Innovating Forestry Education: Advancing Accessibility, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

TitleInnovating Forestry Education: Advancing Accessibility, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
Faculty/College/UnitForestry
StatusActive
Duration2 Year
Initiation04/01/2024
Project Summary

In response to the imperative for inclusive and accessible learning environments in Forestry education, we propose a transformative initiative targeting four courses within the Faculty of Forestry. Building upon the experience from the 2023/2024 TLEF UDL Fellows Program and the Ally (content accessibility tool) pilot led by LT Hub, we aim to transform FRST 239, WOOD 225, FRST 303 and FOPR 464. Our project will undertake a comprehensive redesign of course materials, learning activities (including field work), and assessments guided by Universal Design for Learning principles to ensure an engaging and inclusive learning experience for all students. We will also create support tools to enable faculty to craft adaptable content and to aid students in harnessing new educational technologies. This initiative is designed to enhance Forestry education and align with UBC's and the Forestry’s strategic commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusive educational excellence.

Funding Details
Year 1: Project YearYear 1
Year 1: Funding Year2024/2025
Year 1: Project TypeSmall TLEF
Year 1: Principal InvestigatorMichelle Zeng
Year 1: Funded Amount37,135
Year 1: Team Members

Michelle Zeng, Sr. Manager, Educational Strategies, Faculty of Forestry
Frederick (Yangqian) Qi, Teaching and Educational Technology Specialist, Faculty of Forestry
Lee Salmon, Lecturer, Forest Resources Management, Faculty of Forestry
Neil Leveridge, Assistant Professor of Teaching, Wood Science, Faculty of Forestry
Christopher Chanway, Professor, Forest and Conservation Sciences, Faculty of Forestry