A delegation of 26 teachers from Xuzhou College of Industrial Technology, People’s Republic of China is visiting Loyalist College from August 3rd to 20th. The purpose of the visit is to provide the Chinese delegates with exposure to Canadian teaching, course design and delivery methodologies.
“Xuzhou College is here to expand their knowledge of western approaches to adult education to continue to meet the needs of their students,” explained Jake Sandison, Coordinator of Teaching and Learning at Loyalist College. “We are delivering a condensed workshop that focuses on curriculum design and alignment, performance assessment, engaging learners and academic technology. This was delivered to a cohort from Xuzhou last summer and was very well received. It is a great opportunity for cultural exchange and to share common challenges and opportunities that exist in both respective systems. Despite the language barrier (and working through a translator), one thing is quite clear – that the passion that teachers have to be the best they can for their students is universal.”
In addition to the extensive training program, the College has organized activities and opportunities to enhance the delegates’ visit to Canada. Tours of Belleville City Hall and local manufacturing plants are planned. The guests will be taken on weekend excursions to Toronto, Niagara Falls, Montreal, Ottawa and The Thousand Islands.
Catherine O’Rourke, Acting Vice-President Enrolment Management and Student Services, said that Loyalist continues to participate in opportunities which encourage globalization of our campus. “We are pleased to have this delegation of faculty from Xuzhou College participate in a three-week training program. As part of their program Chinese professors will have an opportunity to explore Canadian teaching philosophies and participate in cultural experiences. This is the second year for this professional international exchange and one which we hope will continue in the future. Xuzhou College currently offers Chinese students a number of program options under the Loyalist College banner. Our reputation as a world leader in college education continues to grow as a result of these exciting initiatives.”
Media Contact: Marilyn Warren, Communications, Loyalist College (613) 969-1913, ext. 2332; e-mail: mwarren@loyalistc.on.ca, Jodie Russett, Acting International Advisor, (613) 969-1913, ext. 2146