2023 Forum Presentations

It’s tempting to say that our students today are markedly different than they were even five years ago, but what if they are a product of the world around them? This session will explore contemporary topics such as mental health, social media, disability, as well as current research and promising practices on student health, well-being, and success inside & outside the classroom. Come meet our students in this interactive session.

How do we go about developing a micro-credential in a timely manner without overloading the sides of too many desks? This presentation will describe and examine the development template used at VCC to take a micro-credential from concept to classroom in four months. We will explore team structure, industry collaboration, budget and timeline considerations, as well as a list of lessons worth incorporating for future developments.

What does it mean to be a good leader? How do you lead with integrity? Is there a difference between leading and managing? Filled with practical examples (positive and negative!), this workshop explores the qualities and behaviours that make a good leader and manager. We’ll draw some practical leadership and organizational tips you can use daily, including important topics such as how to delegate effectively, and empower your reports as self-directed professionals.

How can we navigate divisive topics in the classroom, without avoiding them altogether? How can we discuss different viewpoints openly, yet with sensitivity and skill?   The Courageous Dialogues research team will demystify the dynamic of polarization as we understand it so far, and will offer five promising practices toward bridging divide.

Storyteller and artist Anona Kampe is the granddaughter of the late Rachel and Basil Paul from the Penticton Indian Band, a member community of the Syilx Okanagan Nation. Anona shares Okanagan culture and history through stories. “I come from an oral society. Traditionally we did not have a written language. We learned everything through our stories, which are called captikʷł.”  

An examination of current immigration trends and policies provides us with insights into where newcomers are settling in BC and how we can work together to bridge integration and community. When we know who is coming to BC, where they are settl)ing, and what skills and assets they come with, we can work together to ensure that services and educational opportunities are available to support their integration process.

In late 2023 or early 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will be launching a Call for Proposal (CFP) for 5 years of funding. Later this summer, the Ministry of Municipal Affairs will be launching a Request for Proposal (RFP) for 3 years of funding through the BC Settlement and Integration Services stream.

In 2022, UFV Continuing Education implemented the CanCred Digital Badging Platform. This presentation will provide an overview of the overall project as well as lessons learned. This presentation will be of interest to those contemplating a similar implementation.

Through this presentation we will explore key learnings from the College of New Caledonia's programs in Kwadacha Nation (10 hours North of Prince George).

The presentation provides a few examples of transitioning funded contract programs to tuition-based regular offerings.

Bob Haugen is currently the Director of Continuing Education and Contract Training at North Island College. Bob has spent the better part of the last 20 years in the college system and is in his sixth year at NIC. He is also involved in a solar energy non-profit, The Canadian Solar Cities Project, and advises Canadian municipalities on sustainable transformation.