(SAULT STE. MARIE, ON – May 18, 2021): As part of the Government of Canada’s Innovative Work-Integrated Learning Initiative (IWIL) and Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning (CEWIL) Canada’s Innovation Hub (iHUB), Algoma University has received a total of $97,200 in funding to student support work-integrated learning (WIL) opportunities.
The innovative and forward-thinking approach of this funding provided 54 students with enhanced experiential learning WIL placements as a part of their academic programs this Winter term, in the midst of the global pandemic.
“Experiential learning has looked very different for students this past year,” said Dawn White, Director, Experiential Learning and International Affairs. “This funding went a long way to ensure students had the resources and opportunities to participate in meaningful placements; even when they were not physically able to be present in the workplace.”
Each placement provided direct support to students to expand access to WIL; particularly for under-represented student groups, including Indigenous students, racialized Canadians, persons with disabilities, women in STEM, newcomers and rural and remote students. The funding provided increased support and encouraged innovative approaches for virtual internships, field placements, and practicums in the Schools of Life Sciences, Visual Arts, Community Economic and Social Development, and Social Work.
“I’d like to first acknowledge the commitment and perseverance of students who completed their field placements, as well as the field instructors, field coordinator, and the University’s support in making sure students were safe at all times in their placements,” said Dr. Rose Cameron, Director of the School of Social Work. “The valuable iHub funding provided a new level of support for students who were able to acquire and demonstrate the knowledge and skills for generalist practice through work-integrated learning. The funding will prepare students as they transition from their field placements into the workforce.”
The funding also provided resources to promote professional readiness and enhanced connections between students and community organizations. Students had the opportunity to further develop skills in an authentic workplace setting, while simultaneously adapting to the constant changes brought on by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Graduates in each of the four program areas will be well-positioned with high-demand knowledge and skills to transition to meaningful careers in a variety of fields.
Winter term WIL placements wrapped up at the end of April. Algoma University’s Experiential Learning Hub will showcase examples of completed work through an upcoming social media campaign.
This project is funded in part by the Government of Canada’s Innovative Work-Integrated Learning Initiative (IWIL) and Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning (CEWIL) Canada’s Innovation Hub (iHUB). The opinions and interpretations in this publication are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the Government of Canada or Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning Canada.
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