Hello and welcome back to Innovatus, a special issue of YFile that celebrates teaching, learning and the student experience at York University.
Our first issue was very well received and I am grateful to everyone who took the time to provide their feedback and support.
Each month, Innovatus explores how York University community members are expanding experiential learning, enhancing the student experience, inspiring innovation in technology-enhanced learning and embracing educational development.
The second issue of Innovatus examines experiential education from two distinct approaches. Eva Peisachovich, an assistant professor in the School of Nursing in the Faculty of Heath at York University, has “flipped” her classroom. In this innovative arrangement, students listen to lectures at home and apply what they had learned during classes that focus on experiential learning. Meanwhile, at Glendon, a popular course taught by Professor Véronique Tomaszewski involves students in religious and cultural rituals as part of their immersive learning experience. The course encourages students to talk about religion and understand different religious and cultural rituals and customs.
We also offer a preview of two important conferences. The very popular Supporting Teaching and Learning at York (STAY) Symposium for teaching assistants at York University returns on May 5. This symposium offers a wonderful professional development and provides graduate students with an opportunity to collaborate in a multidisciplinary way on how they can enhance the classroom experience for their undergraduate students. The conference is free, so register early to avoid disappointment.
York University’s Teaching in Focus (TIF) conference returns May 17 and 18. This year, in addition to two days of inspiring presentations on teaching, learning and the student experience, TIF will feature a special “maker space” session that offers a terrific opportunity to try out a wide range of teaching and learning technologies. As with the STAY Symposium, TIF is completely free but be sure to register early as space is limited.
Innovatus publishes on the third Friday of every month during the academic year. The publication is produced by the Office of the Associate Vice-President Teaching & Learning in partnership with Communications & Public Affairs.
As always, we are looking for unique story ideas. Share your experience with us through the Innovatus story form, which is available at http://tl.apps01.yorku.ca/machform/view.php?id=16573/