The professor says that course content comes alive once students see it has transferability into their future career—class discussions are more lively, students are more engaged. “I still remember most clearly the practical experiences in my own undergrad, more so than the classes themselves.”
Dr. Tugault-Lafleur admits that students’ levels of experience are far from homogenous when they are matched to placements, and the dynamics of working with a group can be challenging. To other professors on the fence about integrating CSL, she says, “Don’t be afraid of exposing your students to the unknown; difficult situations are great learning opportunities for them.” She also emphasizes that professors are not alone in this endeavour. Claire has felt supported throughout the CSL integration process every year with the help of the Community Engagement Team. “This program is made possible in my course with the help of my Specialist, Julie Marois.”
“It’s so easy now with ChatGPT to learn passively by copying and pasting information. As professors, we must find new ways to keep students engaged in their studies. That’s why CSL is perfect.”
Claire Tugault-Lafleur
The benefit extends past students. Students in CSL placements are asked to provide tangible deliverables to their community partners. This means that while students are gaining valuable work experience in their field, community partners are the recipients of the work these students put into their organization. Claire says, “Our partners continue with us because it is a positive experience for all involved.” This year, 9 different groups of students took part in 9 different community organizations during the Fall 2023 semester, wherein they became integrated in volunteering for their respective non-profit. In Winter 2024 the same groups of students returned to the placement to develop an intervention according to the needs identified in the fall, like creating a cookbook and an informational pamphlet and presenting it to members of L’Association des neurotraumatisés de l'Outaouais.
Dr. Tugault-Lafleur recommends the program to other profs both in and out of the Health Sciences field. For professors wishing to implement CSL into their own courses, she advises establishing their own connection to the community partners in addition to the Community Engagement team member.