Faculty Learning Community Spotlight: Environmental Sustainability and Justice Frameworks across the Disciplines

Like last year, we want to introduce the work of our current Faculty Learning Communities (FLCs) with some brief spotlight interviews. Brian Mader (Biology) and Jennifer de Vera (Office of Sustainability) are the co-facilitators of “Environmental Sustainability and Justice Frameworks across the Disciplines.”

We are also currently accepting proposals for Facilitators for 2027-28! Learn more about this year’s line-up and about how to apply on the Faculty Learning Community web page or reach out to FLC@dawsoncollege.qc.ca.  The deadline to apply is November 13.

What kinds of questions are you hoping to explore together in this FLC, and what can teachers gain from having the time to explore them with colleagues?

Brian Mader: How can we incorporate the topics of environment and environmental justice into our courses? Having teachers come together from different disciplines and perspectives allows for the sharing of ideas and incorporation of new activities in our courses.

What does a typical meeting look like? What kinds of conversations or activities might someone joining the FLC take part in?

BM: Meetings have been a combination of group discussions and interactive activities. We have gone outside to do a short BioBlitz, harvest vegetables, and had story telling sessions with discussions about the importance of varying perspectives.

Has anything from your conversations so far surprised you, challenged an assumption, or given you a new way of thinking about your teaching?

BM: I very much enjoy working with faculty outside of Biology. I tend to form habits in my teaching, relying on “tried and true” mechanisms. Learning from other faculty helps me re-evaluate how I am sharing and transmitting information to students. I can reassure myself as well as try new activities. Furthermore, getting together on a regular basis allows for bonds to be built and collaboration to follow. I have already visited Cory’s class [one of our participants from Humanities] and look forward to further collaborations.

-By Felix Fuchs