U of T students speak out about the advantages of experiential learning

As a university student, gaining real world experience can be hard with classes, studying, assignments, and exams. At University of Toronto Scarborough, we make it easy to get real world experience. Experiential learning is at the heart of U of T Scarborough. The aim of our programs is to help our students apply what they learn in the classroom to real world situations. Our students not only get the best education in Canada, but they also get the benefit of gaining work experience and hands on training that will fast track their careers. Whether you are in an arts, science or business program, there is always a way to break free from the typical classroom environment. Get the experience you need to succeed at work before you leave school.

HANDS-ON LEARNING
Our Concurrent Teacher Education Program (CTEP) is just one example of experiential learning. Kaitlin, a 3rd year CTEP student in French explains, “The program components are invaluable to us as future teachers since we get a feel for what teaching is really like – from specialized classes to multiple field placements. I returned to my old high school in Fenelon Falls to observe my previous teachers’ Gr. 9 and 10 classrooms. At local Toronto schools I observed different French programs for toddlers and students in Gr. 3, 5, 7 and 8. This spring, I will be completing a 100 hour internship at my previous high school.”
   
Not only limited to CTEP, experiential learning is the primary goal of the Science Engagement program at U of T Scarborough. This program is aimed at encouraging students to step outside of the typical classroom environment and to enhance the way they learn science. “Science Engagement gives you the full learning experience that you would not normally get from the classroom. I got a glimpse into the field of research at COSTI Immigration Services and at the Centre for Research on Inner City Health at St. Michael’s Hospital. In examining current public health issues, I developed a critical perspective in conducting research and conference planning. Now I have a better understanding of what it means to be a researcher,” says Pirasanthan, a 4th year Psychology student participating in the Science Engagement program.

Jennifer, a 3rd year Cell & Molecular Biology student gained a lot from the Science Engagement ‘In-Reach’ program at the Math Aid Centre on campus: “I got to help other students while I also helped myself. My tasks included free tutoring and giving seminars on difficult math concepts covered in class. I learned valuable skills that I would never have been able to acquire from a textbook. My math skills strengthened throughout the semester and I also improved my presentation skills. Academics aside, this was my way of giving back to the community and I made a close connection with a professor whose advice will guide me down my future career path.”

At U of T Scarborough, we also offer courses with a field work component, which gives our students real world experience: “I took a limnology field course in Algonquin Park during my second summer at UTSC.  This course was a wonderful opportunity to try hands-on experience in fresh water studies; with only 20 students and 3 professors, we were able to ask many questions and learn rapidly because of the small student to faculty ratio.  On Lake Opeongo we analyzed water chemistry, physical properties, and freshwater biology.  It was also a stunning location to study in and a great place to spend evenings by a campfire or paddle under the stars,” says Jennifer, a 4th year co-op Environmental Science student.

CO-OP
U of T Scarborough is the only U of T campus to offer 78 co-op programs in the arts, sciences, and business. Simply put, co-op programs enable you to apply the knowledge acquired in the classroom to practical ‘real world’ work situations. You gain 6 to 12 months of paid work experience relevant to your specific program of study.

There are many advantages of a co-op education at U of T Scarborough, one of which is location. U of T Scarborough is located in Toronto, Canada’s most vibrant and diverse city. As the home to many multinational corporations, work term opportunities exist with Sun Microsystems, Proctor & Gamble, and Microsoft Canada.

“Microsoft was challenging and fast-paced. I learned a lot as I took on many responsibilities, including updating revenue reports for business segments, scorecards for various Microsoft products, as well as other reporting requests. It helped me to develop my skills in the private sector, and gave me great insight into a future CMA-type role in a publicly traded organization. I have built great relationships and have expanded my professional network, which will undoubtedly lead to more career options in the future,” says David, a 4th year co-op Management student at U of T Scarborough.

These opportunities are tremendously beneficial. Breaking free from the classroom increases the overall level of learning offering a plethora of new experiences, knowledge and skills. Our students start networking with prospective employers/organizations as early as their first year, which creates contacts with potential employers for future jobs. In the end, our students develop a better understanding of careers available to them. “When I chose U of T co-op, I thought having work experience would look good on my resume, but now I realize I not only get experience from 12 months’ work, but also a better idea about my career. I am much clearer about what to do in the future,” says Chenxing, a 4th year Quantitative Analysis student.

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