“Innovatus” is a special issue of YFile devoted to teaching and learning innovation at York University.
Hello,
Welcome to the October 2021 issue of “Innovatus.” My sincere thanks to everyone who contacted me about our September issue. I am delighted that you enjoyed the stories.
In this issue, we offer some truly inspiring stories about the work underway in the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies (LA&PS) to enhance teaching and learning and the student experience. Dean J.J. McMurtry and his team have been hard at work during the pandemic. They have been exploring new and innovative ways to offer valuable programming to undergraduate students enrolled in the Faculty. Whether it is removing math anxiety by shoring up skills, opening new ways to mentor students or offering a skills bridge to life after graduation, what is evident to me is the full-spectrum approach by LA&PS to enhancing the student experience.
Throughout the pandemic there have been opportunities in the quiet moments to reflect about new ways of learning. The approach taken by LA&PS exemplifies how such opportunities are developed into deeply meaningful experiences for students.
In this issue
Dean’s message: Innovations, student success, career readiness and more
Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies Dean J.J. McMurtry introduces readers to “Innovatus” stories about the remarkable programs developed to help ensure student success. Read full story.
New mentorship programs focus on Black, women students
Advancing YU, a new mentorship program launching this month by the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies, brings students together with accomplished alumni. Read full story.
SNACK aims to satisfy hunger for math assistance
The Student Numeracy Assistance Centre – Keele (SNACK) is a pilot launched by the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies to help students hone their numeracy-related skills. Read full story.
New career readiness offerings prepare students for life after university
A series of specialized workshops and online modules offered by the experiential education team in the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies offer a dynamic, important resource for students who are preparing to enter the workforce. Read full story.
Study a language and become a global citizen
Languages offer a gateway to the world and enable learners to acquire global competencies and cultural experiences. Read full story.
Please keep your comments and reflections coming to me because I read every one. If you have an interesting story to suggest, please send it along. Faculty, course directors and staff are invited to share their experiences in teaching, learning, internationalization and the student experience through the “Innovatus” story form, which is available at tl.apps01.yorku.ca/machform/view.php?id=16573.
Again, my thanks to each of you for your interest and support.
Be well and I look forward to saying, “Hello!” as our return to campus continues.
Sincerely,
Will Gage
Associate Vice-President, Teaching and Learning