Lakehead U Offers Unique Opportunity to Non-traditional students

(Thunder Bay - August 29, 2005) Lakehead University's Faculty of Education has developed a unique opportunity for non-traditional students in Thunder Bay.

A new program called Humanities 101: A Lakehead University Community Initiative is being offered as a non-credit Lakehead U course to people who may not otherwise have the chance to attend post-secondary education. The first of it's kind in Ontario, this multidisciplinary course involves faculty members from around the university, and will cover issues related to Social Work, Aboriginal Studies, Political Science, Women's Studies, Anthropology, English, Music, and Philosophy.

"The course is similar to an introductory first-year university course, and includes the opportunity for students to discuss course topics during class time with the goal of generating an interactive learning experience for all participants," says Dr. Christina van Barneveld, an Assistant Professor with the Faculty of Education who is spearheading this initiative at Lakehead U. "It is designed to introduce students to the excitement and interest that accompanies the discovery and creation of knowledge. The program aims to acquaint students with the benefits that may come from higher education experiences, and provide assistance to overcoming barriers to higher-level education experiences."

Dr. van Barneveld adds that in order to reduce some of the barriers to attending class, students will be supported with a transportation allowance, childcare allowance, school supplies, and a small meal before class.

A Community Approach
A network of 15 governmental and non-governmental organizations were brought together to collaborate with Lakehead U in developing and implementing Humanities 101.

"This community-driven approach to program development helps create new relationships between Lakehead U, its Faculties, and the community, and builds a network that continues to grow," says Dr. van Barneveld. "This network has ongoing involvement through the in-kind support of the students of Humanities 101, as part of a 'circle of support' around each student or in program advisory roles," says Dr. van Barneveld.

Students participating in this initiative are identified through the network of community service agencies. The community service providers recommend individuals who they feel are ready to take a step towards this educational opportunity. Individuals are 17 years or older, able to read a newspaper, and enjoy discussing social and cultural issues in a friendly and supportive academic context.

"Our University is enriched by the presence of these new students," says Dr. Julia O'Sullivan, Lakehead U's Dean of Education. "Lakehead, like the other great universities, reflects, respects, and responds to the community in which it exists."

Members of the Media are welcome to interview Dr. van Barneveld by calling Marla Tomlinson at 343-8177.

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Contact: Marla Tomlinson, Communications Officer, Lakehead University, 343-8177 or 472-9113