Welcome to the April 2022 issue of Innovatus

Innovatus featured image

‘Innovatus’ is a special edition of YFile devoted to teaching and learning innovation at York University.

Will Gage
Will Gage

Hello and welcome back to a new issue of ‘Innovatus.’

During April, the world marks a month of reflection that culminates with Earth Day on April 22 and so it is very appropriate that this issue of ‘Innovatus’ examines the emphasis on excellence in teaching and learning, the student experience and internationalism woven into every part of York University’s Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change (EUC).

From the Faculty-wide approach to experiential learning to embracing the international experience offered by York University’s EcoCampus in the Las Nubes Rainforest in Costa Rica and the approach by faculty to teaching by example, there are a myriad of wonderful stories about the inspirational work underway within EUC.

In her letter introducing this issue, EUC Dean Alice Hovorka encourages us to embrace the idea that addressing the climate crisis is not a matter of “now or never” but rather “now and forever.” It’s something I hope you will keep in mind as you read the stories offered in this issue of ‘Innovatus.’

Please let me know your thoughts on the stories presented in this special issue. And, if you have an interesting story to suggest, please send it to my office. 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.

As always, thank you. I look forward to receiving your comments and to seeing you on campus.

Sincerely,

Will Gage
Associate Vice-President Teaching and Learning


In this issue:

EUC Capstone experiences foster environmental literacy and action
In her message to the community, Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change (EUC) Dean, Alice Hovorka writes that addressing the climate crisis is not a matter of “now or never” but rather “now and forever.” It is within this context that York University’s EUC has been established as a call to action to respond to the pressing challenges facing people and the planet.

Understanding climate justice focus of EUC field course
Over the summer, undergraduate student changemakers in the Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change (EUC) will hone their knowledge of climate justice issues through a unique experiential education opportunity with Professor P.E. Perkins, an internationally renowned climate justice thought leader.

Ontario’s iconic Bruce Peninsula beckons as a living laboratory for EUC students
Designated as an UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, the Bruce Peninsula offers an unprecedented experience in biodiversity for students in the Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change (EUC).

EUC taps into C4 opportunities for capstone experience
Students in the Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change (EUC) speak about their Cross-Campus Capstone Classroom (C4) experience and how they contributed to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

York University’s EcoCampus in Costa Rica offers students exceptional learning experience
Following a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, courses at York University’s unique Eco-Campus in Costa Rica are welcoming students back to the rainforest.