This first blog post includes a brief introduction of the project, the organization involved, the community benefiting from the project, and the team.
UBC Learning Exchange
Source: http://www.learningexchange.ubc.ca
Organization
The UBC Learning Exchange was established to involve the university with the local community and to engage the university with the issues that the community faces. The Learning Exchange has organized and held many programs including English conversation sessions and computer skills workshops.
Our client contact at UBC Learning Exchange is Community Programs Manager, Mark Smith.
Project
The Learning Exchange is starting a new program called “Learning Lab” for the local community to take part in a variety of classes. A workspace is required for some classes that involve handicrafts activities like carving, sculpting etc. The Learning Exchange is modifying an existing carport so that it can also be used as a workshop space. This carport project is a continuation from a project from last year during which the students designed various elements of the renovation. This year’s project is to renovate and redesign the space by adding elements that can be used during the workshops. These elements should be as ‘green’ as possible and easily constructed so that local residents can be involved in the building process.
Community
The UBC Learning Exchange Carport is located in the Vancouver East Side (612 Main Street) and is targeted at benefiting local residents. The community comprises anyone interested in teaching or learning arts and crafts. The setup is designed to breakdown barriers and stereotypes by allowing anyone to display their strengths and have others broaden their abilities as a result. The project is also designed to bring the community together by having local residents do the construction and renovation of this space.
Team
The team’s first official meeting was held on Wednesday, January 23, 2013. All members were present and assigned a role:
Gerad – Leader/Organizer
Joseph – Client Liaison
Shana – Secretary
Willy – Blogger
Michael – Documentation Control/Blogger
Hassan El-Sherbiny, the team mentor, was present during the meeting and outlined the important aspects of the project. He will continue to guide the team, answer any questions, and ensure deadlines for goals are met.