ES 480 – Environment, Education and Political Change

I took this Environmental Studies course in the winter of 2011 at UVIC, when I was still on the trajectory of wanting to go to law school.  The readings and discussions from this course really inspired me to think about nature education as an alternative.  I fell in love with all the philosophical  arguments for caring for our children, for creating an education system that inspired and encouraged children to pursue their dreams, and to allow children to be free to play in nature (our greatest teacher).  I  kept one of the readings, a book titled “Last Child in the Woods” by Richard Louv, as a reminder how powerful and nourishing nature education is for all ages, and especially children now.

HSTR 328 – Indigenous-Settler Relations

I took this course in the fall of 2018 at UVIC when I was applying for the B.Ed programs and needed one more Canadian History class. I was not prepared to have my world blown!  I went into the class with an open mind and heart, feeling that I was pretty aware of Indigenous-settler relations in Canada and would have a lot to contribute.  I realized after the first class I had so much to learn!  The instructor and classmates were so encouraging and inspiring, the readings were mind-blowing, and the 3-hour class discussions went so deep it was a challenge to keep up.  I am so thankful I had this opportunity to learn more deeply about Indigenous-Settler relations in Canada and I know I will be bringing this knowledge, perspective, and humbleness with me into my teaching career.

Math 1901 – Principles of Mathematics for Elementary Teachers

I took this online Math course for teachers in the winter of 2019 through TRU, as a pre-requisite for the B.Ed program.  I was initially worried about taking math online, but I ended up loving the course and learning so much!  After the course I was so excited to teach math to students.  This course gave me the knowledge, practice, and tools I needed to feel confident and comfortable teaching K-8 math.   I will for sure be taking my learning from this course with into my teaching career.