How will courses developed at UBC be “transferred” to the actual UCA instructors? May 23-31, 2018, three UCA instructors visited UBC to interface with developers of the three prerequisite courses that will be taught for the first time in September 2018. This was a busy, but enjoyable opportunity to build collegial relationships between UBC and UCA generally, and to help UCA instructors take ownership of courses they will teach.
![](https://blogs.ubc.ca/eescourses/files/2018/07/may28-032_resize-300x205.jpg)
Here are the types of activities we engaged in for the week of “training”. A complete itinerary can be seen on a separate page.
- Attend free UBC professional development workshops about teaching and learning (much appreciated). Examples here and here.
- Observe UBC classes at prerequisite level (also much appreciated).
- Summer term means classes are double length compared to normal terms, which is consistent with some UCA scheduling. However, most are “large enrollment” (~150-250 students).
- For senior courses, this will not likely be possible outside of fall or spring terms, since UBC’s summer courses tend to focus on prerequisite capabilities (math, etc.)
- Meet UBC instructors or Science Education Specialists to discuss specific teaching strategies, pedagogies, or subject-specific issues (eg. math, chemistry, etc.) (Well worth while).
- Whole-group meetings to discuss curriculum, etc. Two, possibly three of these are probably adequate.
- One-on-one meetings with instructors and course developers. These are the most important and specific component of ‘training’.
- Private “study time” to review course materials before and after one-on-one discussions. Important to leave appropriate ½ day time slots in the first and second “thirds” of the visit.
- Social opportunities. Important; lunches are relaxed, 2-3 dinners involving the whole team, or at least sub-sets of the team. One evening event at a team-member’s home was also much appreciated.
- Down time: not study time (see above). A slow first 24hrs is recommended after long distance traveling. Two or three ½ days to see some of Vancouver worth while, and contribute to efficient, well-motivated training sessions.