“How can we produce food… and reduce our footprint?” – John Derksen, Chair of the Aquaculture Centre of Excellence

John Derksen, Chair of the Aquaculture Centre of Excellence, and Dr. Nick Savidov, Senior Research Scientist at the Aquaculture Centre of Excellence take us on a deep dive into aquaponics!

They explain how their aquaponics facility works, including their state-of-the-art biofiltration technology that’s taking reduce, reuse, recycle to a whole new level. With a proper set up, aquaponics creates a synergistic ecosystem where fish, plants, and microorganisms can thrive indefinitely.

John and Nick also share about upcoming applied research projects, and about their microcredential series which have garnered the interest of – and collaboration with – the largest aquaponics association in the world.

References: 

• Peruse Aquaponics Microcredentials here!
• Aquaculture Centre of Excellence
• Difference between aquaculture, hydroponics, and aquaponics:
  • Aquaculture is the farming of aquatic organisms like fish, shrimp, or aquatic plants in controlled environments, such as tanks or ponds, for food or commercial purposes.
  • Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil, where roots are submerged in a nutrient-rich water solution or grow in soilless media using nutrient solutions.
  • Aquaponics is a symbiotic ecosystem combining aquaculture (raising fish), hydroponics (growing plants without soil), and microorganisms. Fish waste provides nutrients for plants and microorganisms, and the plants and microorganisms purify the water for the fish.
• VR – Virtual reality
• RAS – Recirculating aquaculture system
• A drum filter in aquaponics is a mechanical filtration system that uses a rotating drum to separate solid waste from liquid waste.
• An oxygenator in aquaponics adds oxygen to the water, helping fish breathe and promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria that break down fish waste into nutrients for plants.
• A biofilter in aquaponics harbours bacteria (nitrifiers) that convert toxic ammonia into nitrate through a two-step process.
• A bioreactor in aquaponics is a chamber that utilizes aerobic microorganisms to break down and liquify all solid fish waste that is separated and collected from the system. Aerobic is key, as most bioreactors are anaerobic.
• A trickling (carbon) filter in aquaponics is both a mechanical and self-regenerating biofilter where water trickles over a physical medium (such as charcoal) and slowly drains through.  Microorganisms colonize this medium and help to break down harmful (typically liquid) fish waste, such as ammonium, and mineralize finer organic particles as it passes through. Finer solid particles are filtered out in the process, producing crystal-clear water.
• Water polishing in aquaponics is the process of removing any remaining particles or impurities from the water to ensure it’s clean and clear for both fish and plants.
• Filter backwashing in aquaponics is the process of reversing the flow of water through a filter to remove accumulated debris and waste. This process isn’t needed in a properly functioning aquaponics system!
• Aerobic – with oxygen
• Anaerobic – without oxygen
• University of Alberta
• Dr. Basil Andrew Keddie
• Examples of other applied research projects at the college:
  • E24: An Exploration of Immersive Technology Inspiring Lifelong Movement
  • E33: Immersive Storytelling – The Battle of Belly River
• Comparing HSP with LED lighting (by Stouch Lighting Staff, LED lighting sellers)
  • HPS – high-pressure sodium
  • LED – light-emitting diode
    • High Bay LED lighting is an energy-efficient fixture design that brightly illuminates large indoor spaces with high ceilings, such as warehouses or factories, using long-lasting LED technology
• Canola Council of Canada
• SOP – standard operating procedure
• E. coli (Wikipedia)
• University of Georgia – Interdisciplinary team for aquaponics
• CTLI – Centre for Teaching, Learning, and Innovation
• The Aquaponics Association
• CARIE – Centre for Applied Research, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship
  • Agriculture, Food, and Environment
  • CARIE client intake form
• Grab a bottle of the Aquaculture Centre’s plant superfood fertilizer from two places:
  • Lethbridge College Bookstore
  • Google Maps location of Granary Road (just south of Calgary, AB)
    • Read more about Lethbridge College’s Aquaponics plant food on this page (scroll to the bottom)

Doctor Bhuvinder Vaid, an Education Developer from Capilano University, and Doctor Gwen Nguyen and Britt Dzioba who are Advisors on the Learning and Teaching team at BCcampus, join the pod for a sustained conversation around positionality.

This trio dives deeply into this concept, and explores how positionality is a practice that can break down equity barriers and help students feel a greater sense of inclusivity and belonging in their learning environments.

Bhuvinder, Britt and Gwen share how to craft a positionality statement, and how taking this reflexive step in your teaching practice can help you and your students relate with each other, and even foster deeper community in your classroom.

During the episode, Gwen, Bhuvinder, Britt and Donna (host) mention:

• BCcampus
• Capilano University
• Gwen & Bhuvinder’s FLO Friday Webinar: Where to Position Positionality in Your Work
• Positionality versus Intersectionality
• UBC – University of British Columbia
• University of Victoria
• BC Ministry of Children and Family Development
• Instructor Certification Program (ICP) at Lethbridge College
• Universal design for learning (UDL)
• Bringing the Practice of Positionality into Teaching and Learning by Britt Dzioba
• This Book Is Anti-Racist: 20 Lessons on How to Wake Up, Take Action, and Do The Work (by Tiffany Jewell)
• Haiku – a Japanese form of poetry with 3 lines: the first line contains 5 syllables, the second contains 7 syllables, and the last line contains 5 syllables
• Reflect on Your Positionality to Ensure Student Success by Christine Harrington
• SoTL – Scholarship of Teaching and Learning
• “Hope is like a road in the country, there is never a road but when people walk on it, the road comes into existence” a variation of the poem by Lin Yutang
• Community of Practice
• Lillooet (Stʼatʼimc)
• Squamish
• Musqueam
• Sechelt (shíshálh nation)
• Tsleil-Waututh
• Halkomelem (also known as Burnaby, BC)
• Lekwungen
  • Esquimalt and Songhees (also known as Victoria, BC)
• míqәn (Beacon Hill Park)
• See Britt’s Digital Positionality Collage below.

Joshua Hill, an instructor at Lethbridge College, shares about his exciting course-build on Environmental Psychology and Conservation.

Josh explains how this course can help students better understand the psychological motivations in choosing certain behaviours over others in wildlife settings and interactions.

Because the topic is so broad, Josh found it challenging to wrangle his ideas into a manageable course – and this is where he appreciated help from CTLI and the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL).

Through personalized guidance, and access to SoTL, Josh was able to focus his idea into meaningful and digestible content. This will ultimately enable students to graduate with practical, applicable skills for their industry.

During the podcast, Josh and Donna mention: 

• The Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL)
• E19: How the Trades Fosters Critical Thinking and Lifelong Learning in the Community (Josh’s last appearance on the LITL-Pod)
• Scenic Drive, Lethbridge Alberta (this roadway connects north and south Lethbridge)
• Runner’s Soul
  • ExploreYQL
• Waterton Biosphere Region
  • Alberta invests in program to stop grizzlies from wandering onto farms (CBC News)
• Banff bear attack 2023 (Trigger warning: this article contains details that may be disturbing)
• Tim’s – Tim Hortons
• Centre for Teaching, Learning, and Innovation (CTLI)
• ChatGPT
• Jaddon Park
• Brianne Hutchinson
• Alberta Parks
• CBC – Canadian Broadcasting Corporation
• Environmental Psychology and Conservation will be an elective course for the following Lethbridge College programs:
  • General Arts and Science
  • Natural Resource Compliance (NRC)
  • Conservation Enforcement – Bachelor of Applied Science
  • Environmental Sciences degree programs
• Environmental Psychology and Conservation is housed in CBAS – Cognitive-Behavioural Avoidance Scale
• Social Psychology definition (American Psychological Association)
• Are you an instructor who is interested in building a course? You might be eligible for the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning. Reach out to CTLI to chat!

Nelson Lateeph, host of Under The Bridge – Tha Podcast, sits down with Donna and Jordana to talk about his experience moving to Lethbridge with his family from Cape Town, South Africa.

Nelson is passionate about social development in the city, and has some practical ideas on how international students (and newcomers in general) can get more involved with their community to foster a greater sense of joy and belonging.

During this conversation, Donna, Nelson, and Jordana mention:

• Under The Bridge – Tha Podcast
• Cape Town, South Africa
• Motivational speaker in Lethbridge – Kimberly Lyall: Life Is An Adventure | Under The Bridge Tha Podcast | Ep.09
• Downtown Lethbridge: Festival Square
• BRZ – Business Revitalization Zone
• Heart of Our City Committee
• Lethbridge Soccer Association
• University of Lethbridge
• Black History Month
• African diaspora
• Pan-Africanism
• Malcolm X
• Martin Luther King Jr.
• Rosa Parks
• Creative videographer & mentor – Michael Worf: Coalbanks’ Love Letter To Lethbridge | Under The Bridge Tha Podcast | Ep.05
• Temptations restaurant, Bar, Lounge & Nightclub
• CASA
• The Galt Museum & Archives
• SAE – Southern Alberta Ethnic Association (Multicultural Centre)
• Gatsby (sandwich)
• “If the mountain will not come to Mohammed, Mohammed will go to the mountain” essentially means: “If things aren’t going your way, you’ll have to adjust the way they are.”
• Jarred Garrick from ROVÜ: Spaces That Inspire | Under The Bridge Tha Podcast | Ep.02

In this thought-provoking episode, we recognize Black History Month (BHM) with a meaningful panel discussion featuring Lethbridge College students: Sharon Boit, Susan Samaila, and Raihau-Milz Izonyobore.

The trio discuss the significance of BHM events at the college, and share heart-felt dialogue about black culture and identity, including influences like language, education, tradition, and intersectionality.

During the episode, Sharon, Susan, Raihau, and Donna (host) mention:

• List of BHM events at Lethbridge College
• LCSA – Lethbridge College Student Association
• General Arts and Science – Pre-Social Work Major planning guide
• Administrative Office Professional program at Lethbridge College
• Criminal Justice – Policing program at Lethbridge College
• How to make Nigerian scrambled eggs (3-minute video)
• BHM meal kit pickup – Eastern African meal (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, Congo, Sudan)
  • Register for a meal kit HERE
• Kenya (Google Maps)
• Utamaduni Day – a celebration of all the cultures in Kenya
• Cultural appropriation
• Mursik (fermented milk)
• Nigeria (Google Maps)
• FGM – Female genital mutilation
• Burundi (Google Maps)
• Intersectionality
• International Services at Lethbridge College
• Third Places (spaces)
• The Cave – a safe, inclusive student hangout spot at the college
  • Thirsty Thursday
• Diwali: Festival of Lights
• Lethbridge Buchanan Library
• Wellness Services at Lethbridge College
• LCSA Food bank for students
• East African Pilau – Kenyan pilau
• Nigerian Jollof Rice
• Kenyan Chapati | Chapo recipe
• Canadian Pow Wow calendar
• Grand Prairie Police Service

Alexander McEwan, an aspiring K-12 teacher set to graduate with his bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of Lethbridge, shares about his unique teaching practicum last semester at Chinook High School.

Along with running an AI research project, Alex explored creative ways to introduce his students to generative AI. Using tools like Class Companion and ChatGPT, Alex showed his students how to simplify dense text, clarify concepts through metaphors and analogies, and assess their knowledge through interactive conversations with AI – i.e., his “AI Socratic Seminar Assignment”.

Alex goes into depth about this experimental assignment that, through a creative ChatGPT prompt, sparked conversations that helped students think critically and get targeted real-time feedback.

During the podcast, Alex and Donna (host) mention: 

• University of Lethbridge
  • Bachelor of Education
• Chinook High School in Lethbridge, Alberta
• Generative AI – a category of artificial intelligence that creates new content, such as text, images, or music, by learning patterns from existing data and generating output that is similar or inspired by that data.
• Class Companion
• ChatGPT
• Socrates
• OpenAI
• French Revolution
• Alex’s AI Socratic Seminar Assignment ChatGPT prompt to assess students’ understanding: As an expert in the Socratic method, assess my knowledge and understanding by asking me one question at a time about _______. Ask me a series of questions to measure my understanding of _______. Ask follow-up questions when I show shallow understanding or vagueness in my response. Once you are confident you know my level of understanding, please stop the conversation and give me some productive feedback on my responses. Do you understand? 
• Treaty of Versailles
• Academic integrity – the ethical practice of honesty, fairness, and ethical conduct in all aspects of academic work, including research, writing, and assessments, to uphold the values and standards of educational institutions.
• “Ableist” refers to discriminatory attitudes, behaviors, or beliefs that discriminate against or marginalize individuals with disabilities, reinforcing prejudices or stereotypes about their abilities and worth.
• “Burstiness” in AI – the phenomenon where a system or model produces a sudden and concentrated burst of responses, often due to the presence of specific input patterns or triggers, rather than maintaining a consistent or balanced output (read Sherice Jacob’s article: Perplexity and Burstiness in Writing).
• 21st-century learner – an individual who embraces digital literacy, critical thinking, adaptability, and collaboration skills to effectively navigate and succeed in the evolving and technology-driven learning environments of the 21st century.
• PIP – Professional Inquiry Project
• Destination Exploration (University of Lethbridge science camp)
• Piikani Nation
• Kainai Nation – Blood Tribe

“Recognize that unlearning is the highest form of learning.” – Rumi

Liz Cernigoy, chair of Lethbridge College’s nursing program, and nursing instructor Danielle Aitkens expand on the recent effort to rebuild the college’s nursing curriculum with a focus on EDI. The pair explore ideas around how we teach, and how students learn so that more learning styles can be accommodated.

By teaching from a place of humility, Liz and Danielle hope to graduate students who will not only flourish as professionals and affect positive changes in their communities, but also recognize their inherent biases, and stretch their thinking as they grow and evolve as people.

During the podcast, Liz, Danielle, and Donna (host) mention: 

• TRC – Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada
• University of Lethbridge
• Intersectionality
• EDI – Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
• Health and Wellness Programs at Lethbridge College
• Alberta Health Services
• Covenant Health
• CASN – Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing
• The CASN Biennial Canadian Nursing Education Conference 2023
• STATEMENT– CASN apologizes to Indigenous peoples of Canada for colonial harms resulting from nursing education (Dec. 11. 2023)
• NESA – Nursing Education in Southwestern Alberta (Bachelor of Nursing)
• White privilege
• Story Theory (journal article)
• Tokenism
• Hi-Fi (high-fidelity) Simulation
• Gamification
• Talking Circles (journal article)
• Land-based learning
• Indigenous Policing Microcredentials
  • Listen to how these microcredentials were developed on E:48
• Niitsitapi (Blackfoot Confederacy)
• Positionality (statement)

Jaclyn Doherty, dean of Lethbridge College’s Centre for Teaching, Learning, and Innovation, celebrates our 50th episode with us! She and Donna commiserate over past episodes and discuss the evolving strategies that influence Jackie’s efforts to foster an agile and collaborative culture within CTLI.

This episode is dedicated to our dear friend and colleague, Melissa Reed Boogaart. She was a warm and loving person whom we’ll greatly miss. This one’s for you, Melissa. <3

During the episode, Jackie and Donna mention: 

• Most-memorable episodes:
  • E12: Bonus episode – 16 Hours more Innovative but 40% Wrong (Ben O’Hara and Tim Moss Australia CTL)
  • E11: Workplace Integrated Learning (WIL), Virtual and Augmented Reality, and creating environments to thrive in (Eric and Spencer with their instructor, Kris Hodgeson-Bright)
  • E41: How ChatGPT is Evolving the Way We Teach and Assess Academic Writing (Dr. Alec Couros)
  • E38: STUDENT PANEL – Cherishing the Cultural and Community Connections of Black History Month (Black History Month student panel interview)
  • E39: A Critical Look at ChatGPT in Education – How Natural Language Processors are Shifting Our Perspective on Teaching, Learning and Assessments (Dr. Brenda McDermott on AI and academic integrity)
  • E47: Updates in STEM – Sparking real-world connections between K-12 and the Trades to foster early career passions (STEM project)
  • E49: Generative AI and instructional design: Emphasizing the process of learning over the product of learning (Kristin and Craig talking about generative AI)
• Jackie’s doctoral dissertation: A Blueprint for Promoting Innovation, Interdisciplinary Teamwork, and Collaboration
• Western University
• Lewin’s 3-Stage Model of Change Theory: Overview
• Design Thinking
• Systems Thinking
• ChatGPT
• Educause
  • Horizon Reports
• Future Today Institute
• LinkedIn Learning
• Reskilling in the Age of AI (Harvard Business Review)
• Begin with Trust by Frances X. Frei and Anne Morriss (Trust Triangle = Logic + Authenticity + Empathy)

Kristin Bond and Craig McCarthy, instructional designers at Lethbridge College, join the pod to talk about their experimentation using generative AI to help build course rubrics. The pair discuss how ChatGPT saves hours on tedious, low-level tasks, and creates opportunities for more creative, higher-level thinking in course development.

Craig and Kristin pose thoughtful questions about a more reflective learning process, and how, through open dialogue, instructors and students can navigate how to use generative AI, both in project work and in assessment methods.

During the recording, Craig, Kristin, and Donna (host) mention:

• UDL – Universal Design for Learning
• University of Lethbridge
• SAMR – Substitution, augmentation, modification, redefinition
• SAMR and AI Chatbots
• Grammarly
• Teaching Writing with Generative AI by Leon Furze (how generative AI is shifting how English instructors are grading writing)
• John Dewey’s Learning Theory: How We Learn Through Experience (the process of learning vs product of learning comes from John Dewy’s teaching philosophy)
• AI: the New Electricity? by Dr. Phillipa Hardman (she discussed reframing how we think of AI, not as technology but more as an infrastructure)
• Prompt engineering – giving generative AI context (such as a role) for what you’re asking. For example, a prompt could be: “You’re a marine biologist working on Vancouver Island. What are your top 5 climate change concerns regarding your industry?” Generally, the more context you can provide, the better your generative AI output will be.
• Try out Chat GPT! It’s so easy to try, and your experiments might surprise you. You could start with a prompt as simple as: “Hey it’s my first time here. Tell me what to ask you!”

Trudi Mason, dean of Justice and Human Services; Lowell Yellowhorn, manager of Indigenous services, and Mark Smallbones, instructor and placement advisor with the School of Justice Studies, discuss the massive community effort in developing Lethbridge College’s Indigenous Policing Microdcredentials.

This six-course suite was created by several key stakeholders with unique lenses, including members of the Siksikaitsitapi (Blackfoot Confederacy), Métis Nation, and Blood Tribe Police Service. These microcredentials are helping public safety officers (and anyone who takes them) better understand, empathize with, and serve Indigenous communities in southern Alberta.

During the episode, Trudi, Lowell, Mark, and Donna (host) mention:

• Indigenous Policing Microcredentials Suite:
  • History, Culture, and Reconciliation
  • Trust, Respect, and Communication
  • Human Trafficking
  • Intimate Partner Violence & Abuse of Elderly Persons
  • Sexual Abuse and Missing Persons
  • Drugs and Addictions in Indigenous Communities
• Blackfoot Confederacy
• Métis Nation
• Blood Tribe
• Blood Tribe Police Service
• Rolf Inquiry
• Inikiikawaiks – the people who go and catch people; catching people. This is a Blackfoot term some people use to describe the police
• RCMP – Royal Canadian Mounted Police
• Piikani Nation
  • Lone Fighter challenges (Lone Fighters divert Oldman)
  • LNID – Lethbridge Northern Irrigation District
• The Cardston Blockade of 1980 (2-minute news report)
• Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump World Heritage Site
• Sundance: Blackfoot spirituality from a member of the Horn Society on Face to Face
• Red Crow College
• Kainai Peacemaking Center Sod Turning Ceremony (3-minute video)
• Stand Off, Alberta
• Chief Mountain (located in Montana, US, and visible from southern Alberta)
• TRC – Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada
• Generational trauma refers to the emotional, psychological, or social wounds and adverse effects passed down through successive generations, often resulting from significant and traumatic events experienced by a community, family, or cultural group.
• Emotional Survival for Law Enforcement: A Guide for Officers and Their Families by Kevin M. Gilmartin
• FTO – Field Training Officer
• Dene
• Cree

Trudi, Lowell, Mark, and Donna thank everyone involved with the creation of the Indigenous Policing Microcredentials, including elders and Indigenous community members, Blood Tribe Police Service and leadership, Lethbridge College Indigenous Services and faculty, and finally, the Government of Alberta.

Warren Anderson and Spencer Wenzel from Westwind School Division, and Eric Mitchell, an automotive instructor from Lethbridge College, share how the STEM collaboration has evolved between Westwind School Division and the college.

The trio discuss their roles in the collab, and dive into detail on the resources they’re developing – specifically the STEM kits that are helping to make learning sticky for students. These kits are categorized into three tiers, including demo kits, tool kits, and project kits, and they offer learners practical examples to help build deeper conceptual learning.

During the podcast, Warren, Spencer, Eric, and Donna (host) mention:

• STEM at Lethbridge College
• Westwind School Division
• LITL-Pod E28: K-12 STEM Collaboration – Supporting Authentic Learning Experiences through the Trades
• Centre for Trades at Lethbridge College
• Wind Turbine Technician at Lethbridge College
• Carpentry Apprenticeship at Lethbridge College
• Welding Apprenticeship at Lethbridge College
• Plumber Apprenticeship at Lethbridge College
• Culinary Arts at Lethbridge College
• Heavy Equipment Technician Apprenticeship at Lethbridge College
• Agriculture Equipment Technician Apprenticeship at Lethbridge College
• Agricultural and Heavy Equipment Technician at Lethbridge College
• Electrician Apprenticeship at Lethbridge College
• Oersted’s compass demonstration (2½ -minute video)
• Ohm’s law states that the current flowing through a conductor is directly proportional to the voltage across it and inversely proportional to the resistance.
• Want to talk about STEM/STEAM? Have feedback on the kits or suggestions on more we should add to our STEM site? We want to hear from you! Send an email to stem@lethbridgecollege.ca

Kelly Thompson, Lethbridge College business instructor, is making waves in the third iteration of her project management class–where students are building, managing and implementing group projects (typically fundraisers for local charities).

Kelly is joined by her former student, Josh Helmer, and the pair discuss the far-reaching impacts this hands-on teaching style has for learners, instructors, and the community as a whole.

During the podcast, Kelly, Josh, and Donna mention: 

• Lethbridge College Business Administration 
• University of Lethbridge
• Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charity
• Boys & Girls Club Lethbridge
• Lethbridge Foodbank
• Aha moment 
• WBS – work breakdown structure
• Interested in implementing student-led learning projects in your classroom? Reach out to Kelly Thompson to chat!

Marni Hope Miisomii’kitsikaakii (Long Time Offering), Lethbridge College’s Indigenous student support and events coordinator, shares about Truth and Reconciliation events happening around campus. Marni emphasizes the far-reaching impacts of these efforts, and ways we can personalize and practice applying Truth and Reconciliation principles daily.

During the podcast, Marni and guest-host, Jordana, mention: 

• Winter Count Robe 
• Lethbridge Kodiaks Indigenous Logo
  • Kodiaks Athletics
• Lethbridge College Culinary Arts Program
• Lethbridge College Culinary Services
• Bannock
• Fry bread
• ELT – Executive Leadership Team
• Piikani Nation
• Blackfoot Confederacy
  • Blackfoot Confederacy Flag
• Trades Building, Cousins Building (view locations on a Lethbridge College virtual tour)
  • Hubbard Collection virtual tour
• Indigenous Services at Lethbridge College
• William Singer 3rd biography
• Innii is the Blackfoot word meaning Buffalo
• Interactive map of residential schools in North America
• Wider Horizons Fall 2023: The New Buffalo –> be sure to pick up a hard copy at the college or around the city of Lethbridge!
• Sundance – Blackfoot spirituality from a member of the Horn Society on Face to Face
• Video: We Are Aikowania
  • This logo won a CCAA Innovation Award
• Bones of Crows
• 94 Calls to Action
• Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada
• Tokenism (according to Cambridge Dictionary): something that a person or organization does that seems to support or help a group of people who are treated unfairly in society, such as giving a member of that group an important or public position, but which is not meant to make changes that would help that group of people in a lasting way.
• Niitsitapi Proficiency Microcredential -> reflect on the history of Indigenous Peoples in Canada

Rosemary Shannon, Instructor and Chair of Lethbridge College’s Massage Therapy Program, shares her use of narrative instruction that’s bringing learning to life for her students. Rosemary uses illustrative language to guide her students in developing hands-on skills from day one. This method not only saves Rosemary hours in demonstration time, but it’s also helping her students gain confidence in establishing a practice that’s uniquely their own.

References:

• Massage Therapy Program at Lethbridge College
• Draping (in massage therapy) uses sheets, towels, or blankets to cover and expose only the specific areas of the body being worked on while maintaining the client’s comfort, privacy, and modesty.
• Effleurage is a massage technique characterized by long, gliding strokes using the palms or fingertips, typically used as a gentle and relaxing introductory movement.
• Malcolm Gladwell popularized that achieving expert-level proficiency in a field typically requires around 10,000 hours (about one year and one and a half months) of deliberate practice, as highlighted in his book, Outliers: The Story of Success.
• Coaldale, Alberta
• Want to join a narrative instruction community of practice? Connect with Rosemary Shannon!

Dr. Tai Munro, Sustainability Professor at MacEwan University, and Dr. Jaddon Park, Educational Development Specialist at Lethbridge College, share how sustainability is a common throughline connecting us all – from agriculture to accounting! Tai and Jaddon discuss the social and cultural implications of striving for holistic sustainability, and how it can empower both instructors and students to see beyond ‘the triple bottom line’ and into a space of community, multiculturalism and Systems Thinking.

References

• MacEwan University
• SDGs – Sustainable Development Goals
• Systems Thinking
• Competencies for Advancing Transformations Towards Sustainability
• Student Core Competencies
• Greenest School in Nepal
• Triple Bottom Line
• Three Pillars of Sustainability
• Alternative Grading
• CoP – Community of Practice

Guests from Lethbridge College gather to share about an innovative Peer-to-Peer Mentorship initiative from the college’s Learning Café and Student Affairs. Laura Coad (she/her), Integrated Support Specialist/Academic Writing Strategist, Elizabeth Eremenko (she/her), Academic Strategist Math and Science, and Kelly Bari (she/her), Coordinator First Year Experience, discuss how this initiative is supporting both mentors and mentees in creating a space of belonging, connection – and soft-skills development.

References:

• Criminal Justice Policing – CJ
• Bachelor of Nursing (NESA)
  • NESA: Nursing Education in Southwestern Alberta
• Kodiaks Athletics
• CAST – Center for Applied Special Technology
• Student Affairs
• Learning Café
• Student Core Competencies
• SAIT – Southern Alberta Institute of Technology
• Laura’s reference to the article about salespeople versus peers: Why peer mentoring is an effective approach for promoting college student success

Dr. Lindy Ledohowski, COO at Wizeprep, Dr. Alec Couros, educational technology & media professor at the University of Regina, and Tatiana Kloster, faculty development lead and academic student support lead from Lethbridge College join the podcast! The trio discusses the good, the bad, and the exciting potential ChatGPT is creating in our teaching and learning ecosystems. They pose thoughtful questions on intelligently integrating language models into the curriculum – not only to accommodate learners and facilitate critical thinking but to mitigate limitations and address ethical implications this technology inherently brings with it.

Seanna Uglem (Career Development Coordinator) and Tanya Weder (Multimedia Production Instructor) join us from Lethbridge College to shed light on the importance of the Student Core Competencies (SCCs) and how learners are naturally developing these critical life skills within curriculum. SCCs (such as critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, communication, etc.) are among the soft skills employers are looking for in future employees, and so, integrating SCCs into curriculum is equipping learners for greater professional success as they transition into the workforce.

Dr. Brenda McDermott, Manager of Accessible Testing at the University of Calgary joins us to discuss her team’s research project – Artificial Intelligence and Academic Integrity: The Ethics of Teaching and Learning with Algorithmic Writing Technologies. Dr. McDermott shares her thoughts on the possibilities of how AI text generators like ChatGPT have the potential to empower – but also seriously hinder – learners, especially when considering equity, diversity and inclusion.

Students Alaina Tolman, Amy-Lee Lateeph, Jojo Kariuki, and Stefan Joseph gather around the mic to discuss Black History Month and how it has shaped them as BIPOC students. The guests emphasize the importance of honouring and celebrating the efforts and accomplishments of those who came before, and consider how they will forge their own identities in the college community and beyond.

Andie Hanson (she/her), Access Specialist from Lethbridge College, shares on new software her department is piloting called Accommodate by Simplicity. This tech shows promise in helping to better support students challenged by disabilities, as well as streamlining workflow for staff and faculty. Innovative solutions like this are one of the many steps being taken to help level the playing field for all learners at Lethbridge College.

Camina Weasel Moccasin (Indigenous Curator at the Lethbridge Galt Museum and Archives), Kris Hodgson-Bright (Lethbridge College faculty member) and Nelson Rabbit (Lethbridge College student alumnus) share their work in retelling the story of the Battle of Belly River from a) a Blackfoot perspective and b) the lens of virtual and augmented reality. It’s been a major endeavour for the group, with challenges and triumphs along the way! The trio speaks about last year’s 152nd-anniversary event and the importance of honouring and respecting the varied Indigenous perspectives of this epic story.

Brad Donaldson, president and CEO of Lethbridge College, joins us to talk about leadership, learning, and the nature of innovation. In this down-to-earth conversation, Brad expands on the beauty of approaching every opportunity with a mindset of curiosity and ‘purposeful experimentation’. We learn about his leadership goals, his ‘WHY’ at the college, and we hear about some of Brad’s favourite, newly discovered spots in the city he now calls home: Lethbridge!

In this special panel-style episode, a full roster of guests joins us to talk about their joint passion: Makerspaces! Guests share about their challenges, triumphs – and of course, the exciting new developments in these “innovation incubators”. The VIP list includes Jessie Sorenson from Lethbridge College, Jon Newman from Olds College, Rob Horlacher from the University of Lethbridge, and Rich McCue from the University of Victoria!

Kris Hodgson-Bright, a faculty member from Lethbridge College, shares about his applied research project: Immersive Storytelling on the Battle of Belly River. Kris collaborated with Indigenous Elders, student alumni, faculty, and other key community members to build this powerful medium that will help bring forward the Indigenous perspective on this iconic historic event.

Lowell Yellowhorn, manager of Indigenous Services at Lethbridge College joins us to talk about Global Citizenship and how some Elders and Indigenous leaders view post-secondary education as the ‘New Buffalo’. Lowell delves into the history of what the buffalo meant to the Blackfoot people and shares his thoughts on how higher education is vital for better, brighter futures for the next generation – especially for Indigenous peoples.

Rich McCue, manager of the University of Victoria’s Libraries Digital Scholarship Commons, joins us to talk about Makerspaces in academia. Makerspaces are physical places where students, staff and faculty are free to experiment, explore ideas – and make some pretty cool stuff! They support active learning and promote innovation in everything from eco-friendly products to more immersive Dungeons and Dragons experiences!

Tune in, hit play and get inspired as Danielle Simard, an instructor in the Centre for Business, Arts and Sciences at Lethbridge College, and one of her students, Tracy Sjovold, discuss the impact of student-led assessments. This innovative, authentic assessment method is showing promise in fostering real-world life skills, not only in developing critical thinking and promoting more active learning but also in holding students accountable to empower their own learning experiences.

Tune in, hit play and get inspired as Melanie Hamilton, Lethbridge College’s SoTL research lead (and Chair of SoTL Canada!) shares about her favourite four-letter word: SoTL! This scholarship not only clarifies research and makes it more accessible, but also helps instructors renew and reform their teaching strategies. All it takes is a dash of passion and a splash of curiosity – and you can spark your very own research project, with all the support you need from the friendly SoTL community.

Tune in, hit play and get inspired as we learn all about the unique and promising K-12 STEM Collaboration project between Lethbridge College (LC) and Westwind School Division. Guests Kevin Wiber (the college’s Associate Dean of Trades), Joelle Reynolds (learning experience designer from LC’s Centre for Teaching, Learning and Innovation (CTLI), Brianne Hutchinson (instructional designer from CTLI at LC), and Warren Anderson (educator at Magrath Elementary School from the Westwind School Division) expand on their roles in the project, and how this collab is providing educators with resources to support authentic learning experiences through the Trades in the Sciences, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects.

Tune in, hit play, and get inspired in this extended Tech Talks episode as Tyler Wall and Jordana Gagnon banter about Tech tools that you can use today. Today’s tech focus is on tools that take our reality and digitize it. During the podcast, Tyler shows Jordana tools that are currently in the marketplace.

Here is a list some of those tools:
Colmap Free
Meshroom Free
Zepher Free’ish

Tune in, hit play, and get inspired as Tyler Wall and Jordana Gagnon banter about Tech tools that you can use today. Today’s tech focus is on news tech tools for sanity, balance and wellness. During the podcast, Tyler shows Jordana tools that are currently in the marketplace.

Here is a list of those tools:
1440
ALLSIDES – Balanced News
Ground news
Charlie
SocialBubble

Tune in, hit play and get inspired as we hear from Dr. Paula Burns, President & CEO of Lethbridge College in this very special podcast episode. Prompted by questions and comments from staff, students and faculty, Paula speaks about her experiences at Lethbridge College over the past nine years. She talks about the importance of creating capacity for change, the beauty of perspective (especially in viewing challenges as opportunities), and the characteristics of good leadership.

Tune in, hit play and get inspired as Simon Schaerz (instructor in the Centre for Business, Arts and Science) and Amanda Mohamed (a student researcher in the Exercise Science program) talk about their passion for movement! Through research and work-integrated learning, Simon and Amanda are exploring how immersive technology can inspire lasting and accessible fitness – especially in youth.

Tune in, hit play, and get inspired as Kirby England (Environmental Sciences instructor) and Lowell Yellowhorn (Indigenous Services interim manager) share their efforts in braiding Indigenous knowledge and western science into Lethbridge College’s Environmental Science curriculum. Kirby and Lowell talk about the rich history of traditional ecological knowledge, the power of language in preserving local culture, and how relationship-building is key to traditional ways of learning and knowing.

Tune in, hit play, and get inspired as Benjamin Northcott — faculty member and practice coordinator for the NESA Bachelor of Nursing Programs at Lethbridge College — talks about new curriculum developments. Drawing from a variety of social theories and practices, he touches on the challenge of distilling and designing information into deliverable, accessible and measurable methods. Benjamin’s passion for improving the student experience shines through, and it’s his mission to help learners master foundational skills and practices to influence long and happy careers in the nursing field.

Tune in, hit play, and get inspired as Shanda Webber, Manager of Indigenous Services at Lethbridge College, talks with Donna about Lethbridge College’s Niitsitapi Strategy that will launch on March 18, 2021. The conversation will travel through several important topics and themes related to the strategy, its origins and development. Topics such as Indigenous education and pedagogy, and the term Indigenization, as well as community building, engagement, mutual understanding, mutual appreciation, and Indigenous perspectives on innovation.

Tune in, hit play, and get inspired as Tyler Wall, Digital Learning Specialist, talks with Donna about innovation and his approach to problem solving and helping Lethbridge College instructors find digital solutions to particular problems.

Tune in, hit play, and get inspired to leave your comfort zone with these two passionate educators. Murray was a cop for a hundred years and Kirsten researches intrinsic motivation. Together, they completed a promising study on the effects of gamification and motivation in adult learners. Kirsten is always happy to collaborate and her email is kirsten.fantazir@lethbridgecollege.ca

Tune in, hit play, and get inspired as Dr. Amy Hodgson-Bright talks with Donna about her path to Lethbridge College, her passion for literature and innovative teaching, HyFlex, and bustin’ moves on the weekend! 

Tune in, hit play, and get inspired as Donna talks with Allen Ledyit (Instructor, Child and Youth Care, Lethbridge College) about passionate teaching and learning, supporting people through personal crises, building community, and…bagpipes!

Tune in, hit play, and get inspired as Donna and Erin, Associate Dean of Lethbridge College’s CTLI, discuss everything from flexible learning and student micro-credentials to competitive dog dancing.

This episode was produced by Donna McLaughlin and Mike Smith.