In September 2013, The Business School launched two Collaborative Classrooms (each in a different campus) in order to provide students with a unique learning environment. Through a combination of structural, ergonomic and leading-edge technological adaptations, we have created a space that facilitates active peer-to-peer learning, extensive teamwork and inquiry-based learning.
While a diverse variety of courses are delivered in these classrooms, it is the new Career Advancement Strategies course that truly maximizes the wealth of resources available. Founded on more of a coaching model than a traditional teaching model, the course fundamentally alters the learning experience, better equipping students for their entry into the professional world of business. The course relies on a team-teaching approach that provides students with the opportunity to receive in-depth feedback and personalized guidance.
By focusing on the careers of their choice, learning becomes more personally meaningful for participants. Core content is delivered through a suite of custom-built e-learning modules, allowing in-class time to be devoted to the application of concepts learned. Students have the opportunity to speak with business leaders located anywhere in the world using the rooms’ advanced video conferencing facilities. Leveraging a studio model approach, students conduct extensive peer critiques of assignments, allowing them to benefit from diverse perspectives on their work and to build a true appreciation for the art of feedback. Instead of using a traditional approach to assignments, students engage in activities such as building infographics, creating videos, using social media tools, and even taking part in activities outside the classroom, such as interviews and business lunches.
In this session, participants will have an opportunity to “visit” a collaborative classroom via video conference. They will be able to review e-learning modules, watch video clips of peer critiquing sessions, see samples of student work, review several assignments, and gain hands-on experience using a Microsoft Surface tablet. They will also have the chance to find out what did not work as well as originally expected (in other words, our “lessons learned”). By the end of the session, participants will be able to apply transformative design concepts to their own learning spaces and courses.