUGUST 3, 2017 11

HERZING COLLEGE WINNIPEG

COMMITTED TO CAREERS

By Shane Gibson for the Free Press

Life is filled with big decisions, and choosing a career and the best educational institution to get started on that path is one of those life altering choices that should not be made lightly.

Herzing offers programs in business, health care, legal studies, media, digital marketing, technology, supply chain management and logistics, and professional development. Herzing College photos

That’s why the admissions advisors at Herzing College Winnipeg work closely with prospective students to make sure the course they choose is the right fit for them, and that Herzing is the right school for that training. “It’s a very significant choice a person is making when it comes to their education — it’s like buying a car or buying a house — you wouldn’t rush it. You’d want to sit down and give careful consideration to what it is you’re trying to achieve,” says Herzing president, Kerry Swanson. “Any school that’s pressuring you to make a decision and not allowing you to take time for consideration of things should be a warning sign, because this is your future we’re talking about.” Swanson says he frequently hears stories about students going to other schools that didn’t offer the course they were originally looking for, but felt pressured to take another program at the school instead.

“At Herzing, what we’re going to do is, if the program isn’t available here, we’re most certainly going to let you know where it is offered,” he says. “As a school we make it a priority to spend time with everybody who comes in looking at what their education options are — we give them at least 45 minutes to an hour or more if needed, and will even set a second interview if required — and when we’re done that discussion we can look and say we’re confident that, first of all, the program we offer fits that individual’s needs, and secondly that that person is committed to doing the work they’ll need to do to get through the program.” Herzing offers programs in business, health care, legal studies, media, digital marketing, technology, supply chain management and logistics, and professional development. All courses are led by instructors with academic and industry experience, and Swanson says the college also works closely with industry

to make sure their programs meet the needs of the ever-changing workplace. Programs at Herzing are designed to properly train graduates and get them working as soon as possible, says Swanson, which means students can expect to work very hard while enrolled at the school. “Our programs are one year or less — the idea is you get a marketable skill in a relatively short period of time,” he explains. “That means there’s a fairly heavy demand on the student while they’re here, but we also will provide special supports to help the student reach their goals. We want to see each student meet all industry needs quickly, and there’s a lot of material to cover in a short period of time.” And that’s one of the reasons Swanson says Herzing puts so much effort into making sure the students they accept for each program are well suited to the career they’ll end up in after graduation.

“It goes back to our admissions process — that commitment is what we’re looking for at the beginning — because we know we’re going to ask a lot of them once they’re in school,” he says, adding that the commitment ensures Herzing’s graduates keep up the school’s reputation for producing high-quality candidates who are ready for industry. “Students are being asked to make a significant investment and we want to feel assured they’re up for it, because for us, that’s our product — our product is making sure our students get the education that they’ve asked for and then are able to go on to pursue a career. We take pride in working with one student at a time and really need to have a candid conversation about why they want to better themselves.” For more information on the courses offered at Herzing College Winnipeg or to make an appointment with an admissions advisor, go to herzing.ca/Winnipeg. ❚

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12 WINNIPEG FREE PRESS - THURSDAY, AUGUST 3, 2017

MANITOBA MUSEUM

THINK BIG AT MANITOBA MUSEUM By Jennifer McFee for the Free Press For budding paleontologists, a dinosaur-themed sleepover at the Manitoba Museum is sure to be a dream come true.

DinoSnores is geared for kids from eight to 12, and one adult must accompany every three children. Manitoba Museum photos

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dinosaurs. You might think you know everything you need to know about these things, but there’s tons more to learn.”

A special event called DinoSnores: A Night at the Museum starts Aug. 26 at 6 p.m. and wraps up the following morning at 9 a.m. For science programs developer Mike Jensen, museum sleepovers are nothing new since they’ve been offered for more than two decades to different groups such as school classes, 4-H clubs, Girl Guides and Scouts. However, it’s an entirely new endeavour to open up the overnight events for families — and the museum’s current World’s Giant Dinosaurs exhibit has encouraged organizers to think big about the possibilities. “It’s an exclusive night just for those participants,” Jensen says. “We’re not open to the public or anyone other than those who are registered for the sleepover.” He recommends booking in advance since the inaugural event on June 3 sold out, and he predicts the Aug. 26 event will attract the same response. “Participants had exclusive visits to the dinosaur exhibit and the other parts of our facility. It really did feel like it was an intimate atmosphere for families to explore at their own pace,” Jensen says. “They can’t actually sleep in the dinosaur exhibit, but they sleep in the science gallery with all the exhibits down there. They set up sleeping bags and air mattresses and cots all over the place, so the science gallery is filled with people.” The event is geared for kids from eight to 12, and one adult must accompany every three children. Younger and older kids are also welcome; however, Jensen doesn’t recommend the sleepover for wee ones under the age of five. Based on experience gleaned from the first DinoSnores sleepover, they will likely make a few adaptations to ensure the experience will be even better for the August event. “We’re thrilled with the success of the first one. Quite honestly, it was the adults who were actually expressing the most joy and excitement about it,” Jensen says. “Of course, the kids were having a great time too.” Since the exhibit ends on Sept. 4, the sleepover provides an unforgettable way to bid farewell to the dinosaur display. “It’s near the end of the exhibit, so for anyone who wants one last chance, this is a good opportunity,” Jensen says.

“Although this dinosaur exhibit won’t last here past the summer, we’re looking at continuing these sleepovers for the public. They’re very popular, so we think we’ll keep going with them.” For those who would rather visit during regular hours, programs manager Rachel Erickson says there are lots of opportunities to check out the World’s Giant Dinosaurs display. For added convenience, the museum is open until 9 p.m. on Friday nights until the end of the dinosaur exhibit. “It’s definitely worth seeing because it’s an exhibit that everybody gets something different out of. For little kids, it’s obviously the ‘wow’ factor. It’s fun to see them come in and be so excited,” she says. “The dinosaurs are really impressive. They’re some of the biggest dinosaurs that have ever been created for an indoor context. You wouldn’t really see anything bigger except if you go to a theme park. We’re really lucky to have them here.” The massive creatures are also an ideal way to showcase the museum’s new exhibit space. “It makes our new Alloway Hall look tiny but it’s actually a massive space,” she says. “It’s been so great to show off the space and what can be done in there. If it can fit these dinosaurs in, you can only imagine what else we can do in the future with it.” Adding to the excitement, kids can enjoy some prehistoric playtime in the exhibit’s dig pit and get a close-up view of fossils in a display that contains both real and replica specimens. For more hands-on activities, kids can express their artistic side at a craft station. “The exhibit designer explains that we’re in the golden age of dinosaurs. We’re discovering new dinosaurs every two weeks, and half the dinosaurs we know about these days would’ve been discovered in the last 20 years,” Erickson says. “It’s a great time for dinosaurs. You might think you know everything you need to know about these things, but there’s tons more to learn.” As another option, the Manitoba Museum offers summer day camps right up to Sept. 1 for kids in kindergarten to Grade 5. More information is available under the Programs and Events section of the museum’s website at manitobamuseum.ca. ❚

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