CityStudio North Vancouver project integrates field studies and engagement
Field work in Mosquito Creek Park connects teaching, learning and community
Getting students beyond the classroom for experiential learning opportunities is a priority for Capilano University instructors. Earlier this week, first-year students in the Outdoor Recreation Management diploma program took their learning into North Vancouver’s Mosquito Creek Park for a CityStudio North Vancouver project with the City of North Vancouver and IMPACT North Shore.
“Students collaborated with a team of staff members from the City to co-create and facilitate an interpretative walk for newcomers,” said Katrina Driver, CityStudio project lead at Capilano University. “The goal of this activity was to increase ecological awareness and environmental education while supporting community engagement and stewardship for City of North Vancouver parks and greenways.”
The field studies outing focused on teaching and learning about invasive plants, native species and traditional ecological knowledge. It also gave students the opportunity to show case skills they have gained in the courses Rec 156 Natural History and Rec 152 Environmental Stewardship. Students also honed their interpretive teaching skills to engage and educate an audience that included new immigrants to the North Shore.
“The students shared how much they appreciated presenting outdoors, rather than within a classroom environment. They were far more comfortable and relaxed doing so,” said Roy Jantzen, instructor, School of Tourism Management at Capilano University. “Participants also responded how much they appreciated this event being brought into their community.”
The outing successfully integrated a CityStudio project into the classroom environment. A follow-up conversation has now started for work integrated learning opportunities with the City of North Vancouver for students from this program.
CityStudio is an experimentation and innovation hub where Capilano University students collaborate with City of North Vancouver staff and partners to co-create projects that make the city more vibrant, sustainable and healthy. Through the co-creation of experimental projects, students gain employable skills and city staff receive support to advance strategic priorities in the community.
Submitted by: Communications