Student Perspective Continuing Education Edition Globe and Mail

Perspe ctive

C

StudentPerspective.ca

ON T I NU

ING

EXPLORE EXPAND ENRICH

TM

ED

Continuing

Education can

Transform

N

U

CA IO T

your career

Employers Have Incentives Available To Help Retain Employees

Time to Join the Skills Revolution

6 Reasons Why Continuing Education Can Transform Your Career

START LEARNING WITH US THIS SPRING. GAIN NEW SKILLS. ADVANCE YOUR CAREER.

Explore the possibilities with Continuing Education at George Brown College Fit learning into your life easily with our evening, weekend and online courses.

Take advantage of our downtown Toronto campuses, or study from anywhere with our many distance learning options. Enjoy the flexibility of completing a program at your own pace.

CHOOSE FROM COURSES AND PROGRAMS IN Arts and Design Business and Legal Studies Communication and Languages Computers and Information Technology Construction and Trades Health Sciences and Community Services Hospitality and Culinary Arts Liberal Arts and Sciences Makeup and Esthetics

coned.georgebrown.ca Register now for spring courses!

It’s Your Turn. Continuing education will help you reach your goals.

M

your future. When you think about continuing education, consider these three categories: • You know precisely what you need.

A specific course that will help you advance your career.You will need to dig a bit deeper and search specific courses online to find out which curriculum, timing, locations and digital access will work best with your schedule.

• You have a good idea of a new career path or where you want to advance within your sector of work but need some guidance. Call, email or visit these fantastic Ontario Colleges or Universities and they will guide you in the proper direction.

• It would be best if you had a change. You want to turn your passion into a career or are looking to become a new entrepreneur but need help to guide you through your new career journey.

any of our careers fall into two categories. We enjoy the sector of work we are in and want to continue to improve and advance or we are keen to investigate new options to move forward.

No matter what phase that you are at, there are options to develop the skills and knowledge you need to progress and move forward.

Continuing education might be the tool you consider while investing in yourself.

Continuing education allows you to keep learning and developing by taking night, weekend or online courses. Many think they do not have the time to invest in continuing education.

Fortunately, continuing education opportunities have never been more available and accessible in Ontario. Take advantage of the information in these pages and the data available online to find out how you can better your career and find a more fulfilling and rewarding life. It’s your turn!

Continuing education faculties at Ontario Colleges and Universities are open to discuss

Continuing Education offices can help you do just that.

The demand for more online, in-class, or hybrid courses has made Ontario College and University continuing education programs accessible for certificate, degree or skills enhancement programs.

Are you looking for studies within health, technology, arts or literature? As more and more corporations look to challenge the status quo, innovation, technology and entrepreneurship factor in to the day to day operations.

Whether you are pursuing a higher level of education or exploring a new interest, courses are designed with your career and life aspirations in mind.

You can update your current skills or invest in new skills with flexible learning options.

Take your time, do your research, ask questions and prepare yourself to make that next step.

The beauty of continuing education is many courses launch monthly to accommodate your schedules and lifestyle. Time to take your career to the next level. Please visit StudentPerspective.ca for more information.

Perspective 1464 Cornwall Road, Suite 5 Oakville, ON, L6J 7W5 1-866-779-7712 info@perspective.ca perspective.ca www.studentperspective.ca Publisher & CEO: Steve Montague Vice-President: Ed Martin

Editorial: Meredith MacLeod, Phil Gaudreau & Mint Copy Inc. Student Perspective was produced independently of Ontario Colleges. Contents are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without written consent of Perspective Marketing Inc. The publisher is not liable for the views expressed in the articles and opinions do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher or Ontario Colleges.

The best education any employee can have is safety.

Smart Workplace is a national safety awareness educator.

Your provider and communications partner in providing complete safety education, awareness and prevention solutions. Helping you prevent costly workplace accidents and keep safety top of mind.

Published Monthly

ManagingSafely How good is your health and safety awareness?

Safety talks direct to your inbox!

Compliance strategies and solutions for supervisory personnel

From a supervision perspective, the basic elements of due diligence are:

Being a good supervisor goes well beyond making sure people do their jobs properly. One very important aspect of the position is health and safety.

Identification and correction of hazards.

n

While employers have the most authority in the workplace, and therefore have the greatest responsibility for health and safety, supervisors are next in line. Since their job involves taking direction from the employer and giving direction to the workers they supervise, it’s important for them to understand the health and safety responsibilities of everyone in the workplace, including their own.

Direct observation of workers.

n

Correcting unsafe or unwanted behaviour.

n

Direction and instruction of workers.

n

Response to worker questions and concerns.

n

Awareness of this responsibility and all it entails is not only a good idea, it’s a legal responsibility.

By definition, a supervisor is anyone who instructs, directs, and controls workers as they carry out their work tasks. You might be surprised to know that it applies to more than just those who hold the title “supervisor.” It can include owners, managers, superintendents, charge hands, lead hands, foremen, department heads, journeymen and trainers.

Supervisors often are given their positions because they are good at what they do, but this does not mean they know how to instruct workers and manage the day-to-

Documentation.

n

day activities of others, nor does it mean they will manage workplace safety and health issues effectively. Employers must make sure supervisors have the specific skills and knowledge they need to be effective, able to train other workers on safe work procedures for the tasks they supervise.

The skills required to be an effective supervisor are the same skills required for due diligence, which means taking all reasonable care to prevent the occurrence of an incident or event.

Extensive training might be required to fulfill your responsibilities under the principles of due diligence.

Legislation does not require employers to provide all the necessary training themselves. If desired, there are courses available from both public and private agencies.

When it comes to training others, what supervisors need to know varies with different jobs or industries. Also, different people learn differently, so a one-size-fitsall approach might not be effective.

Continued on page 2

n

n

n

Food safety in the workplace

n

Will it be earplugs, earmuffs or both?

Safety Meeting: Awareness is essential for safety

Don’t ignore presence of hazmats

Safety snippets

TOLL FREE: 1-888-655-4800 Mailing Address: 2010 Winston Park Drive, Suite 200 Oakville, Ontario L6H 5R7 www.smartworkplace.ca | info@smartworkplace.ca

Information strategies for improved management, compliance and safety, as well as monthly safety meeting guides. Reporting on critical safety issues, each with a safety meeting guide, questionnaire and safety tips.

ComfortZone

Talks Zone TZ4719

Fit test is a must for respirators Qualitative

Those who work regularly in areas where there’s a lack of oxygen or they could breathe in particulates, vapors or fibers are aware that wearing respirators is a key part of the job. They also know that making sure a respirator fits properly is the only way to know they are protected.

A method that uses your sense of taste or smell with your reaction to an irritant in order to detect leakage into the respirator facepiece. Whether the respirator passes or fails the test is based simply on you detecting leakage of the test substance into your facepiece.

But what if your job doesn’t usually involve wearing a respirator but you’re called upon to do so?

Qualitative fit testing is normally used for half-mask respirators (those that just cover your mouth and nose.)

First you’ll need to select the correct respirator to protect against the airborne contaminants that are likely to be encountered.

No respirator can protect against all of them. There are limitations for each type of respirator.

General precautionary information can be found in the manufacturer’s operating manual, but it might be necessary to seek help from an experienced safety professional or occupational hygienist familiar with the actual workplace environment and contaminants.

There are four qualitative test irritants: Supplied air respirators, which come in a variety of forms, such as selfcontained breathing apparatuses, air hoods, full body suits and airlines or work packs.

■

Bitrex, which leaves a bitter taste in your mouth (most commonly used).

■

Isoamyl acetate, which smells like bananas.

■

Saccharin, which leaves a sweet taste in your mouth.

Fit tests ensure that chosen respirator is comfortable and functions properly.

■

■

Disposable particulate respirators, which provide minimum protection and typically are used to protect against nuisance dusts.

Conducted by a trained, competent person, a fit test is required before a worker uses any respirator for the first time, then must also be conducted on at least an annual basis. Fit tests might need to be performed more frequently if there have been changes to a worker’s body such as a significant gain or loss in weight, or facial changes such as dentures or broken jaw bone.

Full-mask and half-mask air purifying respirators, which use cartridges and particulate filters. Air purifying respirators only work if you use the right cartridge and/or filter for the specific contaminant. Mechanical filters will block solid particles, while chemical filters soak up substances.

Maintaining a proper seal when wearing a respirator requires being clean-shaven before your shift begins, and possibly partway through, because beards, sideburns, mustaches and stubble prevent a good seal and are not permitted with respirator use. There are two types of fit testing, qualitative and quantitative:

These are the most common respirator types: ■

■

Inside this month

Published Monthly

Published Weekly Safety Meeting

Irritant smoke, which can cause coughing.

Quantitative Measures the actual amount of leakage into the facepiece and does not rely upon your sense of taste, smell, or irritation.

The respirators used during this type of testing will have a probe attached to the facepiece that will be connected to the measuring device by a hose.

Quantitative fit testing can be used for any type of tight-fitting respirator.

There should be no eating, smoking or drinking at least 20 minutes before the test.

The material contained in this document has been prepared from sources believed to be accurate and reliable. Application of this information to a specific worksite should be reviewed by a safety professional. Anyone making use of the information set forth herein does so at their own risk and assumes any and all liability arising therefrom. Specific medical advice should be obtained through consultation with a physician or other trained health care practitioner.

Interactive pdfs provide in-depth meeting information regarding important issues to industrial workplaces, a follow-up quiz and sign-in sheet for participants.

Also available as interactive power-points.

Staying safe & feeling well

Showing respect for your co-workers

The open-plan office concept revolutionized the way large companies designed their workspaces, opting to embrace a new, collaboration-oriented mind set to keep creativity flowing.

Published Monthly

wellness zone

on 1 out of every 6 smartphones, according to a 2011 study done by researchers at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine. According to the study, cell phones have become veritable reservoirs of pathogens as they touch faces, ears, lips and hands of different users of different health conditions. Other studies have found serious pathogens on smartphones such as Streptococcus, MRSA – which is a type of bacteria that is resistant to several antibiotics – and even E. coli.

Don’t be that person. Here are a few behaviours you may want to curb:

Sounds good, but regardless of the concept, the days of hiding away in an office all alone are as good as over. So that means you probably share closer quarters with some of your coworkers than you do with the people you live with.

Grooming at the desk If you find yourself needing to shave, clip a ragged nail, put on makeup or blow your nose, do it in the bathroom away from your colleagues. Keep that nail polish at home, not at your desk.

With this in mind, it might be time to review some of your habits. Do you chew with your mouth open? Do you sigh a lot while staring at your computer screen?

Do you subconsciously suck on your teeth while you are deep in thought? Do you take personal calls while a co-worker is having a quick business meeting?

Imposing smells Do you really need to eat the tuna right out of the can at your desk, and then toss half of it in your garbage can which won’t be emptied until the end of the day?

Perfume is also a frequent offender. Many people complain that too much fragrance can cause headaches and the inability to concentrate. Come to work fresh, but save the perfume for that big date.

Coming to work sick If you are sneezing and wheezing and have a fever, you are not doing your co-workers any favours by coming into work, leaving a trail of used tissues where ever you go. When you have symptoms, it’s best to stay home and suffer through the cold, rather than infecting your co-workers.

n

Learn about tinnitus

Spring clean in winter

n

Early prep for the holidays

n

Myths about staying warm

n

Recover from flu symptoms

n

Make a successful fire safety plan

n

How to eliminate stress

n

Recognizing learning disabilities

n

Flu shot facts

n

Drive through winter safely

n

Workspace Organization

n

Don’t drive distracted

n

Keep your car running smoothly

n

Common Injuries

Safety Meeting: Dealing with shorter days

We all know the importance of washing our hands especially after using the restroom or handling food in the kitchen, but what about other situations and places? Here are three examples of where bacteria may be lurking in places that you might not expect them:

Going to the gym? So are the germs According to an article published at businessinsider.com, fitness equipment review website Fitrated, gathered bacteria samples from 27 different pieces of equipment and then had them tested by EmLab P&K. The lab tested the samples to determine bacteria levels based on colony-forming units (CFU). The treadmill

and exercise bike came out worst overall in terms of the CFU count. On treadmills, the study found an average of 74 times more bacteria than a tap in a public toilet, while the average exercise bike harboured 39 times more bacteria than a cafeteria tray.

To avoid this bacteria, consider disinfecting machines both before and after use, avoid walking around barefoot or touching your face, always wash your hands, and always change out of your gym clothes straight after a workout.

Smartphones yes, clean phones no We have only one word for this: Ewwwwww! Fecal matter can be found

Two safe ways to clean your phone include using a microfiber cloth or isopropyl rubbing alcohol. Check with your phone manufacturer to confirm what is safe to use on your phone to keep it germ free.

Makeup bags Makeup bags and cases are the perfect breeding ground for a host of bacteria. A study conducted by London Metropolitan University discovered as many as six types of bacteria breeding on out-of-date cosmetics and beauty brushes.

On a regular basis, remove all products from your bag or case and give it a good cleaning. The best and quickest way to do this is with antibacterial wipes. Simply wipe the inside of the bag or case until any makeup residue is gone. Discard products that are expired.

Inside this edition

Inside this edition n

The right balance... feeling fine

Be aware of lurking bacteria

While this concept is now considered “the norm” for many new office spaces, it is not the most welcoming environment as originally thought. According to regus.ca, a recent study revealed that only 6.5% of employees felt they were productive in an open-plan office. An Ipsos study stated that employees lose an average of 86 minutes a day because of distractions.

So, changes are once again underway.

The new buzzword is ‘activity-based working’. This is all about giving people a wide variety of spaces to work in – understanding that there’s no one-sizefits-all model for office design.

n

n

President & CEO: Stefan Dreesen

Safety and security issues, legislation updates and the latest in health and safety news and strategies. Safety meeting discussion with every edition.

Useful information for at work and at home.

n

n

Healthy options at workplace events Beat the sniffles

Helping through a panic attack

n

Cancer prevention in our hands

Business texting etiquette

n

Don’t smoke? Don’t vape

Bored to tears at work?

n

n

Tips to hit the ground running

info@smartworkplace.ca www.smartworkplace.ca

Read all labels when grocery shopping

n

Contributing Writer: Bryden Winsby TOLL FREE: 1-888-655-4800

Stay healthy on vacation

n

n

Sales: Alan Haycroft | Liz Slobodin | Kevin Harvey Editor: Kate Van Hoof-Peeren

TM

Energy Zone: Celery juice - what’s the deal?

Employee health & wellness programs are valuable tools to increase overall satisfaction and prolong quality of life.

Wellness Zone is a great investment in the wellbeing of your employees.

Educate • Develop • Support • Engage • Motivate • Coach Ask about complimentary samples, power-points, video training and corporate branding opportunities.

Speak right away with one of our Health & Safety Communications Specialists.

Email: info@smartworkplace.ca Toll Free: 1-888-655-4800 www.smartworkplace.ca

PART-TIME LEARNING TO FIT YOUR LIFE

REGIST ER TODAY

In-Class | Online | Anytime

centennialcollege.ca/part-time

Expanding Expertise at his Convenience Part-Time Learning helps busy police officer gain new knowledge

W

hen Aly Virji was asked to lead the Toronto Police Service’s (TPS) Diversity and Inclusion Unit on an interim basis in 2017, he looked for a post-secondary program that would better equip him for the position.

Virji also wanted that program to be less than a year in length and give him the ability to complete classwork at his convenience.

He found just that with Centennial College’s PartTime Learning options, which are designed to accommodate students’ learning and schedule needs.

“It was really helpful that the program was part-time because I was working full-time during the day and teaching leadership and communication courses part-time,” says Virji, who completed Centennial’s Leadership and Inclusion program in April 2018 and today works as a detective sergeant in the TPS’s audit and quality assurance unit.

“Additionally, my son, Aydin, was only 5-years-old then. So, it was important for me to find a program that was manageable, given the other important commitments I had,” Virji says.

Because Centennial’s online courses were selfpaced and didn’t require Virji to log on to the learning system at any particular time, he was able to engage in class

discussions on his own schedule. In addition to Part-Time Learning’s flexibility, he says the program’s content was extremely relevant.

“I was able to use the ideas and concepts from the course by applying them to my own organization,” he says.

A lifelong learner whose mom instilled a love of learning in him that’s resulted in three degrees and several certificates,Virji says he’s taken a wide range of courses over the last 20 years — most of which were in the traditional faceto-face format.Yet, he says, his Centennial instructor was one of the most engaging, despite the online structure.

“My instructor did a great job of keeping us focused and encouraged us to ask thoughtful questions,” he says. “This deeper level of reflection and the application of the course concepts to our respective organizations really helped us to think about the issues from a variety of perspectives. It was this diversity of thought, and the diverse perspectives of other students, that created such an engaged online community.”

Advancing your career with a hectic schedule is possible. See all of the opportunities at centennialcollege.ca/ part-time

Perspe ctive

TM

Aly Virji Continuing education

5

Is Continuing Education Worth it? Quick Answer…Yes! Have you ever thought about all the change and uncertainty in the world today and wondered to yourself how you will get ahead in your career? In such challenging times, how can you remain current in your field, seize upon new opportunities, and stay ahead of the wave of technological disruption?

W

hat if we told you tens of thousands of Canadians just like you have been thinking about that same question, and they’ve come up with an answer? They decided to go back to school.

Rather than picturing teenagers with textbooks, when you think of modern postsecondary studies you should also be thinking about mid-career workers toting laptops and fresh from their office jobs downtown.You should also be picturing senior leaders looking to expand their professional network and take their careers to the next level, and late career workers exploring research questions that have stuck with them their entire working lives.

And you wouldn’t want to leave out the many mature students who continue their studies via the internet.

According to Statistics Canada, in the 2017/18 academic year students aged 25 and older made up a third of all students enrolled in postsecondary studies. About 12 per cent of all students were at least age 35. Both cohorts have been steadily growing in recent years.

As Alan Shephard, president of the University of Western Ontario, said in a 2017 op-ed, “Throughout careers, people are coming back to university to acquire the enhanced skills and new knowledge that will allow them to grow and adapt professionally.” He also noted

6

Continuing education

the importance of Canada’s postsecondary institutions in meeting society’s need for skilled, adaptable knowledge workers in a time when the world of work is changing rapidly.

This changing work climate doesn’t come as any surprise to those employed in sectors like transportation, retail, data entry, and manufacturing. These sectors have been just the latest victims of technological progress, forcing many workers to retrain and upgrade their skills. What some of those workers have discovered is that, rather than being an inconvenience, continuing education provides the perfect opportunity to retrain for the future and stay ahead of the curve.

A 2017 report from Dell Technologies suggests 85 per cent of the jobs that will exist in 2030 don’t exist today, and recent years have already seen many new job titles and sectors appear. Canada’s colleges and universities are leading the way in preparing for these jobs with programs that focus on emerging industries such as big data, automation, advanced manufacturing, and the environment.

For those with some working years left, enrolling in a postsecondary program allows them to upgrade their skillset, provide external and become an even greater asset to their current employer or find a new and better paying opportunity.

Business, engineering, and medicine degrees tend to offer the strongest return

on investment, according to a 2016 Statistics Canada report.

Some others are taking postsecondary programs as a passion project, seeking to contribute to society in a way they couldn’t during their career. They apply their existing knowledge alongside their new studies to conduct research or give back to their community.

And some enroll simply because they enjoy the challenge and the community that postsecondary studies offer.

Whatever your passion, and whatever your reason, continuing education offers you the best chance of continued career success and personal growth in a rapidly changing world.

Perspective

TM

Continuing Education Incentives Help Engage and Retain Employees

The Future of Business

and n i a r T Retain

I

nvesting in ongoing training and development for employees is more than just a good idea; it could be critical to a business’ ongoing success. The rate of technological and business practice change dictates that workers at all levels must have access to continuing education to remain relevant and be able to perform their work proficiently. Also, employees are more engaged when continuing education incentives are offered, to help them progress on their career path, rise within a company and achieve both more responsibility and higher earnings.

EMPLOYERS Across Ontario Benefit from Incentivising Staff Education According to Statistics Canada’s Survey of Innovation and Business Strategy, a quarter of firms said that lack of skills is a significant obstacle to innovation. The Canadian Council on Learning suggests, “As part of an excellence agenda for skills and higher education in Canada, employers need to take more responsibility for the training that, ultimately, produces great benefits for them. All stakeholders should take action to reduce the barriers faced by Canadians who would benefit from skills development opportunities.”

As a business owner, executive or manager, you probably understand this.

Are you acting on your knowledge? Does your company presently offer incentives to employees for continuing education?

With a significant percentage of workers

Perspe ctive

TM

approaching retirement age (that great population bulge we know as baby boomers) you may have difficulty sourcing experienced replacements, either from within the company or from outside.

Planning for succession means offering the necessary training, and why not look within your business for capable, ambitious people who are eager to step up?

Even if you aren’t expecting to fill a substantial number of positions due to retirement, you probably see the benefit of keeping your present workforce. Studies show that offering continuing education incentives will engage workers and improve employee retention.

If you haven’t already established a continuing education program within your business, it may be time to reach out to the post secondary institutions in Ontario that offer classes that align with your training requirements.You may be experiencing a surge of technological advancements in your industry that demand new training for workers in artificial intelligence or robotics. Perhaps you require education options for D or C-level executives to learn new tools and strategies so they can

excel in decision-making, organizational learning and change management.

EMPLOYEES Across Ontario Can Deliver Better Performance with Access to Ongoing Learning For workers at all levels, if you want to advance your career, making yourself more valuable to your company through continuing education is clearly a smart strategy. Ask your HR manager, or if you work for a smaller company, your supervisor, manager or boss, if they offer any incentives for continuing education. Even if they do not have an established program, you may be able to persuade them if you can demonstrate how the course you wish to attend will improve your performance. They are likely to be amenable to supporting your further education, especially since studies have proven that higher education leads to increased productivity.

Many companies offer tuition reimbursement, usually to employees

that have been with the company for at least a year.You may need to inquire about your company’s continuing education program to learn the details such as: • Must the classes be job related?

• How many classes will the company reimburse tuition for each term?

• Do you need to achieve a specific grade to qualify for reimbursement?

• What percentage of tuition fees are eligible for reimbursement?

• Will you receive paid time off to attend classes?

• What are the limits of classes or semesters in which you may participate?

• Will these benefits or bursaries be offered to you for a postgraduate education?

In short, regardless of your present level of education and position in your company, continuing education is not simply a ‘nice’ option. In today’s rapidly evolving, knowledge driven culture, lifelong learning is a necessity. It’s time to get back to class!

Continuing education

7

Transformational Learning

By Nicole Laidler

M

elanie-Anne Atkins calls her time at Western Continuing Studies “one of the most transformative experiences I’ve had in all my years of schooling.” That’s high praise from Atkins, who holds a Ph.D., Educational Psychology and who works as the Doctor of Education Manager at Western University.

Last summer, Atkins returned to the classroom to complete an accelerated certificate in Leading Through Conflict at Western Continuing Studies. “The idea of leading through conflict rather than trying to avoid it intrigued me,” she says. “It made a lot of sense, and I wanted to learn how to do it.”

Atkins had read widely about negotiation and mediation, but found the focus on winners and losers at odds with her background in equity and social justice.

“I believe when two people come together, we can both get what we want,” she notes. “But I didn’t have the language for that mindset - until I took this program.”

The three-course accelerated certificate left Atkins with new leadership skills that have had a positive impact on both her professional and personal interactions.

Here are her top three takeaways:

Perspe ctive

TM

It’s OK to bring emotions into the workplace.

As part of the program, Atkins learned the ORID (Objectives, Reflective, Interpretive, and Decisional) Method of structuring a difficult conversation. She says it has changed the way she approaches managing her team.

“When there is a problem to solve, managers traditionally ask people to bring their ideas to the table. We skip right to the decision point - ignoring the first three steps that need to happen,” explains Atkins.

With ORID, participants first uncover their mutual interests and are then given space to express their emotional reactions.

“When you allow people to talk about their reactions to whatever is happening, you are much more likely to be able to proceed in a logical manner,” Atkins says.

It’s essential to treat everyone with dignity.

With her passion for equity and social justice, the program’s emphasis on respecting the essential human dignity of every person resonated with Atkins.

“Our instructor continually challenged us to think about how we were upholding those elements of dignity, even when conversations become heated,” she says.

State your opinion with confidence.

Women are often socialized to state their opinion in the form of a question, notes Atkins, who say it’s a trait she recognized in herself as a leader.

“Now when I find myself doing this, I catch it immediately. I’ll rephrase it and say: this is what I think we should do.”

An approach to learning that works for a busy schedule.

Atkins says Western Continuing Studies’ accelerated

certificate made it easy to fit learning into her busy work schedule. “I could plan well in advance, block off time from work, and fully devote myself to the program,” she says.

“Western Continuing Studies gives you the opportunity to check your professional knowledge against current trends, or to brainstorm new approaches to issues that may seem intractable,” she continues. “It’s wonderful to have expertise in a specialized field, but continuous learning helps you grow.”

Continuing education

9

Study Online Your Way Whether you’re looking for professional development or personal growth, our 80+ online programs let you learn anytime, anywhere. algonquincollege.com/online

Changing Education

Edward – Grad

Online Continuing Learning at Algonquin College Algonquin College’s AC Online is a new full-scale digital campus that will answer demand in the modern workplace and serve the needs of a range of learners.

“A

nyone who wants to stand out in the market or their industry, or simply wants to explore an interest or possible new direction, can find something at AC Online. And they can do so while juggling their existing work, family or personal responsibilities,” said Sara Munroe, Acting Dean of AC Online.

The digital campus offers more than 20 full-time and 60 part-time programs in business, community studies, trades, media, and information technology. Students can choose individual courses, certificates, full college diplomas and post-graduate certificates.

“One of the College’s key initiatives is its multi-year Learner-driven Plan, which focuses on providing an educational experience that is as tailored and customized and individualized as possible,” says Munroe.

That is in direct response to a shifting workplace, in which employees are expected to regularly upgrade their technological and technical skills.

Algonquin is offering the flexibility to answer that need, she says.

The College has established one of the largest online course inventories nationally, says Munroe, and at any one time, has more than 4,000 full-time online students, backed by a strong team of support staff, administrators and faculty.

“We have offered many courses and programs online through our Centre for Continuing and Online Learning for many years, but AC Online takes a more formalized approach to offering a campus experience for online learners.”

Those enrolled in AC Online will get the same direction and guidance in their learning journeys as full-time on-campus students, including access to pathway

Perspe ctive

TM

advisors who help with course selection, academic pathways, student success support, and financial aid.

Courses are facilitated by people with experience in the field and the same rigour and quality assurance goes into developing online programs as traditional ones, says Munroe.

“As an established leader in online learning, we have moved to next level support for those accessing continuing education.”

Online education benefits all kinds of learners, and is particularly sought after by mid-career professionals looking to upgrade their skills but who have work and family obligations that make it difficult to commit to classroom schedules.

“I think many people would say continuing education is something they

would like to do, and they see the benefit of it, but they can’t commute to our physical campus. Online is the answer.”

It is also the answer for many who are embarking on a second career or reentering the workplace or looking to shift a side job into a full-time career.

And online learning is a surprisingly social experience, says Munroe.

“There are many means of engagement and students are encouraged to expand and deepen their thinking, work as teams, and develop a community of supportive learning.”

Continuing education

11

Study part-time between bedtime stories and TVÂ time.

UPSKILL, ON YOUR TIME. fanshawec.ca/pt

Enhance your career with Part-time Studies Whether you’re looking to earn a credential, are seeking professional skills development or just want to explore a new passion or interest, Fanshawe College offers flexible part-time programs and courses to suit your lifestyle and academic goals.

What is Part-time Studies?

P

art-time learning means studying with a smaller course-load per college term, typically one to three courses per semester. If you have a busy lifestyle but still want to work toward academic goals, studying part-time is an excellent way to achieve them! Parttime Studies options include: part-time post-secondary, continuing education, and online learning. Fanshawe is also part of OntarioLearn, which provides connections to the courses you want and need, no matter where you live or where it’s offered in Ontario.

Find a convenient and flexible delivery method that fits your life!

Programs and courses come in a multitude of delivery formats - full-time, part-time, online, blended, continuous intake and modular formats.

“Part-time Studies at Fanshawe gives you the flexibility and choice to acquire short-term credentials to enhance your job skills, which ladder seamlessly to longer-term credentials such as diplomas, graduate certificates and degrees, which can move your career forward,” says Mary Pierce, Dean of the Faculty of Business, Information Technology and Part-time Studies.

Perspe ctive

Student support to help you be successful The decision to go back to school can be overwhelming but don’t let this prevent you from pursuing your education goals. Fanshawe can help and provide the information you need to make an informed decision. Our student support includes: • Academic upgrading • Accessibility services and accommodations • Online learning support • Career mentorship programs • Resume and interview workshops • Financial readiness supports • Transfer your previous learning to Fanshawe

Education that leads to jobs Going back to school is a short-term investment for long-term gain. Fanshawe offers career-focused programs that are developed based on labour market demand and with the help of our employer partners. Our success shows: 90.3 per cent of Fanshawe graduates get jobs after graduation - the highest among Ontario colleges!

Our students share the benefits of Part-time Studies “Flexibility was exactly what I was seeking when it came to my education as a

mature student. Being able to take courses online has really helped me achieve my goals.” - Brittany “Part-time Studies allowed me to continue to gain new skills to advance my career while also being a full-time working mom. I wouldn’t have been able to do this without flexible course delivery options.” – Michelle “Studying online is extremely flexible.

Whether you are working, staying at home or travelling, it is doable from anywhere. I love the convenience of studying anytime, anywhere and the flexibility of learning at my own pace.” – Lori-Ann “To upgrade my skills and prepare for a new career, I took part-time courses at Fanshawe in the evenings while also working a full-time job. It was sometimes challenging to find time for my assignments, and I definitely used a few breaks and lunches to cram for exams, but the professors were exceptional and I always felt accommodated and supported.

I ended up completing the requirements for two programs in the same year, and I was proud to attend my graduation that fall!” – Dayan “When my daughter started school, I made the decision to upgrade my office skills. Online learning was the perfect fit for me and provided the flexibility to work at my own pace while maintaining a full-time job and family responsibilities.” – Darci For more information, please visit: fanshawec.ca/part-time Interested in studying online?

Take our online learning readiness indicator: amiready.ca

“Fanshawe has a broad suite of online offerings that allow you to study at your convenience while receiving the technical and educational support you need,” Pierce says. “Fanshawe offers remote online testing options and online readiness modules to enhance your learning skills. Through Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR), you can apply to transfer relevant previous experience and knowledge to gain advanced credit.”

TM

Continuing education

13

Your future. Your terms.

Explore options to transform your career.

Samantha, Graduate

At Seneca, you don’t have to put your life on hold to advance your career. Our flexible, fulland part-time programming allows you to study on your own schedule. Explore graduate and professional studies, diploma to degree pathways, part-time studies and more.

Visit our Open House on April 4.

SENECA20000016-03_MatureStudents_GlobeAndMail_FP

Seneca provides programming to fit your busy schedule

A

t Seneca, we understand that people in and around the Greater Toronto Area lead busy lives. Kids, a partner, a job or multiple jobs, friends, activities – and those are just some of the things on a long list that demand attention and take up precious hours out of your day. Finding extra time to dedicate to upgrading your skills or changing careers by going back to school can be a very real challenge. We get it. And we want to make it as easy as possible for you to gain the knowledge and skills you need to get where you want to be. The programming provided at Seneca can be tailored to meet your specific needs, so you, too, can say: Challenge Accepted.

With campuses in the Greater Toronto Area and Peterborough and education partners around the world, Seneca’s Faculty of Continuing Education & Training offers honours bachelor degrees, diplomas, certificates, graduate certificates and corporate training in a broad range of programs. Classes can be taken at several locations and online, or through a flexible hybrid option, and they are available early mornings, evenings and on weekends.

The bachelor degree programs available in a flexible, part-time format include Interdisciplinary Studies, International Accounting and Finance, and Child Development.

Seneca also recently introduced a graduate certificate in Cybersecurity and Threat Management to respond to the growing demand for trained professionals in the field. The curriculum for the program was developed in collaboration with Toronto Finance International, which represents the interests of Toronto’s financial sector. Cannabis is another growing industry in Canada and to meet the need for qualified and skilled workers, Seneca offers a certificate in Cannabis Industry Studies. A partnership with Aleafia Health’s FoliEdge Academy to develop accredited cannabis courses and certifications in various formats, including online self-study courses, provides more options for students.

Perspe ctive

TM

Seneca Downtown, a new location for professional and graduate education in Toronto’s financial district, was developed with the aim of providing greater flexibility and accessibility for busy working professionals.

The downtown space at Bay and Wellington streets provides programming as part of the new Centre for Graduate & Professional Studies, bringing together more than 40 careerfocused graduate certificate programs at Seneca. This includes industryrecognized certification courses and credits for licences and designations, as well as customized options for professional development.

“Seneca has a wide range of program choices for postsecondary graduates and also working professionals. The Centre for Graduate & Professional Studies brings it all together under one umbrella, so you can easily identify what best suits your needs,” said Kiley Bolton, Director of the Centre for Graduate & Professional Studies.

“It reinforces Seneca’s leadership position in graduate programming. Plus, Seneca Downtown adds a new dimension to what we can offer students from the perspective of flexibility and access.”

Seneca’s credentials are renowned for their quality and respected by employers.

Through 1,000s of industry partnerships for networking and job opportunities, and more than 100 workplace experiential learning opportunities, applied research and entrepreneurial projects, our graduates are highly skilled and ready to hit the ground running. Seneca is ranked first among Ontario colleges for degree and credit transfer pathways, providing more than 1,000 unique program-to-program transfers with more than 60 partner institutions in Canada and abroad.

For more information about Seneca and all the programming options available through Continuing Education, please visit: senecacollege.ca/ce.

A class in session at the Seneca Downtown location at Bay & Wellington

A look inside the Cybersecurity lab at Newnham Campus Continuing education

15

Professional. Practical. Personal.

You’ve been thinking about it for a while.

Now’s the time!

Earn a credential in a part-time online environment.

• • • • •

Specialize your skills Change careers Enhance your education Develop a personal interest Stay on top of emerging trends

Discover education that's right for you. ce.mohawkcollege.ca

Achieving Educational and Professional Goals at Mohawk College Online learners at Mohawk College are advancing their careers, acquiring specialized skills, embarking on new career paths, and staying on top of emerging trends.

W

hatever the goal, Mohawk offers online learners something that’s right for them in individual courses or programs that can lead to a certificate, diploma or graduate certificate.

Online learning allows students to schedule learning on their own time, the flexibility that busy people need, and the opportunity to advance current knowledge to be competitive in the job market while still working.

“Students and learning are at the heart of all we do at Mohawk,” said Cebert Adamson, Dean, Continuing Education, Academic Quality, Library and Centre for Teaching & Learning.

“As a College, we’re committed to providing a high-quality education that includes flexible learning options for students and programs that are designed to meet the current and future needs of our industry and community partners.”

There are more than 700 courses and 56 programs leading to credentials that are offered through online learning at Mohawk.

Among particularly popular offerings are the Library and Information Technician diploma, which is garnering considerable interest from across Canada, along with nursing specialities such as Perioperative Nursing, which is in strong demand from local hospitals looking for staff training.

Perspe ctive

TM

Mohawk’s industry-leading faculty are specialists in their fields, and bring current content and real-world insight to their teaching.

“The instructors are very knowledgeable, the course assignments are relevant and practical, the readings build on the lecture material, and the discussions not only encourage you to think about processes and procedures from different perspectives, but also provide a great opportunity to share and connect with colleagues across Canada and around the world,” said Nicole Balliet, a research project officer who completed a Research Administration Certificate through online learning at Mohawk.

Alyssa Lai, a marketing and communications consultant, has been teaching Continuing Education courses at Mohawk for more than three years.

“One of the great things about Continuing Education is that students are benefiting from instructors who are actively working in the industry and who are subject matter experts,” said Lai. “They can connect this learning to the real world.”

She teaches fully online and blended delivery courses and says students have many touch points with instructors, including video conference calls and virtual office hours.

“Online doesn’t mean that an instructor or peers aren’t responsive, it just means more flexibility in terms of time and travelling to campus,” she added.

Mohawk College is known for its deep partnerships with industry and that approach is embedded in online learning through Continuing Education.

A great example is the Research Administration Certificate offered in conjunction with the Canadian Association of Research Administrators (CARA).

CARA members provide faculty expertise, content development, and financial aid opportunities.

Family and corporate consultant, child life specialist, mental health professional and author, Michelle McVittie was inspired by a creative writing course to start her blog, “Mom the Manager” and self-publish a book I Quit! Oh wait, I’m the Mom, that has now leveraged her career as a speaker The program launched in September 2017 and is the first of its kind in Canada.

The online program is designed for those working in the field. Learners can take individual courses of interest or complete all six to earn a certificate.

Another example is Condominium Management, offered in partnership with the Association of Condominium Managers of Ontario (ACMO), to help

take the steps needed to comply with their education requirements.

Whether the interest is professional or personal, through any of the 56 Continuing Education program areas offered online by Mohawk College, students are able to pursue their educational goals through flexible, convenient, professional program delivery.

Mohawk College’s flexible online learning lets you take courses to fit YOUR schedule.

Continuing education

17

6 Reasons Why Continuing Education Can Transform Your Career

A

re you working in a competitive industry, with ambitious, techsavvy new graduates eyeing your corner office? Keeping abreast of new developments in your field is imperative.

The rate of change in almost every industry is astounding, and you simply must understand how new technologies such as robotics, artificial intelligence and blockchain are and will impact your business.

How do successful professionals in Ontario achieve their career goals and then remain relevant over time? They understand how beneficial continuing education can be, not only to advance their skills and gain qualifications, but to improve their lives across a range of personal and career aspects.

Here are 6 excellent reasons why you should leverage continuing education in your own professional life.

1. Expand your network – Over the course of your career, you have already developed a network of associates,

18

Continuing education

coworkers and employers. The new contacts you will make through continuing your education can expand this network exponentially. Perhaps you will connect with industry professionals who can mentor you on your career path, or those who can help you land a new position with the credentials you acquire while studying.

2. Improve time management – Juggling your current work and personal life with attending classes will undoubtedly be challenging, but your reward is an improved capacity to focus on what’s important. Developing this discipline will benefit your career, home life and can even help improve your health.

3. Remain competitive – It’s easy to feel contented and rest on your laurels if you have already achieved many of your career goals. Rapid changes in technology and aspiring rivals could leave you behind if you don’t work at keeping up with the evolution of your industry.

4. Earn more money – You make yourself more valuable as you gain knowledge, new skills and experience.

Continuing your education offers a bona fide reason for you to ask for – and get – a higher salary. Studies consistently show that more education brings higher earnings in Ontario and across the country.

5. Gain qualifications - Allowing you to continue to climb that ladder or transition to a new, more promising or personally fulfilling career. Some jobs require re-certification, others demand that you achieve a certain level of education to progress. Maybe you are considering a career change but lack experience or the necessary qualifications to land a job in the field that interests you. Test yourself by taking classes to gain an understanding (or required certifications) in your potential new vocation. Doing so while still working keeps you safely grounded while you scope out new possibilities.

6. Role modeling – Part of being a leader in your profession and rising to the top of your chosen career path is modeling the behavior you want your associates and personnel to emulate.You will be a better leader if you develop specific skills such as supervisory methods and best practices, workplace conflict resolution and verbal / written business communication.Your organization will certainly benefit from a culture of consistent and continual education for all.

Ensure your progression along your chosen career path or investigate an exciting new occupation. Keep up with advances in technology so that you can compete with digital natives. Learn how to be a better leader and people manager.

These are only a few of the benefits you can enjoy through continuing education.

There are post-secondary institutions across Ontario offering diverse options, so explore yours, and make learning a lifetime commitment.

Perspective

TM

Join the skills revolution The job market is changing, and it’s changing fast.

It’s no longer enough to just be “good at

Emerging Technology

Operations

requires a unique blend of technical and

IT Audit Execution

Human Resources

human skills—and you don’t get that from

Cyber Security

Business

taking one course or bootcamp.

Cloud Computing Strategy

Accounting

Our innovative certificate programs are

Full-Stack Web Development

Risk Management

your job”. Getting hired and promoted now

well suited for working professionals with busy schedules, so you can build the skills you need faster, and get hired faster.

School of Continuing Studies yorku.ca/continue

Machine Learning

Digital & Content Marketing

Data Analytics

Public Relations

User Experience (UX) Design

opportunity

learn

Georgian

academic

learning academic

Mohawk

search

Sheridan

online growing

goals

upgrade

flexibility

collaboration partners

learning online

Humber shared

Learn

Confederation GeorgeBrown

Colleges

Sault

skills career

Boréal La Cité

goals

Loyalist

Ontario Learn Working

flexible education

Durham

Learn

academic

course portal

upgrade

journey

journey

Cambrian

career

OntarioLearn’s inventory includes close to 1,600 courses and over 600 College credentials, developed and delivered collaboratively by the Ontario Colleges.

Enroll at one of the 24 Ontario Colleges today.

flexible course partnerships

quality

career

Enroll Today

education

Ontario

For the past 25 Years, over 1 million course enrollments have been creating and enhancing careers to those looking for a quality college education anytime and anywhere with flexible start dates.

learning

Lambton facilitators Fanshawe network skills

Ontario Learn students

Enhance Your Career

Ontario

Learn

Fleming Conestoga

It’s the most impressive collection of shared online college courses in North America, right at your fingertips. All 24 of Ontario’s publicly-funded colleges are working together in OntarioLearn to offer you easy access to a wide variety of high-quality courses, programs and services online.

St.Clair portal

courses

support

longevity efficient

Ontario

Centennial

enrollment

efficiency

OntarioLearn

online connection

What is OntarioLearn?

digital innovative collaborative

online courses

25 YEARS

Algonquin

college

variety

shared upgrade

Northern skills

Together

Canadore goals

portal

Seneca

Ontario

St.Lawrence

online learning

Niagara

learn

Ontario online

ontariolearn.com