Course Development for the Indigenous STEM Bridging Program

The project will create a two-semester, 12-credit, course tentatively called the “Integrated Experiential STEM Seminar.” This course is part of a broader initiative led by Applied Science, Science, Land and Food Systems, Forestry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, to develop a year-long bridging program to help Indigenous students transition into STEM direct-entry undergraduate degrees at UBC, providing them with academic, social, financial, and cultural supports throughout.

This course will offer students a supportive space to build community, learn about different STEM disciplines, develop essential academic skills, and engage in laboratory science and experiential learning. Activities will include group projects, lab work, coding exercises, and training in study strategies. A key focus in developing the course will be to highlight Indigenous knowledge and approaches to science, and strengthen student’s cultural and community ties. Content will be developed in close consultation with Indigenous students and the bridging program’s Indigenous Advisory Committee.

Tonia Welch, Assistant Professor of Teaching, Mining Engineering, Faculty of Applied Science
Agnes d’Entremont, Professor of Teaching / Associate Dean pro tem, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Applied Science
Jaclyn Stewart, Professor of Teaching, Chemistry / Associate Dean, Academic, Faculty of Science
Meghan Allen, Associate Professor of Teaching / Associate Heah, Undergraduate Affairs, Computer Science, Faculty of Science
Suzie Lavallee, Professor of Teaching, Forest and Conservation Sciences / Academic Director, Vantage College
Ashley Welsh, Faculty Liaison, Faculty of Science, Centre for Teaching, Learning and Technology / Science Centre for Learning and Teaching (Skylight)
Dana-Lyn Mackenzie, Sr. Manager, EDI and Indigeneity, Faculty of Applied Science / Faculty of Land and Food Systems / Faculty of Forestry