Newcomers to Canada struggle with multiple barriers in navigating through everyday life in Canadian culture. In addition to barriers such as language, culture shock, and feelings of isolation, they have the
additional hardship of studying to pass the citizenship test. The Discover Canada study guide is a free resource for newcomers to use when studying for the citizenship test. However, it is far from being a
learner friendly, student-centred resource as it is heavy in text and void of engaging activities to promote knowledge retention.
This project was designed to allow an engaging and interactive learning experience for newcomers to Canada seeking to undertake the citizenship test. The project addresses a need for a learner-friendly information source that breaks down information from the Discover Canada study guide into digestible, interactive portions allowing newcomers to experience more effective knowledge retention and enjoyment in learning about Canada.
Our design project not only aids newcomers in passing the citizenship test but also fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of Canadian culture, thereby promoting cultural exchange and mutual respect. By equipping new Canadians with the knowledge and skills needed to integrate into Canadian society, we contribute to an inclusive and globally connected community. Moreover, our emphasis on interactive and participatory learning reflects educational trends that emphasize collaboration and critical thinking, skills essential to succeeding in a globalized world. Through these efforts, our project endeavours to contribute positively to the broader goals of globalization by facilitating smoother transitions and fostering a sense of belonging among newcomers in Canada.
Our project endeavours to contribute positively to the broader goals of globalization by facilitating smoother transitions and fostering a sense of belonging among newcomers in Canada.
The three-module course focuses on specific topics and includes many opportunities for active learning
otherwise not possible by solely reading the Discover Canada study guide. Interactive questions, prompts, and assessments in each module allow newcomers to reflect on the material and get a sense of their learning progress. Additionally, users will have the opportunity to collaborate and share ideas as they engage in an online learning community.
Within the topic of Canadian history, learners should gain conceptual knowledge of key periods and events in Canadian history, including but not limited to the history of Indigenous people in Canada, the war of 1812, abolition of slavery, and Confederation. Learners should also retain basic conceptual knowledge of important Canadian symbols, such as the maple leaf, the beaver, and the coat of arms. Lastly, learners will obtain conceptual knowledge on Canada’s regions, including Canada’s national capital, provinces and territories, and population.
The name “Project Beyond” was chosen for this design space for four distinct reasons:
- Learners have moved beyond their borders
- Learning takes place beyond the textbook
- Learning takes place beyond the test; and
- Integration in Canada goes beyond immigration.
Project Concept Planning
Project Proposal
To learn more about our design project and the research references, see the attached documents.