A group of university girls are indoors in a science lab. One woman is looking into a microscope while the others write reports.

Self-directed courses and group projects

SLICCs (Student-Led Individually Created Courses), also referred to as Self-Directed Courses, are experiential learning courses in which students design and complete supervised, self-directed projects. These courses emphasize structured reflection, competency development, and the integration of academic knowledge with real-world experience.
Students are responsible for driving their own learning, while academic supervisors and programs ensure academic rigor, alignment, and appropriate evaluation.

Before you begin

Important:
  • Your SLICC cannot duplicate a course, thesis, or practicum.
Best practices
  • Start early
  • Stay organized
  • Keep detailed notes and evidence
  • Seek feedback regularly

1. How to Apply

Step 1: Prepare
  • Identify your experience
  • Secure a course coordinator/supervisor for the SLICC
  • Prepare your SLICC proposal
    • Determine the learning outcomes/ uoComptencies you would like to
Step 2: Application Submission

Graduate students: submit by service request (Category: Enrolment, Type: Directed Studies)

Undergraduate students: submit by email to [email protected]

  • Complete SLICC Application Form
  • Include learning outcomes
  • Provide timeline and project description

Deadline submission Fall 2026: August 15th, 2026

Step 3: Approval
  • Your application must be approved by the identified SLICC coordinator
  • Your application and SLICC must also be approved by your supervisor (if applicable in your program)
  • Revisions may be needed by the coordinator or supervisor before the approval

2. How You Will Be Evaluated

Different methods can be used to evaluate students. These can be the following: 

  • Report (present data obtained) 
  • Presentation (present your finding and data) 
  • Discussion (discuss your findings and data with your coordinator)

NOTE: Your SLICC coordinator will determine how the evaluation process will take place.

You are assessed on:

  • What you learned
  • How you reflect on your experience
  • How you connect theory and practice
  • You are graded on learning, not success of the project

3. Key Expectations

  • Be proactive and self-directed
  • Maintain regular communication with your course coordinator or supervisor
  • Document your learning throughout
  • Engage with feedback 

4. What Makes a Strong SLICC

  • Clear and realistic learning outcomes
  • Strong alignment between experience and academic goals
  • Regular, evidence-based reflection
  • Demonstrated growth over time

5. Quick Student Checklist

  • SLICC course coordinator identified
  • SLICC form filled out
  • Supervisor confirmation received (email confirmation attached to SR)
  • Application submitted by SR and approved
  • Mid-point report completed
  • Final report submitted