In the fall of 2017, UFV’s Teaching and Learning Centre began soliciting for proposals from students on improving learning at UFV. The question was, “What can UFV do to enhance your learning.” Three prizes were awarded. The contest drew 27 proposals from students over a six-week period. An ad hoc committee reviewed the proposals and three winners were chosen.
The top three projects, as determined by the committee were:
1) Sleep Pods – Muriah Cardin
As a commuting student from Langley, with classes in Chilliwack, then a drive to a part-time job, Muriah often finds that she is napping in her car, and she notes, she’s not alone. She feels nap pods would allow students to be more refreshed and energized to enable them to have better concentration in class. Success would be determined by usage and perhaps, a short survey of users to determine success.
The committee has begun to investigate costs and possible locations.
2) Two-day skills bootcamp/workshop – University Bootcamp – Clinton Campbell
Clinton suggested that seminars in fields like writing, reading, studying, assignment preparation, time management, come together in a two-day workshop to assist students in developing their skills.
The committee has asked the Academic Success Centre for some input into how this might work, including using peer tutors and others to provide assistance and to consider timing.
3) Interdisciplinary projects/capstones – Quintin Stamler
Quintin suggested that students be involved in larger scale projects that involve multiple disciplines in order to be successful. For example, a display or auction of UFV art would involve event planning, marketing, business, visual arts, and members of the community. He would like to have more real-life experiences, working “cross-program” to gain networking opportunities and build character.
The committee chair said that she would share this idea with Deans.
Summary of other proposals
The other proposals were grouped according to themes. Several of the proposals are already in place.
Transition programming
There were four proposals specifically suggesting more transition assistance for students. For example, one was a “shadowing” program where high school students would shadow a UFV student for a day. In the first week of school, a student would like to see more volunteers to assist students with everything from parking to finding food. Another suggested more high school assemblies and field trips to UFV. Another suggested a mentoring-type of program for discipline-specific students to assist with the transition into the program.
Improved Teaching and Learning Experiences
There were several suggestions about improving learning in the classroom, such as “Less Talk, More Action,” a request for more hands-on learning activities; inquiry-based learning, better questioning and discussions in class, and video recording every lecture and moving it online. A student in health science would like to learn using cadavers. A student suggested that more research opportunities be available to students where work integrated learning is not an option. Another suggested bringing in volunteer opportunities through community organizations like the Salvation Army to gain work/learning experience. One student wanted to see more understanding around intercultural perspectives using the example of having to write a reflective paper and having to share feelings on paper — something she had never done before and was not comfortable doing.
Programming
There were several suggestions around programming such as providing and recognizing credit for American Sign Language, and incorporating Deaf culture into UFV. Another suggested that UFV begin a program in microbrewing.
Apps
Students wanted to see an increase in the number of applications for cell phones, such as an increase in the use of Kahoot, an audience response system used for polling in class. (Some departments use Kahoot, while others do not.) Another suggested an assignment app that would allow students to see and schedule their assignments. (This is available in Blackboard, but faculty have to be using Blackboard for students to take advantage of it.) Other suggestions included a way-finding app (also available through UFV’s mobile app, but perhaps not as sophisticated as this student would like to see.)
Guest Speakers/Events
Students wanted to see more special events and guest speakers, such as Gabor Mate, come on campus. One student suggested a Pep Rally at the beginning of the fall and winter semesters to get more students together and improve UFV community. Another suggested one day of special events devoted to Mental Health and Wellness. As a way to improve confidence and motivation, a student suggested an event called the Long Day Against Indecision using humour to link students to services on campus. An Education Panel, which features representatives from interesting employment fields, was suggested to discuss and address questions students may have regarding learning and employment opportunities in their fields.
Amphitheatre
A student suggested that an amphitheatre be built on the green for students to have classes, theatre productions and study space.
For more information, contact Maureen Wideman at maureen.wideman@ufv.ca
03/31/2018