Resolving Conflict

Resolving Conflict

By Learning Commons Web Team on January 10, 2023 |Tagged with:

Working in groups, from time to time, involves some conflict. Conflict occurs where people have a clash of values, expectations, opinions, interpretations, needs, or wants. Learning to manage conflict effectively is an important skill, and an essential component of your learning when working in groups.

Conflict is:

  • Natural.
  • Uncomfortable for most of us.
  • A barrier to conversation/dialogue.
  • Sometimes necessary, even desirable to achieve a truly collaborative outcome.
  • Important to address and not avoid.

What are your ground rules for handling conflict?

It makes sense to consider this question early on in your group process and to come up with a few that will work for all of you. Here are some that you may find helpful.

  • Stay flexible.
  • Keep the interests of the group as the focus.
  • Only one person speaks at a time.
  • Listen to each other with respect and patience.
  • Focus on the problem and avoid personal attacks.
  • Participate in identifying options for moving forward (you may not be able to resolve the conflict).
  • Consider an objective approach for deciding outcomes when you are at a stalemate (this may be as simple as the group leader or another designate as having the final word or as complex as establishing a criteria for decision making).
  • Honor confidentiality.

What can you do to manage conflict more effectively?

The University of Wisconsin-Madison has an entire site dedicated to conflict resolution. Here are 8 steps to conflict resolution from their resources.

1. Take care of yourself and understand your triggers.
We all react differently to different circumstances. If you’re dealing with conflict, make sure you’re well-rested and eating well, so you can be at your best.

2. Clarify personal needs threatened by the dispute.
Identify the desired outcomes and work towards those.

3. Identify a safe place for negotiation.
Consider the role of your instructor or TA here.

4. Take a listening stance in the interaction.

5. Assert your needs clearly and specifically.
Focus on the needs and goals of your group here.

6. Approach problem solving with flexibility.

7. Manage impasse with calm, patience and respect.

8. Build an agreement that works.

Resources related to conflict management:

UBC’s Faculty of Grad Studies has published some excellent resources related to something called Interest Based, Relational Approach to Conflict. It may sound fancy, but it’s a practical approach for maintaining relationships and respect for differences in a conflict.

Need to Develop Your Skills ?

There are a few skills or qualities you’ll need to develop, in order to manage conflict effectively. Here are a few examples from UBC’s Faculty of Grad Studies Conflict Resolution Guide:

  • Active and reflective listening skills (restating, paraphrasing, summarizing).
  • Empathy: focus on the person and make an observation (“it seems to me”), define the feeling (“you seem frustrated”), or frame the situation.
  • Curiosity: ask open ended questions whenever possible; who, what, when, where, why, and how.
  • Use behaviors that elicit cooperation rather than resistance (developed by the University of Colorado).

Resources related to communicating in conflict:

Common Group Problems and Communication Tips (from the Derek Bok Center: Harvard University)
UBC’s Faculty of Grad Studies Conflict Resolution Guide
Group Projects:A Conflict Resolution Guide for Students

 Resources available at UBC

There are advocacy and policy resources that you may want to seek out if conflict becomes unmanageable or uncomfortable. Your instructor or TA is your first stop, but here are some others that may be helpful:

Workshops:Student Services: Leadership & Involvement

Student resources:AMS Advocacy Office

Policy:UBC’s Equity Office

Just remember, if you’re signing up to a web service hosted in the U.S.A., you’ll want to take note of their privacy policies before you give up any personal information. The United States have different privacy projection laws than Canada does. The Canadian government released these tips for protecting your personal information across borders

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Communicating Effective

By Learning Commons Web Team on January 10, 2023 |Tagged with:

Effective communication takes practice, and a strong interest in understanding (and being understood) by others. It’s about listening, and making time to ensure that your group is OK and on the right track with your project.

What do you need to communicate about?

Here are some of the things groups usually need to communicate about:

  • Getting to know each other
  • Creating group process guidelines (group charter)
  • Brainstorming ideas
  • Solving problems
  • Checking on progress
  • Sharing drafts
  • Discussing content
  • Providing feedback and encouragement
  • Seeking agreement/opinion

Just remember, if you’re signing up to a web service hosted in the U.S.A., you’ll want to take note of their privacy policies before you give up any personal information. The United States have different privacy projection laws than Canada does. The Canadian government released these tips for protecting your personal information across borders

Tools to Support Communication

If you’re using Canvas, you might have been assigned a private group discussion area for working together. If your group process is being evaluated, you might want to make sure you keep your communication within Connect, where the instructor has access to it. If you aren’t being evaluated on communication, though, then you can use whatever tool you want to communicate.

  • Canvas discussions, as mentioned, are group discussion spaces on Canvas that can only be accessed by you and your group. This allows for asynchronous communication: not everyone needs to be online at the same time to talk. Discussion items can be posted and responded to at any time.
  • Skype is a free VoIP tool which allows you to communicate with video, audio, and text. It’s like conference calling, but with your computer, and absolutely free. Skype is just one of many VoIP tools.
  • Email! While long email chains can quickly become cumbersome, email allows your group to keep records, and almost everyone has an email address they check regularly.

Wikis and other online collaborative writing tools can help, too. Check them out when you have a chance.

Communication Challenges

Sometimes working in groups brings up challenges. Here are a few of the more common communication problems, adapted from work done at the Derek Bok Centre, at Harvard University. They offer some examples of strategies that can be used to handle various problems.

  1. My group is floundering! This generally happens when people are having difficulty figuring out their role in a group, and decisions are being postponed. Suggesting a review of project goals and assigning roles can help the group to move forward.
  2. One person is dominating the discussion, or someone has checked out. Try encouraging participation by making sure that everyone’s ideas are heard before decisions are made, and speaking to quiet members outside of formal group meetings.
  3. My group goes off on too many tangents. Tangents can lead in creative directions, but too many prevent any work from being done. Review your timelines and summarize discussion to the point before you wandered off. Review any ideas that may spring from the tangent to see if they have merit.
  4. My group isn’t making any progress. If your group isn’t progressing, it can be disheartening. If this happens, ask the group what they think would help solve the problem. Review your timeline, goals, and progress made, and try to identify why you haven’t been moving forward.
  5. My group is acting before we agree on what to do!. Some people are more action-oriented than others, and pressure the group to start moving in directions that everyone might not be on board with. Take time to ensure there’s consensus in the group before moving ahead.
  6. Members in my group won’t stop fighting!. Sometimes people in a group just don’t see eye to eye. The group might not be able to move ahead until each viewpoint is heard. Consider assigning a mediator.
  7. People in my group don’t respect others. A private chat outside the group might help, or some intervention by the TA or instructor.

Guidelines for Online Communication

Know your context

  • Introduce yourself
  • Remember that culture influences communication style and practices. Stay open, ask questions, and avoid assumptions.
  • Instructors will usually set the tone for the group, and provide guidance/guidelines.
  • Familarize yourself with UBC’s policies on Responsible Use of Technology

Remember the human

  • We all come with personalities. Remember, there’s a person behind the words. Ask for clarification before making judgments.
  • Check your tone before you publish: will everyone understand what you’re saying?
  • Respond to people using their names.
  • Remember that culture, and even gender, can play a part in how people communicate.
  • Avoid jokes and sarcasm, especially online. It’s easy for your intention to get lost without your body language.

Text has permanence

  • What you say online is difficult to retract later. Be judicious.
  • Consider your responsibility to the group and the learning environment.
  • If you are working collaboratively, agree on ground rules for text communication. Will you be formal or informal?

Research before you react

  • Accept and forgive mistakes.
  • Consider your responsibility to the group and to the learning environment.
  • Seek clarification before reacting.

Ask your instructor for guidance

Respect privacy and original ideas

  • Use direct quotes before responding to a specific point made by someone else.
  • Ask the author of an email before forwarding it.

Sometimes, online behavior can appear so disrespectful and even hostile that it requires attention and follow up. In this case, let your instructor know right away so that the right resources can be called upon to help.

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Group Process

By Learning Commons Web Team on January 10, 2023 |Tagged with:

Getting started with your group? One of the first things you might want to do is create a document, sometimes called a group charter, which clarifies what the group is about, what the group expects from its members, and other, related guidelines. Group charters make sure everyone’s on the same page, and prevent any disagreements or miscommunication. Make sure everyone has access to this document: this can be a great way to kick-start a discussion about how files will be shared.

Here are the main points of a successful group charter:

  • Lay down the ground rules.
  • Set up a meeting schedule.
  • Define your roles and tasks.
  • List the supporting tools you’ll use.

Establishing Ground Rules

This involves agreeing on how the group will work together.

For example:

  • How will you make sure communication stays respectful?
  • How will you deal with problematic interactions, on- and offline?
  • How will you address conflict or deal with disagreements in the group?
  • How will you make sure that everybody participates equally?
  • What are the rules for dealing with a member who hasn’t been communicating? How frequently should group members communicate/check in?
  • How will you ensure that everybody participates meaningfully? How will you make sure everyone’s contribution is valued?
  • How are decisions made in the group? Do you operate democratically, by the use of roles, or something else?
  • What technologies will support your group meetings? IM programs, Canvas discussion boards, Skype, etc.?
  • What’s the group’s primary goal? Getting an ‘A’? A good learning experience? The chance to try something new?

Resources related to ground rules:

Communicating Effectively (Chapman Learning Commons)

Create a Schedule

It’s important to create, agree on, and stick to a meeting schedule that works for everyone. You’ll need to consider:

  • Assignment requirements and due dates.
  • What you need to do face-to-face, in real time, as opposed to what you can do online.
  • What you have time to contribute to, given your individual schedules.
  • What constitutes satisfactory participation: how much time members have to spend a week, what happens if deadlines are missed, etc. Reference your ground rules.
  • Set your schedule and post online for everyone to view and refer to.

Once you’ve answered those questions, set your schedule and put it online somewhere everyone can access it.

Resources related to schedules:

Meeting Strategies to Help Prepare Students for Group Work (University of Waterloo)

Doodle is a free online scheduling tool which helps reconcile different timetables.

Designate roles and tasks

If you feel like your group could benefit from some structure, you might want to assign roles to each individual: these help clarify what everyone is responsible for. Here are some suggested roles, with brief descriptions of what each role is responsible for.

  • Facilitator: organizes and facilitates meetings. The facilitator sets the agenda and makes sure everyone’s voice is heard.
  • Summarizer: summarizes what was discussed in each meeting. The note taker also outlines the next steps for the project after each meeting, including who’s responsible for what.
  • Note taker: takes meeting notes. The note taker is responsible for posting the notes somewhere group members can access.
  • Progress chaser: follows up with group members to ensure that things move forward. The progress chaser is responsible for making sure everyone stays on track.
  • Timekeeper: the time keeper is responsible for making sure everything happens according to the schedule. This includes reminding everyone how much time is left in meetings, as well as the project as a whole, and what’s left to be done.
  • Presenter: presents the materials that are created by the group.
  • Mediator: helps resolve conflicts where they arise, making decisions when necessary.

Resources related to roles:

Meeting Strategies to Help Prepare Students for Group Work (University of Waterloo)

How People Function in Groups: Roles that Contribute to the Work and Atmosphere (Derek Bok Center – Harvard)

Just remember, if you’re signing up to a web service hosted in the U.S.A., you’ll want to take note of their privacy policies before you give up any personal information. The United States have different privacy projection laws than Canada does. The Canadian government released these tips for protecting your personal information across borders.

Choose Your Tools

It’s never been easier to collaborate on documents together, or to communicate online. The work you do as a group will be supported by the communication tools you select, so choose wisely! Here are some options:

  • Google Drive is a cloud-based office suite ideal for collaborative writing/presentation projects.
  • The UBC Wiki is open to the entire UBC community. Share links, upload resources, create pages, and capture your ideas.
  • Canvas discussion forums might be set up for your group by your instructor, allowing for asynchronous (not everyone has to be online at once) communication. Like any message board, discussion items can be posted and responded to at any time.
  • Skype is a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) program which allows you to communicate using voice, video, and text. It’s a free, online conference call. Other VoIP programs exist, but Skype is popular, free, feature-rich, and comes installed on many computers by default.
  • Phone conversations
  • Email

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Office Hours

By Learning Commons Web Team on January 10, 2023 |Tagged with:

Going to your professor or TA during office hours is a great way to get to know your instructors and get some extra help. Here are a few tips to help you feel prepared and get the most out of your professor’s office hours.

Do:

  • Start attending office hours at the beginning of the term, when professors and TAs are generally less busy and have more time to spend with you.
  • Ask your professors about their research. Most professors are busy working away at a project, or journal article, or even a book. If you are interested in what they are doing, let them know!
  • Review your lecture notes before going to your professor’s office to make sure you cannot answer your question on your own. This will also help you to narrow down the question you are asking.
  • Ask for help with your assignment well before the due date. Professors may get frustrated trying to explain the assignment if you have waited until the deadline. If you tend to work on assignments at the last minute, make sure you understand the criteria well in advance and seek clarification as soon as possible.
  • Visit professors if you have missed a class, but make sure to read through the lecture notes and bring a short list of a few concepts that you have spent time reviewing and are still unsure about. Asking professors to re-cap everything you missed last class is both frustrating and time-consuming, so do the work before you visit them.
  • If you would like to ask professors and TAs for references, it is important to establish a relationship with them first so that they know who you are beyond the classroom. Keep in mind that getting a good grade is not always a qualifier for getting a reference from a professor so it is important to establish a relationship with them first. Office hours are a great way to do this!

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2022 Wrap Up: How to Make the Most of Your Winter Break!

By CLC Web Team on December 22, 2022 |Tagged with:

Today is the last day of exams, we made it! To quote a fellow student from our Board of Thoughts, “You are more than just one brief moment in time! A test does not define you!” Nevertheless, it is crucial to recognize your hard-work in positive ways! At the Chapman Learning Commons, we compiled a list of fun activities and resources to share for the winter season.

A table with candles, pinecone and a tiny house
Photo by Sweta Meininger on Unsplash

 

Tired of watching the same stuff on Netflix over and over again?

For movie lovers, UBC provides free access to thousands of films through their databases.

Audio Cine Films Digital Campus Collection (Popular movies from Disney, Marvel, Pixar, DC, etc.)

UBC Kanopy (Documentaries and award-winning collections including from PBS, BBC etc.)

Criterion on Demand (Selections from 20th Century Fox, Paramount Pictures, DreamWorks SKG, Sony Pictures Classics, Warner Brothers, Lionsgate Films etc.)

For a host of more online activities during Winter Break, check out Minori’s Things to Do for Free from Home.

Run out of holiday films to pass the time? Read these fun blogs by the fireplace!

Staying in Vancouver this winter and missing home? Check out Sara’s blog on Food to Cure Homesickness

A warm drink and books are the best combination on a cold winter day. Here are a few reading recommendations for our fellow CLCAs! Must-Reads for Summer 2022 and Must-Reads for Reading Week 2022 Fall.

With the spirit of giving rich in the air, what is better than great student discounts? Read Nuriya’s blog post on Exclusive Student Discounts You Can’t Miss This Holiday!

Considering a new role or experience for the new year? Content creation may be for you! See Ozioma’s advices on What to Consider Before You Start Content Creating

More of an outdoor person with a love for snowy activities? Check out Doua’s Guide to Spending Winter Break in Vancouver!

Last but not least, congratulations! Take a moment to celebrate YOU. Not only for the academic accomplishment but everything else that you achieved in 2022. Great job on those early mornings, daily jogs, and amazing cups of coffee, the list goes on! Remember, your success in school is not the only thing that defines you. You are always so much more!

Happy Holidays and have a wonderful Winter Break!

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A Guide to Spending Winter Break in Vancouver!

By Doua on December 9, 2022 |Tagged with:

Vancouver is a beautiful city: even more so when it’s covered in snow and you can finally cozy up under a blanket with a mug of hot chocolate. Whether it’s your first time in Vancouver or you’ve decided to stay here for the break, here are some winter activities that’ll make you feel like the main character! There are so many fun things to do at this time of the year and having grown up in this city, I was even surprised to see some items on this list.  

1. Hit the Slopes

Vancouver has some of the best mountains including Grouse, Seymour, and Cypress. You can go snowboarding, skiing, but if you’re looking for something more chill but still as fun, you can try out snow tubing! You might be wondering what that is, let me explain: you ride these big comfy round tubes and it’s so thrilling when you’re rushing down the slope. I remember going tubing for the first time when I was in Grade 7 on a field trip and it was probably one of the most fun times I’ve ever had. Looking back, it just reminds me of that nostalgic youthful spirit you have when you’re a kid. What made it more fun was laughing and screaming down the hill with all my friends, so I’d definitely recommend going in a group!

Photo by Erika on Flickr

2. Ice Skating

When I think of ice skating, my mind immediately goes to movie scenes and snowfalls and there’s something romantic about it. Every year there’s an outdoor ice rink set up in Robson Square downtown and it’s always decked out with decorations. The rink is scheduled to open in December and if you don’t have your own skates you can rent them for around $5. For those living on campus, there’s also an ice rink at Thunderbird Sports Center and you can check out this link for information about the drop-in schedule. The last time I went ice skating was for my 12th birthday, and I remember it was really exciting even though I didn’t know how to skate. My uncle took me, my siblings and my cousins to an indoor skating rink and I remember I kept falling and getting back up and falling again and bursting out laughing. My cousins are actually staying in Vancouver this winter so maybe we’ll go ice skating during the break and recreate that memory now that we’re all older. 

Photo by Stephen Rees on Flickr

3. Whistler Trip

If you’re looking to go on a road trip, Whistler is the perfect destination. It’s about a 2-hour drive north of Vancouver. If you’re looking to commute there, there are shuttle buses that leave from the downtown area or from the airport that range from $50-100. I’d suggest making this a 2-3 day trip since there’s so much to explore in Whistler. I remember driving up to Whistler a few years ago with my family and we stayed in this beautiful hotel. I remember it was snowing the entire time we were there. We rode the famous Peak to Peak Gondola and the views were incredible. We visited Whistler Village where there were so many shops, restaurants, and fun tourist attractions. If you decide to hit the slopes in Whistler, that would be a great idea too and you can even go snowmobiling. A trip like this would likely need planning so I find that creating an itinerary and tracking your budget in a journal really helps! 

Photo by Hamilton Nestman on Flickr

4. Bright Nights at Stanley Park

Stanley Park is one the best parks this city has to offer all year round but during the winter holidays it’s something else! The park is all decked out in these incredible lights and you can ride on the train all the way around the park. That probably sounds like something for kids but I think it’s still fun and spontaneous. I bet watching the flickering lights change color would feel magical. You can buy a ticket online or at the door and there are tons of food vendors that sell things including baked pastries, pretzels, churros, and hot chocolate. If you want to ride the train, the main attraction – you have to reserve your spot super early so keep that in mind! I haven’t gone to this one yet but I’m definitely excited to check it out with some friends this winter break.

Photo by Ray Van Eng on Flickr

These are just a few activities of many that you could try out this winter break if you’re planning to spend it here in Vancouver. Do you have any favorite winter activities of your own?

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Considering Academic Exchange? Go!

By Amaya on December 2, 2022 |Tagged with:

In my first year of university, I had the opportunity to go to an international field school in Vietnam for an academic exchange. I am currently in my final year and I have not had an experience as enriching as that trip.

Girl on train through a mountain range.

Photo by JK on Unsplash

The engineering field school was hosted by Vancouver Island University (where I was a student before transferring to UBC) in partnership with Tra Vinh University in Tra Vinh, Vietnam. We were paired with first-year engineering students at the university and we engaged in both cultural and engineering projects. It was amazing to see how similar we all were despite our differences. Aside from that, it can be really refreshing to take classes in a new setting with your new friends. For example, in our engineering projects we used recycled materials to build a playground equipment. We also assisted upper year students to repair electrical systems in remote farming households. The cultural projects were fun too – we learned Vietnamese dances from Khmer culture and how to cook local cuisine.

Naturally, I expected to learn about the culture and enjoy good food – you know, the simple pleasures of travelling. What I didn’t expect was to learn so much about myself and make great friends (mostly with the help of Google Translate)! There were, of course, many ups and downs during the trip, but in hindsight I feel like the “downs” were the best part. They put me in situations where I gained life experiences and personal insights.

It’s important to have an open mind and be adaptable when you’re on an exchange. The people that had the greatest time on the trip were open to unique experiences they could not find where they travelled from. For example, I quickly formed a morning routine of getting bánh mì (Vietnamese sandwich) and cà phê sữa đá (iced milk coffee). I still miss this combination and the little old lady who sold them to me!

Wall of Lanterns

Photo by Steffen B. on Unsplash

Another thing to keep in mind is to stay curious and inquisitive about the new culture that’s around you. At first, it might seem overwhelming because each culture has unique values and social etiquette. However, my biggest takeaway from the trip was that whenever I got lost or confused, people were always willing to help me despite the language barriers! It was very heartwarming to see that kindness transcends all borders and cultures.

If you’re interested in going on exchange, UBC has many options! Consider doing a semester, summer or research abroad through Go Global! UBC also has classes with international field schools such as ISCI 361 (Hawaii), ISCI 461 (Iceland), or ECON 364B (India, Kenya, Uganda).

Have you been on exchange before? I would love to hear all about your experiences and favourite memories in the comments below!

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Exclusive Student Discounts You Can’t Miss This Holiday!

By Nuriya on November 25, 2022 |Tagged with:

Disclaimer: Some of these deals are time-dependent. Check to make sure they still apply for you.

Hello everyone! My name is Nuriya, and I love hunting for discounts. Why pay more when you can save money? I understand how finances are a tough subject when people are attending a university, so I’ve decided to share some of my favorite deals available exclusively to students. Take advantage of them before you graduate!

UNiDAYS

Last year I discovered the UNiDAYS website where you can search up many student discounts and use them through an affiliation with your institutional email (learn how to get your student email here). I have used them to purchase an amazing pair of sneakers at Nike’s – with the 10% exclusive discount for students! Moreover, I was able to get free 2nd generation Airpods after getting an iPad Air for my studies. I believe the Airpods deal is already finished, but it never hurts to keep an eye on what future deals might be!

My favorite deal with UNiDAYS is the 6-months free Amazon Prime Subscription. Amazon prime saved me multiple times, whether that be ordering a fiction book for my English class or an urgent gift for my friend’s birthday. The delivery is usually within one or two days!

Microsoft 365 Office

As UBC students, we have access to various professional software free of charge. I found myself using Microsoft 365 Office quite often for my coursework, since it’s available on personal devices, which includes MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint and more.  For more creative use, UBC students can use Adobe Products on Labs and Shared Devices (like the Library computers). At Chapman Learning Commons, all of our computers are equipped with all the necessary creative software you might need for creating audio-visual projects: Photoshop, Animate, Illustrator, Premiere Pro. Apart from that, all UBC students can access a sound buffered DIY Room on IKB Floor 3 that contains a Mac with the creative applications installed. It also provides patrons with access to microphones, a DJ mixing board, and a video camera. I personally love seeing students use it for so many different projects, and I am thrilled to use it sometime in the future for my video recording & editing. Book your time here.

Student Passes Around Vancouver

Another thing to remember is various student passes in Vancouver. Personally, I love going to the movies at Rio Theatre, and I am happy it sometimes offers subsidized student tickets. Another student pass discount for outdoor activities is at Capilano Suspension Bridge. As well, the Lynn Canyon Bridge is just down the road from there – completely free of charge. As an international student, I was mesmerized by how picturesque the views on the bridges have been and I believe that any person visiting Vancouver should visit them! 

I am also planning to go skiing this year. I want to start with a one-time pass, but if you are a professional or a ski enthusiast – look for student passes at Grouse, EpicPass (allows students to use the pass at the Whistler Blackcomb and many other locations).

Hopefully, some of the deals I mentioned could make your experience as a student more fun! If you have other deals I missed, share them in the comments below!

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What is a Food Coma and How to Avoid it!

By Leonard on November 18, 2022 |Tagged with:

Photo by Daniel Lincoln on Unsplash

Despite a good night’s sleep, I still felt dizzy and tired during the afternoon. I found myself losing focus during the lecture and desperate for an afternoon nap. Worse still, my productivity dropped and I had to spend extra time to get things done. This has been the case in my second year since I started my workout routine. I was not aware of the cause until I took a nutritional course that inspired me to do some research. After all, I discovered that what had been bothering me every afternoon was a dietary change I made with the hope to build more muscles, and this dietary change had led to a condition called postprandial somnolence.

Postprandial somnolence, also known as a food coma, is the heavy and sleepy feeling after having a meal. It secretly drained my energy, along with my ability to focus and made me want to sleep. If you are ever stuck in the same situation, please don’t worry! This is a good opportunity for us to learn more about foods and how our body responds to them. After doing some research, I discovered two dietary-related factors that often make me feel heavy and sleepy.

The number one contributor to my food coma was a big increase in the amount of refined carbs (i.e. processed carbohydrates) that I added to my lunchbox. I realized that the white rice and sandwich bread I usually had for lunch are basically all refined carbs. These refined carbs have a pretty high glycemic index and an excessive amount of these led to a rapid spike in my blood glucose level. When my blood glucose level was overly high, it made me feel especially tired and heavy. In addition, my body had to release a huge amount of a hormone called insulin to bring my blood glucose back down to normal. This dramatic and unsustainable change worsened my situation and brought me into a state of reactive hypoglycemia, also know as a sugar crash. In such a case, I felt more tired and sleepy because my body mistakenly thought that there was not enough glucose in my blood (due to the excessive amounts of insulin) and that I was starving (because of the low level of blood glucose).

Blood glucose levels spike quickly after eating refined carbs which can make people feel tired and sleepy. Shortly after, a rapid drop in blood glucose occurs, below the normal level. This drop can cause people to feel even more tired than before.

The second factor made me struggle a lot because protein-rich foods can also contribute to a food coma. Since I wanted to build muscles, I added more meats and eggs to increase my protein intake. However, protein is made of amino acids and one of them, called tryptophan, is directly associated with sleepiness. Essentially, this amino acid can be convert into serotonin, a neurotransmitter that promotes the body to relax and feel comfortable. Interestingly, serotonin can also turn into melatonin, a sleep hormone that promotes sleep. Although this phenomenon is natural, adding more protein sources or combining them with refined carbs made things worse for me. That was probably the biggest reason why I felt especially tired after lunch because my lunchbox was not only full of white rice but also topped with a lot of chicken!

I started making adjustments to my diet with the hope to improve the situation. After experimenting for a few months, I found switching from refined carbs to whole grain to be a really good strategy! In particular, I found brown rice and whole wheat bread to be better because these carbs have a lower glycemic index compared to their counterparts. If you are a meat lover or on a high-protein diet like I am, I found reducing my meat intake or leaving them until dinnertime to help control food coma in the afternoon.

I hope this blog post provide some insight on how food comas can arise from our diet. Comment below and let us know if you have any tips or tricks to counteract that mid-afternoon slump!

References 

Lehrskov LL, Dorph E, Widmer AM, et al. The role of IL-1 in postprandial fatigue. Mol Metab. 2018;12:107-112. doi:10.1016/j.molmet.2018.04.001

Reactive Hypoglycemia: Causes, How It Feels, Triggers (verywellhealth.com)

Jenkins TA, Nguyen JC, Polglaze KE, Bertrand PP. Influence of tryptophan and serotonin on mood and cognition with a possible role of the gut-brain axis. Nutrients. 2016;8(1):56. doi:10.3390/nu8010056

What is the Glycemic Index? (www.diabetes.ca)

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Happy Fall Reading Week!

By Sam on November 11, 2022 |Tagged with:

Hello UBC, 

Happy fall reading week! If you are looking for a way to take a break from studying, check our “Must-reads for Reading Week” blog post for book recommendations from the CLC student staff. 

Try engaging in a conversation with your fellow UBC students on our 2022 Fall Board of Thoughts! We have a brand-new set of topics for you to share your experiences and reflections on!  

The Board of Thought is a community board – a place to share ideas and comments! It is found online here and joining the conversation is as simple as clicking the “+” sign. Once your comment is approved, it will appear as a new block within the column of the prompt that you chose to reply to. 

Visit our physical Board of Thoughts location – it’s next to the Chapman Learning Commons Help Desk in IKBLC, beside the entrance to the MAA Library. Please feel to comment online, in person, or both! 

If you would like to share your experience interacting with the Board of Thoughts, please let us know in the comment section – we would love to hear from you! 

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Must-Reads for Reading Week 2022 Fall

By Grace on November 4, 2022 |Tagged with:

It’s November and Reading Week is just around the corner. If you’re looking to curl up with your next great read, look no further than this list of book recommendations from the student staff team here at Chapman Learning Commons! Whether you’re interested in science fiction, classic literature, or non-fiction, we’ve got just the book for you.

Keeping Up With Recent Releases:

Always on top of the trends? Here are our favorite new books!

 The Inheritance Game Book Cover

The Inheritance Games

Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Mystery Thriller; Young Adult; Romance

Synopsis:

This exciting New York Times bestselling trilogy follows Avery Grambs, a high schooler in Connecticut, who has her life flipped upside down when she receives news that she is to inherit almost all of billionaire Tobias Hawthorne’s fortune. Swept into a deadly game, Avery has to learn how to survive the dangerous world of the four Hawthorne grandsons and the mysterious Hawthorne House. 

Why Yasmeen loves it:
It’s thrilling and addictive. Plus, who wouldn’t want a random billionaire to leave his entire fortune for them?


 

Linked: Conquer Linkedln. Get Your Dream Job. Own Your Future

Linkedln Guys 

Non-fiction; Self-help

Synopsis:
Published in 2022 by the LinkedIn Guys (Omar Garriott and Jeremy Schifeling), Linked is a practical guide on how to optimize your LinkedIn profile to get more views from recruiters. It also shows you how you can connect with different kinds of people and how you can learn more about an industry or company.

Why India loves it:
This book is helpful for every type of person! Whether you are an entrepreneur or you are hoping to work for a company, this is your guide to building an online professional presence.

 

Book Lovers

Emily Henry

Contemporary fiction; Romance

Synopsis:
Literary agent Nora Stephens’ life is books, her clients, and her little sister Libby. When finally dragged by Libby into a sister’s trip at Sunshine Falls, North Carolina, Nora unexpectedly bumps into no-nonsense book editor Charlie Lastra. As a series of coincidences keep throwing them together, Nora and Charlie find themselves in a story no one saw coming.

Why Doua loves it:
Emily Henry’s characters are fleshed out very well, so Nora feels real and relatable. I love how Nora is described as an emotionless workaholic when, throughout the book, we paradoxically read about her perspective through her emotions and feelings.

True Stories Well-Told:

Are you interested in non-fiction? Here are our favorites from the genre!

Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams

Matthew Walker

Non-fiction; Science and Health; Self-Help 

Synopsis:
Written by Matthew Walker, professor of neuroscience and psychology at the University of California, Berkeley, Why We Sleep is a fascinating look at the history and science behind sleep. Based on up-to-date research, Walker offers crucial insight into how sleep is important to our physical and mental well-being as well as how we can sleep better every night.

Why Yuqing loves it:
This book is a really interesting read! Sleep is much more important, interesting, and wild than you would think. It also has a lot of information about other species’ sleep, which is very fun to read about.

 

Highway of Tears: A True Story of Racism, Indifferences and the Pursuit of Justice for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women

Jessica McDiarmid

Non-fiction; Social Justice

Synopsis:
Indigenous women and girls have gone missing or been murdered on Highway 16 to such an extent that the highway has also been known as the Highway of Tears. Journalist Jessica McDiarmid investigates the relentless fight of families and communities for justice, the climate of systemic racism and indifference of the society that failed them, and the importance of learning about and honoring the victims.

Why Chris loves it:
It’s a great book, and it’s important to educate yourself on the injustices that indigenous women have faced in BC.

 

Short Reads, Tall Tales:

Looking for something you can finish in one setting? Here are our favorite short stories and novellas!

 

Burning Chrome

William Gibson

Science-Fiction; Short Story 

Synopsis:
This exciting science fiction short story by Canadian-American author William Gibson follows two freelance hackers who use a sophisticated Russian hacking software to steal money from a criminal known as Chrome.

Why Maxine loves it:
I really love science fiction, and I think William Gibson is a great introduction to the genre for beginners. I also really love the social commentary the book has to offer.

 

Of Mice and Men

John Steinbeck

Literary Fiction; Novella

Synopsis:
This classic novella follows the experiences of two migrant ranch workers, George Milton and Lennie Small, during the Great Depression of the 1930s. One of Steinbeck’s most well-known and well-loved books, Of Mice and Men is a close and profound exploration of ambition, loneliness, hardship, and friendship.

Why Sakura loves it:
It’s one of the classics and relatively short!

Books From Around the World:

Interested in stories from other countries and cultures? Here are our favorite books in translation!

The Unbearable Lightness of Being

Milan Kundera 

Literary Fiction; Philosophical Fiction

Synopsis:
Set mainly in Prague during the late 1960s and early 1970s, The Unbearable Lightness of Being follows four very different characters in the aftermath of the 1968 Prague Spring, the Soviet invasion of Czechoslovakia, and the crackdown on liberalization.

Why Amaya loves it:
This modern classic gave me a lot of great insights into many aspects of life and you find yourself relating to a lot of things that the characters experience. Philosophical fiction is one of my favorite genres, and I thought it was an enjoyable read!

 

Breasts and Eggs

Mieko Kawakami 

Literary Fiction; Philosophical Fiction

Synopsis:
Breasts and Eggs is a close look at the lives of three women (thirty-year-old Natsuko, her older sister Makiko, and Makiko’s teenage daughter Midoriko) in Tokyo. Kawakami’s intimate account of working class womanhood in contemporary Japan reveals the fear, frustration, and uncertainty of living in a society where the odds are stacked against them. 

Why we love it:
This book offers great insight into how society is changing, as well as the challenges and difficulties posed by living against social expectations. 

 

If you have any books you’d like to share, please put them in the comments below!

 

For more great recommendations from previous blogs, you can find them here: 

Must-Reads for Reading Week 2021
Must-Reads for Reading Week 2022

Book cover images from Amazon

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Using Podcasts: A Time Management and Wellness Strategy

By Valentina on October 28, 2022 |Tagged with:

Paul H. Joseph on UBC Brand & Marketing

In-between classes, I like watching TV while having lunch: any comedy that makes me laugh, or short documentary that teaches me something. I prefer 30-minute episodes as they allow me to allocate my time efficiently – if I watched one, it meant I spent half an hour cooking/eating lunch, if I watched two, it meant I spent one hour relaxing, and when the third episode started playing, I knew time was up: I had to continue with my day!

However, I recently met a commuter student who recommended that I try out podcasts. After the pandemic, they found it hard to start commuting again but podcasts helped them overcome motion sickness, distracting them from the long commute time, while exploring topics they were interested in.  I am a visual learner so the idea of listening to someone talk non-stop didn’t appeal to me at first; in fact, the idea of a podcast seemed monotonous and boring.

I had some friends that were part of a UBC student-led podcast group, that inspired me by stating how much we can learn from conversations with our professors and alumni and how all that content is recorded, edited and shared as a podcast for the UBC community. So, I decided to give it a try and learn more about how to incorporate podcasts into my routine.

Time Management and Wellness Strategy 

Like watching TV shows at lunch, podcasts enabled me to continue allocating my time efficiently. I am aware of how long an episode is and hence, I plan my to-do schedule carefully. I can even plan my queue in advance to make sure I do not go beyond my allocated time.  When my queue is over, I know that I finished listening to my selected episodes and hence, X amount of minutes has passed.

Podcasts allow me to be time efficient. Like TV Shows, I know how long an episode is and can plan my queue in advance. I found that listening to podcasts while eating allows me to give more attention to my surroundings. First, I can cook without the need to look at a screen and fully focus on what I am doing. This has, of course, increased how safe I am in the kitchen and allows me to cook even faster as my eyes do not wander anymore from the screen to pans!

In regard to my eating habits, I did not have the visual stimulus and hence, my brain can process better what I was having for lunch. Furthermore, after some research on the topic, I read that watching TV while eating actually tends to make the individual over-eat and not absorb the nutrients efficiently.

Hence, the podcast allowed me to have a less intense session to fully enjoy my lunch while learning about new things.

Consuming Podcasts: Platform Comparison 

The first step to start your Podcast journey is to decide which platform to use. There is no wrong or right answer, but I do recommend exploring their main differences. Personally, I find it overwhelming to use more than one but feel free to explore them and make your own conclusions.

Below I compare three main podcast platforms, as they are all aligned to different student’s needs and personal preferences.

Apple Podcast

Photo by C D-X on Unsplash

Main assets: Bonus content, compatible with Apple devices

Weaknesses:  Not recommended for Android users

Google Podcast

Main assets: Personalized recommendation, Compatible with other Google Products

Weaknesses:  Not recommended for non-google users, no laptops/desktop downloads

Spotify Podcast

Main assets: Free of Cost (but has ads), Offline Listening

Weaknesses:  To access additional service/features, you need to buy a membership

Regardless of what app you use to listen to podcasts, the important thing is that you are exploring your interests and being able to truly enjoy the content you prefer. I firmly believe that if you do not like podcasts, it is because you have not found your style yet. For instance, I used to watch a great deal of comedy sitcoms, and hence, my favorite podcasts are the amusing ones, with laughable content that incorporate jokes and add a smile to my face.

Podcast in Our Community: Made by UBC

UBC PODCAST NETWORK

Looking for something new to listen to? Alumni UBC offers you hours of podcasts; the best is yet to come! Including but not limited to From Here Forward, alumni UBC Podcast Archives, My Financial Life, Your Next Career Step and Joy in the Summer.

THE GLOBAL MIGRATION PODCAST 

It brings in guest speakers and experts to discuss a series of migration-related topics and their impacts on global and local scales. The Global Migration Podcast is a new initiative created by Douglas Ober. Discover all episodes from seasons 1, 2, and 3.

MEIJI AT 150 PODCAST 

In the Meiji at 150 Podcast, host Tristan Grunow (UBC) interviews specialists of Japanese history, literature, art, and culture.  Topics covered will range from the position of the Meiji Restoration and Meiji Period in each scholar’s research, to how they view the significance of the Restoration in Japanese and global history, and finally to how they teach the Meiji Period in their classrooms.  Follow us to hear about the recent research of prominent scholars of Japan along with their pedagogical approaches to one of Japan’s most transformative periods.

MEDAMORPHOSIS PODCAST 

Inspired by a lack of resources focused on career planning, UBC Medicine students created the MEDamorphosis Podcast as a part of their coursework. Over two-dozen episodes later, a revolving roster of UBC Medicine students are recording and producing bi-weekly episodes. The show features interviews with various physicians across Canada with an aim of helping medical students navigate their career and choose a specialty.

IONA ASKS 

The newest addition to the IONA catalogue, IONA Asks is a podcast that seeks to connect students of economics at all levels. Released weekly, there are four divisions: (1) A discussion with current VSE faculty about the life of an economist working in academia; (2) An educational podcast meant to provide concise explanations of complex economic phenomena; (3) Insightful discussions with alumni about careers after economics; and (4) Informative explorations of key developments in the news related to economics.

TRADING TALK

Trading Talk is a podcast from the UBC Trading Group. Each episode interviews our peers as they navigate the world of finance.

References 

Borelli, L. (2022, September 22). The 5 best podcast apps of 2022. ZDNET. Retrieved October 21, 2022, from https://www.zdnet.com/article/best-podcast-app/

Emerald, Z. (2022, March 24). Is watching TV while eating harming for teens and students? – logical daily. Logical Daily TV News, Entertainment News. Retrieved October 21, 2022, from https://logicaldaily.com/is-watching-tv-while-eating-harming-for-students/

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The Ultimate Guide to Time Management – Part 2

By Sam on October 21, 2022 |Tagged with:, , ,

Photo by Alvaro Reyes on Unsplash

If you got excited about the first part of this blog series, you will love this even more!

Calendars are great for high–level planning of our schedules. However, they may not be the perfect fit for planning bigger projects. I use project management tools for projects that span over one month or for group projects. These tools help in breaking down bigger tasks into smaller portions, visualizing timelines, and dividing tasks among team members.  

Here is my experience with some project management tools I have used in the past. Good news, these tools are free to use with your student email!  

Teamwork 

Teamwork is a project management tool that is used for project planning, time tracking, budgeting, customer relationship management and more.  I found Teamwork easy to navigate between each step of my projects. It was also helpful to see how tasks have been delegated on individual projects and the overall progress of the team. I also found it satisfying crossing tasks off my list. Teamwork has features like Gantt charts, which is a horizontal bar chart that illustrates a project schedule. Some other features that I liked about Teamwork are the centralized document management system for keeping track of all documents on the project, calendar view and board view. Being able to see what tasks are due in order of priority helped me with planning my time. 

Created by Sam in Teamwork

Trello 

Trello has a similar concept for managing tasks.  The platform uses Kanban board as the main method for managing tasks and projects. Kanban boards visually depict work at various stages of a process using cards to represent work items and columns to represent each stage of the process. I used this in my second year for my relatively smaller projects in my laboratory course, managing my tasks as a Residence Advisor and for planning some of my assignments. I enjoyed using it as it was easy to set up and manage.  

Created by Sam in Trello

monday.com  

monday.com is  a cloud-based platform that allows users to create tools for managing processes, projects and everyday work. I like monday.com because it integrates nicely with other software and apps such as Teams, Outlook, and Jira. The software allows you to create workflows, assign tasks to team members. It also helps to visualize project progress in different ways including Gantt chart, Kanban boards, and Calendar view.  

These tools have overlapping features, so it’s a good idea to just choose one and stick to it if there is a specific feature you prefer.  

How I integrate calendars and project management tools 

For my general planning, I use a combination of Google Calendar, a physical journal/planner and a Gantt chart (built in Monday.com) for bigger team assignments like a capstone project.  

  • I use my calendar to capture the “big picture” schedule. I take note of any important dates, such as deadlines or dates for action items. My preference in the past few years because you can set them up to give you reminders in advance of your important deadlines.  
  • From the “big picture” schedule in my Google Calendar, I make a list of deadlines for tasks due in the next 1 – 7 days. Then, I add them to my physical planner for each day of the week. This helps me filter all my tasks to only the urgent and important ones for the week. 
  • For specific projects or tasks at work or school I use Monday.com to build a Gantt chart to visualize timelines and workflows as well as set deadlines for each step of my projects. It is important to check-in with the team to assess their comfort level with any tool you decide to use. If I am the assigned “project manager” I will delegate tasks to others on the team for each step of the project. This is helpful for the whole team to visualize the breakdown of each task and to stay on track.  

Time management is a skill that can be learned just like any other skill. Sometimes all it takes is experimenting various strategies to really know what works best. However, it is equally important to be patient and kind with ourselves as we learn and navigate our busy lives. 

I hope this post series has been helpful. If you have tried any of these tools in the past, share your experience in the comment section below! 

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The Ultimate Guide to Time Management – Part 1

By Sam on October 14, 2022 |Tagged with:, , , ,

Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya on Unsplash

As students, we can all relate to having a super full and sometimes stressful schedule. If you don’t, I am telling you it will happen from experience! Having to manage my full engineering course load with multiple extracurricular involvements and part time jobs has taught me that the way to get through it is to up your time management skills. While there are several tools for time management, digital calendars and other online tools have been helpful for me in the past.

Calendars are a no-brainer. Everyone uses them – otherwise, how am I supposed to know that I have to sprint from Place Vanier to Buchanan at 8am on a Monday morning? Calendars, whether digital or physical, have played an essential part in my day-to-day life as they track which classes, meetings or events I have for the day, week, or month. However, there is more to calendars than just scheduling meetings and events.

How I use online calendars to plan my time

Some initial planning is required when it comes to time management. One of the first things I do at the beginning of the semester is to download my class schedule to my calendar once I have finalized my courses. This is how I create my plan in a few simple steps:

  • Create a calendar for each class and other commitments

I like to create a separate calendar for each of my classes and other involvements such as: part-time jobs, sports, or even career/professional development. Each calendar is color-coded, so I can easily visualize what activities or events are upcoming.

  • Add all important dates and deadlines from the course syllabus to each calendar

Once each calendar is set up within the app, I go to the class syllabus to get the important dates like midterms and projects/assignments deadline and transfer them to each of the calendars I made for those classes. I also set multiple reminders depending on the type of task or deadline.

  • Schedule your activities in your calendar

I find it helpful to schedule all my activities in my calendar. It gives my day more structure when I plan to eat breakfast, lunch and dinner, do my assignments, and hang out with friends or just rest in my calendar. Although having all our daily activities could reduce our chances of procrastinating, wasting time, it is also good to note that it is okay to not get everything done on our lists or calendar.

  • Check for upcoming dates periodically

After setting up my calendar with all the important dates and deadlines, I check my calendar at the beginning of the week to see which deadlines are coming up. That helps me identify the most urgent tasks that I need to accomplish, so I add them to my to-do lists in my journal/planner accordingly.

As the semester goes by, I update my calendar with any new deadline. I also like to check my calendar on a weekly basis for upcoming deadlines, tasks, or action items. This helps me identify more urgent tasks that go on my journal/day planner.

Created by Sam in Google Calendar

Types of Calendars I Use 

iCalendar

This is the default calendar app for iPhones. The app works well in setting up meetings and events, but it was particularly helpful being able to download my class schedules directly from the SSC into my calendar. I get reminders about my upcoming classes, which often saves me from being late from classes when I decide to take a break to grab lunch between classes. It also gives a “time to leave” alert and how long it takes to arrive based on what the traffic is like for the day.

Google Calendar

As an iPhone user, I have a tendency to stick with the default apps. However, the discovery of Google Calendar was revolutionary for me. I knew it existed, I just never attempted to try it until a friend recommended it. After using Google Calendar, I prefer it to iCalendar because of the user-friendly interface, ease of use, and versatility. Not only are you able to add events, but also goals, tasks and reminders. One of my favorite features on Google Calendar is that you can subscribe to the Canvas calendar and that automatically adds all your deadlines and important course dates into your calendar (check out how to do this below). Although, I wouldn’t rely fully on using just this to keep track of my deadlines, it could be a helpful tool to have!

To add your Canvas calendar to Google Calendar:
  • Go to your UBC Canvas Dashboard > Click Calendar > Click ‘Calendar Feed’ and copy the link that pops up.
  • Go to Google Calendar > Under ‘Other calendars’, click the + icon to add a new calendar > Click ‘From URL’ > paste your Canvas calendar link and it adds all your Canvas deadlines into a separate calendar!

Check out this student guide to learn more about how to use Canvas calendar!

Photo by Estee Janssens on Unsplash

Journals/Day Planners

I like to use journals/physical planners in addition to my digital calendars to track my short term (1 – 5 days) tasks/to-do lists. I also find it helpful to have a space where I can note down things that are important when I am in classes taking notes or just studying in the library. Personally, I prefer using physical journals/planners, but I know some might prefer digital ones. If you prefer using digital planners, check out this post for a guide on how to set up and use Notion.

Time management is a skill that takes time to build and I am constantly learning as well. I hope this post gives you some insights on how you can get started or make changes to your strategies. Feel free to leave a comment to let me know if you have used any of the calendars or features before!

Stay tuned for part two if you want to learn about tools beyond calendars that can help you manage your projects!

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A Beginner’s Guide to Notion

By Doua on October 7, 2022 |Tagged with:

Have you ever felt overwhelmed during the semester, like you have a million things to do and are not sure how you will possibly get everything done? Have you tried making to-do lists but found it hard to stick to them? Well, you’ve come to the right place! 

A little background on me: I’m a fourth-year UBC student and consider myself to be pretty organized. When it comes to tasks, assignments, and exams however, I often feel stressed that I have no time to study and complete everything I need to by the deadline. I was perusing YouTube during the summer because I heard of something called Notion. I wanted to see what it was about and if it was really as helpful as people were making it out to be. 

What is Notion?

Notion is an online workspace that you can use to organize and make plans. It’s a simple productivity app similar to the Notes app on your phone but with so many more features. When you first download the app there are default pages like a quick notes page, a deadlines page, and a reading list page. You can use the app to: 

    • Write notes for class 
    • Create to-do lists 
    • Note down assignments and deadlines 
    • Calculate grades
    • Plan budget 
    • Make travel plans 
    • Set goals and so much more!

Long story short, I fell down a rabbit hole and realized there is so much you can do with Notion! I use it to keep my thoughts organized and to create to-do lists to keep track of everything during the week. There are so many ways to customize it to yourself and your needs. You can search for templates online and use them as inspiration for what you want your Notion to look like (see below for some examples!). 

Think of Notion like a blank canvas that you can make however you like: 

    • Notion works with blocks and they can be whatever you want: text, headers, images, checklist, bullet points, toggle list, etc
    • You can add images and design them in a way that inspires you and fits your vibe 
    • You can place different items on the page in a way that suits you
    • You can add anything to the page like a calendar, different lists, or links that lead you to other pages

How I use Notion?

For me, I like to have a page of to-do lists, one list for immediate tasks and one for weekly tasks so I can prioritize my tasks. Then I have a list of weekly events so I’m reminded of it every time I look at it. I also have a calendar where I input all assignments, deadlines and exams which I check off once I finish (and I must admit it is very satisfying). I like having a visual tool like that to see exactly what my week looks like. Lastly, I have a page called brain dump where I just have all my thoughts down in bullet points. I like this way of journaling because I think putting down what I feel in words helps me figure out my emotions. 

As you can see below, this is my home page where I have my to-do lists and I can see them right when I open Notion. I used online templates as inspiration and decided to go for a Studio Ghibli theme. I added the pictures (which are actually GIFs so they move!) where I want them to be. And I’ve linked my calendar in the center column so when I click it I’m taken right to the page where I have all my exams and assignments deadlines.

Even in the way I have been utilizing Notion, I think there’s so much more for me to explore and I’m excited to find more ways to benefit from it as a student. I find it’s a much better way to manage time and feel accomplished. In conjunction with Notion, I use Google calendar to organize my week so check out our other blog for tips on using that. Have you used Notion before? What are your favourite tips and tricks?

Additional Resources: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8T_qrsTWnyk

https://www.notion.so/home-template-306fa890ea3544689bcde24389dd5bb5

https://bernicae.notion.site/bernicae/your-homey-home-58a41c378f3741489505a9f46899df2e

https://unruly-skate-31a.notion.site/96c41c279e3e4adfa85bc34a9ff59607

https://www.notion.so/mirandabriseno/Education-c1c6d328c4aa4e449bff5f1826e90779

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Culture Shock, And How to Address It

By Maxine on September 30, 2022 |Tagged with:, , , ,

Culture shock is a normal part of life – and as an international student myself, it definitely has been a huge part of my experience at UBC. Whether you’re an international student attending UBC for the first time, or a fresh graduate starting a new job, knowing how to deal with culture shock should be one of the first things on your radar!

Learn to recognize the symptoms of culture shock

Culture shock can manifest in many ways for different people. For some, culture shock can lead to feelings of discomfort, anxiety, and even frustration. Some may have an easier time adapting to a new place, but many more struggle with finding a sense of belonging. Remember to take a breather, re-center, and understand that you are not alone.

Give yourself time to adjust

In starting anything new, it is important to be easy on yourself– don’t worry about making mistakes! Remind yourself that everyone has had to ride the train for the first time; everyone has had to use Google Maps to find their way to their next class (Wayfinding UBC is a great, UBC-specific alternative)! There is no specific timeframe for when you will stop ‘adjusting’, either– most, if not all locals learn new things everyday!

Stay connected and find a sense of ‘home’

Establishing yourself in a community is incredibly important for many people embarking on a new adventure. This can mean different things for different people. For many at UBC, it’s joining a club and participating in local events. For others, community can mean joining a hobby group– as a voice actor, learning more about the industry in Vancouver really helped me find friends in the city. The most important thing is to find something that grounds you– something familiar and comforting.

Familiarize yourself with your new surroundings

Adapting to a new way of life can be tough, and challenge is a huge part of the process. There are several people around you willing to help, and the good ones are equally willing to learn more about you!

Understand that it never fully goes away

Culture shock is an experience that endures and reshapes itself– it never fully goes away. For example, international students visiting home for the first time in a while can find that they are different from the person they were before they left. In the time they were away, new trends, buildings, and changes in dynamics may have taken place. Life is constantly evolving and adapting, wherever you are. In this way, everyone deals with culture shock– everyone is always on their toes and getting used to new things!

Don’t be afraid to ask for help! 

Being able to ask for help is, arguably, one of the most useful skills you’ll ever learn. No one expects you to know everything– especially if you’re a newcomer! Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

If you find yourself facing serious mental health struggles or requiring specialized assistance, do not hesitate to seek professional help. At UBC, we offer mental health services to students, staff, and faculty, including a 24/7 mental health hotline, resources, and support for reaching out to licensed clinicians and psychiatrists.

Share what helps you deal with culture shock in the comments below!

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Things to Consider When Choosing a Digital or Physical Textbook

By Cindy on September 23, 2022 |Tagged with:

As a student, the beginning of the semester means budgeting challenges. On top of set expenditures like tuition, student fees, and rent, there are textbook costs. As more publishers move their content online, e-textbooks or physical copies become an important consideration I think about when purchasing materials. This blog post aims to compare and contrast the two formats of textbook and why students may opt for one over the other.   

Cost   

If you already have a device, digital textbooks are cheaper than brand new physical books. However, there are alternative ways for students to access more affordable physical copies. Not only does UBC Bookstore offer rental options, there are usually second-hand textbooks flowing around in different marketplaces.   

Tip: For some disciplines, the UBC library may have the resources you need. Check out their site before buying materials.   

Value  

Another aspect related to cost is the value of your purchase. Consider how long you would like to keep the book. I have some practical textbooks that are bookshelf worthy. Physical copies are yours if you buy them but many e-textbooks and rental books have expiry dates.   

Additionally, while I may keep some textbooks for future usage, most of my books are re-sold to other students. Places like UBC Bookstore, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist are helpful when it comes to getting part of my expenses back. Physical textbooks have a much higher re-sell value, especially if you can keep them in pristine condition. On the other hand, e-texts have a very low to no re-sell value as they are often restricted within platforms and rental periods. 

Functionality  

Function-wise, well, a physical book is a book: you can read, highlight, or write in it but that is pretty much it. A physical copy is limited in functionality, especially for someone who enjoys interactive activities like myself. 

Depending on the website or file format, the diversity of tools at your disposal is much greater in a digital copy. My favourite part of e-textbooks is the search function (command + F), especially for key concepts or terms. Beyond a basic pdf, platforms like VitalSource or LaunchPad also offer functionalities such as flashcards, bookmarks, or even quizzes to review your material.    

Convenience   

Being a psychology student, most of my textbooks are big, heavy, and have 300+ pages. Needless to say, having all my books on a single device is very convenient, especially as a commuting student. The downside of digital textbooks is their reliance on technology. Books do not require internet or power; they provide certain aspects of safety when your electronic device may fail due to technical difficulties.   

Something to consider: For open-book in-person exams, some profs do not allow technology so you either have to copy down all your textbook notes or bring in a physical book.   

Personal Considerations   

Scale with book and computer

At the end of the day, the format needs to be suitable for my learning needs. Having online textbooks means longer screen time and more distractions. Personally, I intake information from a physical book easier than e-text. Also, I love the feeling of holding a book: the texture and aesthetics cannot be replicated by an iPad or computer.   

When buying textbooks, there can be many considerations that help you decide what suits you the best. My experience with textbooks is as diverse as my courses, but I cannot cover it all. Share your experiences in the comments below when buying a textbook and your tips on how to save, other students will thank you for it! 

 

Here are some additional links or resources that might interest you as a student on this topic: 

  • Many lecturers and professors are opting for Open Education, you can learn more about the initiative and its resources here.  
  • Learn about UBC Senate’s principles on digital textbooks and how it impacts student’s options and learning.   
  • Check out this article on the reading brain and how it is impacted by digitalization.

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Studying While Neurodivergent: Advice From a Recent Graduate

By Sarah on September 16, 2022 |Tagged with:, ,

Part of being neurodivergent means figuring out how to navigate your environment to suit you best.

One of the hardest things I learned at UBC was the way everyone else studied, which, for the most part did not work for me. I could not compare my study methods to those of others or try out what they did with enough success for their tips and tricks to be viable. Through trial and error I ended up finding ways of studying that worked for me and my neurodivergent framework. I have shared them below in the hopes that they might help others too.

Studying

One of the biggest challenges I face when studying is sound sensitivity. I easily get overwhelmed and find it hard to focus when I am exposed to too many varying sounds. I find I study best when I am in complete silence or when I am listening to a curated playlist of songs that I know well enough that I can tune them out. Noise-canceling headphones are an ultimate plus for my focus. Frequently, I play the same song over and over again for the entire time I am studying

For me, true over-ear, noise cancelling headphones were too expensive, so I got earbuds instead. Noise-canceling earbuds was the best choice I made during my academic career. Not only did they help me when I was studying, but they also helped me with combatting living with roommates and their noise levels.

Pro-tip

While I did feel left out and slightly resentful that others found it so easy to study in groups, that kind of setting simply doesn’t work for me. I found that while studying alone was momentarily isolating, it was better to be in a quiet space, or at least a space whereI could control the noise levels If you live with roommates and find your own room too noisy, try some of the bookable IKBLC bookable study rooms or use a silent study room.

In-Person Classes

One of the aspects that I found most difficult during in-person classes was sharing the space with others. If you are like me, and have a hard time focusing on the lecturer when someone else is moving or making noise, I recommend sitting in the front row of the classroom. It seemed a bit awkward at first, but sitting there made it easier for me to focus on the class content being presented, instead of focussing on the person sitting two rows in front of me who would not stop playing with their hair.

Taking Exams

One of the biggest things that helped me improve my performance in my classes was to get registered with the Centre for Accessibility. There my particular needs were especially taken into account. Due to my noise sensitivity issues, I was able to get a private silent room to take my exams in after I registered with the student service. This allowed me to have an environment where I could concentrate and perform to the best of my ability on my exams. Plus, other students don’t have to know where you are taking exams if you don’t want them to, for whatever reason. You can simply state that you’re taking the exam at a different time due to a scheduling conflict.

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To the Class of 2026: Advice on Adjusting to Academic Learning at UBC

By Sara on September 9, 2022 |Tagged with:,

“Congratulations!

On behalf of the Admission and Financial Aid Committee, I am pleased to offer you admission to the UBC Class of 20…”

For all of us, those words were the beginning of an incredible journey at this beautiful university. They carried with them excitement, apprehension and hope and we saw them not only as a reward to our academic struggles and sacrifices; but also as a stepping stone to the realization of our future goals, dreams, and aspirations.

However, like many UBC students, I ended up realizing that it’s not all roses and daisies and that pursuing higher education came with its own list of challenges. One common area of struggle was academics, with regards to understanding the education system at UBC and its differences from what my peers and I were used to, especially coming fresh out of high school. Based on a collection of stories and advice from the student staff at the Chapman Learning Commons, this blogpost will compile the things we wished our freshman and sophomore selves would have known to make the academic transition from high school to post-secondary education at UBC smoother.

It is normal to feel like you have no idea what you’re doing

Woman sitting at desk and looking at laptop

It might not seem like it, but most of your classmates and peers are in the same boat and are also figuring out the undergraduate experience as they go. Academic requirements vary greatly between high school and post-secondary education and many students would agree that high school wasn’t always an adequate preparation. High school tends to have a very structured program whereas university relies a lot on personal discipline and responsibility. Additionally, the difference between faculties (areas of study) and degree programs can be overwhelming, and while there is a lot of information about each faculty and its supported concentrations, you might have to sift through multiple web pages to get all the information you will need.

There’s also the added challenge of understanding UBC’s education system and the new terms associated with it. For example, as an international student, it was in my first year that I understood that a faculty is synonymous with both a position (a faculty member) and an area of study (the Faculty of Forestry), and that degree programs are specific to faculties and support different concentrations. The earlier you understand these nuances, the easier it will be to plan for things like switching degree programs and adding other aspects to your degree. The UBC academic calendar and the UBC Academic Essentials are a good way to start exploring academic learning at UBC. Additionally, your faculty’s website will contain information about different concentrations, their requirements and future prospects, so it should be one of your primary resources. If you need guidance with course selection, check out the CLC’s blog post on picking courses!

It is okay to take the time to explore different options

UBC has a lot of opportunities and options for you to build your undergraduate studies beyond your concentration. Programs like Co-op, exchange, minors and directed studies are great ways for you to explore different interests and to figure out what you would like to do after graduation. If you are contemplating switching degree programs, applying for the Co-op program, or adding a minor and are worried about the extra time it could add to your degree, note that many UBC students take more than 4 years to graduate. One thing that comes back in my discussions with alumni is the regret of not pursuing co-op internships and other opportunities prior to graduation, so make sure to take advantage of all the opportunities being a student at UBC offers.

It is important to talk to people who can help you figure out what you’re doing

One important take-away from university is the importance and ability to network effectively which also applies to your undergraduate experience. Being a student at UBC gives you access to opportunities to meet and learn from professors that are leaders in their fields, post-graduate students that have been in your shoes recently and student advising offices to support you in every aspect of your studies. Do not hesitate to contact the program advisors of the programs you are interested in and chat with them about your interests and aspirations and ways to get the most of your university experience. Go to office hours and talk to professors about their day-to-day and figure out if that aligns with your career goals. Remember that the UBC motto is ‘Tuum Est’: your degree truly is yours so make sure you take advantage of all that it offers.

UBC has a lot of resources you can take advantage of to strengthen your academics and address many of your needs:

Degree Planning Support

Academic Support

 

I hope this post provided some informational tools you can keep in your toolbelt as you embark on or continue your own UBC journey.

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Reading Textbooks

By Learning Commons Web Team on August 31, 2022 |Tagged with:

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Video credit: Reading Textbooks – posted by UBC Learn on YouTube
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Video credit: Reading Textbooks – posted by UBC Learn on YouTube
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Websites & Videos

Articles & Websites

Active Reading (Website, Dartmouth)

A useful resource that summarizes several textbook reading techniques including the SQ3R method, Read and Write, and the Pivotal Words method.

UBC Mindmapping Resources (Website, UBC Wiki)

The UBC Wiki describes what mind maps are, their learning benefits, and how they can be used in your study strategy.

Active Reading Strategies (Website, Princeton University)

Princeton University outlines tips to help you remember and analyze what you read in your textbooks.

Videos

Do You Actually Need to Read Your Textbooks (YouTube, College Info Geek)

This informational video covers the importance of reading assignments, how to balance readings from multiple courses, and how to evaluate reading sources.

How to Read an Academic Paper (YouTube, UBC iSchool)

The UBC iSchool describes the difference in reading an academic paper compared to a textbook and the best strategy to absorb the most information from a paper in this video.

Related Resource Guides

Academic and Professional Writing Resources (Website, CWSC)

From writing guides to annotated abstracts, check out all the online writing resources that UBC Library has to offer on this website.

Chapman Learning Commons Resources

Related Toolkits

Taking Notes

Notes are another inescapable part of getting a university education. We might not be able to make them fun, but we can offer tips on how to make them useful.

Managing Your Time

Wasting a lot of time online? Pulling too many all-nighters? Getting better at managing your time is easier than you think!

Thinking Critically

You can’t get the most out of university without learning to think critically. It isn’t easy, but with our handy guide, we’ll have you thinking up a storm in no time!

Your Turn

Try reading your textbook out loud, reading standing up or reading after doing exercise.

Did you find any or all of these methods effective for improving your attention?

Drop your comments below to tell us what you think!

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Recording 101

By Learning Commons Web Team on August 30, 2022 |Tagged with:

Photo by Jonathan Velasquez on Unsplash
Orientation

This guide provides information on podcasting, recording, editing, scripting, performing, copyright, and hosting. It includes why to do a podcast, how to plan it, where to get started and what programs to use.

Why Record or Podcast?
  • Reach a new audience/the public
  • Re-purpose research
  • It’s satisfying and fun to make stuff
  • Provides a creative outlet
Planning

Planning Guide

Plan It! UBC DIY Media Guide — View the image below to get ideas for approaches, resources and tools to create your next multimedia project

Scripting

Writing for the ear

  • Review the difference between reporting on Print vs Radio
  • Look to communicate one thought per sentence
    • A sentence shouldn’t more than a breath
  • Be concise
  • Use active verbs
  • Say what you mean
    • No jargon. Attention to technical terms and acronyms
  • Add telling details where possible. What reveals new things to your audience?
  • Do a Mouth Edit
    • Read through your script out loud first to find tongue twisters or hard to pronounce words
  • Formatting
    • Spell out numbers and abbreviations. Put each sentence on its own line and double space

Further reading

Recording

Tips for when you are recording in the field

  • Get as close to the thing you’re hoping to record as you can
  • Know the space (if you are not recording in the UBC Library DIY Media Studio)
    • Consider the room size, number of participants & ambient noise
    • WIND IS THE WORST – If you are recording on a windy day, consider recording inside
  • Use the appropriate equipment
    • Check equipment beforehand, especially batteries, cables & storage
  • Test your levels
    • Bring headphones. They are your audio superhero cape
  • Recording in WAV gives you more flexibility and fidelity than MP3
  • Noise reduction can only do so much
    • Chrome MusicLab Spectogram– This resource will show you the tonal range of different sounds and hense how difficult it can be to noise reduce
  • Remember room tone – Most rooms/spaces have some background noise. Consider recording a minute of silence in any room you are recording in. You can use this as background noise if you end up recording more elsewhere. This will help to keep listeners in the same “space”

Vocal tips

  • Be conversational
  • Imagine speaking to a friend who laughs at your jokes
  • Speak as though you’re speaking across a dinner table (unless you’re doing ASMR)
  • Make sure your script is ready. Rehearse!
  • Posture is important. Sit up straight or stand
  • Take deep breaths and pause between sentences

Microphone talk

UBC resources

Further reading

Editing

Program recommendations

  • Audacity
    • PRO
      • Free
      • Cross-platform and open source
      • Relatively straight-forward to use
      • Lots of help online
    • CON
      • Lossy – This means it doesn’t automatically save versions as you edit. If you do not save a version, you can lose it
      • The program can be glitchy- Always remember to save an up to date copy of your work in case you need to restart the program
  • Adobe Audition
    • Free for UBC faculty and staff, installed on all UBC Library Mac computers
  • Hindenburg is another popular favourite

Further reading

Hosting & Promoting

Hosting your content

All audio must be hosted on the internet in order to promote it.

  • File storage:
    • Libsyn is the best established. Plans range from $5 to $50 a month to upload new content.
    • Soundcloud free under 3 hours of content
    • Anchor Free
    • Faculty and Staff: Ask your IT dept if they will host file storage.
  • Partner with a media organization

Promote your podcast or blog

  • Blogs work well for RSS & info pages
  • Submit to podcast directories
  • Find your audience tips
    • Use social media
    • Incorporate audience interactions
    • Recorded Segments, inside jokes, use your personality
    • Think: How can you partner with other podcasts in your space?
Copyright & Privacy

Copyright basics

Copyright is significant for the content you create and the content you reuse. Do not reuse content without reviewing the copyright permissions and licences.

  • UBC Copyright office – Can help to determine rights and uses for content you create and content you would like to use
  • Your copyrighted works – When you create something, you are the copyright holder of that work. Consider how you would like it to be shared
  • Other people’s copyrights – Review other’s copyright before you use it in your content. Know the permissions process
  • Fair dealing / fair use – Information on the laws regarding copyright use
  • LFSLC’s copyright tutorial – A fun, short tutorial on copyright, laws, rules and fair use

Creative Commons

  • Licenses – These licenses determine content that can be reused or shared and what level of attribution is needed.
    • Consider the following questions why assigning a licence to your own work or review others’ licence agreements.
      • Allow commercial uses?
      • Allow modifications? Yes, Yes but, No
      • Attribution is always required
  • Licenses are irrevocable

Creative Commons Resources

For content ( music, vocals etc) that you can reuse and share (sometimes with attribution)

Privacy

Respect the privacy and viewpoint of those you interview and record.

  • Oral consent to record individuals is okay but make sure to get it on tape
  • Written consent is better
  • The law does not address ethical concerns that may arise
  • Work to respect people’s wishes when recording. How would they like to be represented
Resources

Microphones and Recording Equipment

Books on Podcasting

Training Websites

Podcast Listening Recommendations

Content Attribution & Thanks

This content is used with permission and many thanks to Ducan McHugh, Digital & Instructional Media Producer for the Faculty of Land and Food Systems.

This page is drawn from this resource: http://bit.ly/UBCpodcast
See slides of this content: http://bit.ly/UBCpodcast2

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Writing

By Learning Commons Web Team on August 30, 2022 |Tagged with:

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Video credit: Writing – posted by UBC Learn on YouTube
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Websites & Videos

Articles & Websites

UBC Library: Evaluating and Citing Resources (Webpage, UBC Library)

UBC Library: Academic Integrity and Plagiarism (Webpage, UBC Library)

Purdue Online Writing Lab: Creating an Essay Outline (Webpage, Purdue University)

University of Ottawa Writing Centre (Webpage, University of Ottawa)

Assignment Calculators (Webpage, UBC Library)

Videos

Do You Actually Need to Read Your Textbooks (YouTube, College Info Geek)

This informational video covers the importance of reading assignments, how to balance readings from multiple courses, and how to evaluate reading sources.

How to Read an Academic Paper (YouTube, UBC iSchool)

The UBC iSchool describes the difference in reading an academic paper compared to a textbook and the best strategy to absorb the most information from a paper in this video.

Related Resources Guides

Academic and Professional Writing Resources (Website, CWSC)

From writing guides to annotated abstracts, check out all the online writing resources that UBC Library has to offer on this website.

Chapman Learning Commons Resources

Related Toolkits

Taking Notes

Notes are another inescapable part of getting a university education. We might not be able to make them fun, but we can offer tips on how to make them useful.

Managing Your Time

Wasting a lot of time online? Pulling too many all-nighters? Getting better at managing your time is easier than you think!

Thinking Critically

You can’t get the most out of university without learning to think critically. It isn’t easy, but with our handy guide, we’ll have you thinking up a storm in no time!

Your Turn

Try reading your textbook out loud, reading standing up or reading after doing exercise.

Did you find any or all of these methods effective for improving your attention?

Drop your comments below to tell us what you think!

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Library Research

By Learning Commons Web Team on August 29, 2022 |Tagged with:

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Video credit: Writing – posted by UBC Learn on YouTube
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Websites & Videos

Articles & Websites

AskAway (Website, BC ELN)

Use the chat function to connect directly with a librarian to receive help on your research questions or questions you may have about searching databases.

AskUS (Resource, UBC Library)

Quickly access different services, such as reporting a problem within a library, finding a specialist for the resources you’re looking for, general questions, etc.

How to Cite (Resource, UBC Library)

The purpose of this guide is to help you identify the basic elements of a citation for some common types of materials.

Hours and Locations (Website, UBC Library)

View all of the UBC library locations along with the hours of each branch.

Assignment Calculators (Resource, UBC Library)

The Assignment Calculators divide research and writing projects into manageable steps to help students plan assignment completion based on due dates.

Chapman Learning Commons Resources

Related Toolkits

Thinking Critically

You can’t get the most out of university without learning to think critically. It isn’t easy, but with our handy guide, we’ll have you thinking up a storm in no time!

Writing

As a university student, you’ll probably write a lot of papers. We’ve partnered with the UBC Library to bring you tools to help take the headaches out of writing.

Your Turn

Go talk to a librarian at the beginning of a research paper or project this semester. Let us know if it helps!

Tell us in the space below.

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Preparing for Exams

By Learning Commons Web Team on August 29, 2022 |Tagged with:

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Websites

UBC Wellness Centre: Stress Less for Exam Success (Resources, UBC)

Browse a range of free UBC resources, including study tips, writing strategies, citation guides, getting one-on-one help, finding study spaces, and how to deal with a situation impacting your studies.

University of Guelph: Multiple Choice Exams (Resources, University of Guelph)

Learn tips and tricks on how to study for and do your best on multiple choice exams through the University of Guelph’s resources.

Videos

How to Get Your Brain to Focus (Chris Bailey, YouTube)

In this video Chris Bailey, author of the recent book Hyperfocus, talks about how our ability to focus is the key to productivity, creativity, and living a meaningful life.

How I Use My Calendar Efficiently (College Info Geek, YouTube)

Learn how to enhance your Google Calendar use and what other apps you can use simultaneously to improve your time management and organizational skills.

Chapman Learning Commons Resources

Related Toolkits

Managing Your Time 

Struggling with managing your time or just want to develop a more efficient schedule? Check out our toolkit to learn how to create a schedule that works for you.

Online Exams

Learn more about taking exams online and what kind of support is available to you before beginning your virtual exams.

Reading Textbooks

One thing can’t be avoided at UBC: reading, and lots of it. Find out how to read effectively while also getting through piles of material.

Taking Notes

Notes are another inescapable part of getting a university education. We might not be able to make them fun, but we can offer tips on how to make them useful.

Related Articles & Videos

The Pomodoro Technique: Study More Efficiently, Take More Breaks

The Pomodoro technique is used by many students to structure their study times with set study breaks in order to avoid burnout while preparing for exams.

Exam Preparation Resources

Discover different resources in this compilation document, which focuses on how to prepare for an exam, how to manage stress, and how to prepare specifically for an online exam.

Exam Strategies

This tutorial will give you advice on studying for exams, including taking an inventory of your notes and preparing a five-day study plan.

Your Turn

Try studying for a test this term in short focused study sessions a few times a day rather than in long cramming sessions.

Give us your feedback below on which method works better for you.

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Online Teaching Support

By Learning Commons Web Team on August 26, 2022 |Tagged with:

Online Support

Supporting students online is complex. The resources in this guide have been developed from the student perspective, with students as co-creators, and with the whole student in mind. They are meant to supplement those supporting and teaching students in an online context.

Reflections and Suggestions on Online Learning **Written By Students**

We (Minori, Harvey, Rahul, Celia, and Kartik) are 5 assistants at the Chapman Learning Commons. Based on our previous experiences learning in-person and online, we have compiled a few pointers from the student perspective that we think will aid staff and faculty as they try to construct their online learning environment.  

1. What concerns do students have when learning online?

Many students struggle with the limited accessibility and flexibility that is offered to them in the online learning environment, as there are many barriers to their learning experience that they feel go unaddressed by some course design elements and instructors. Here are some common concerns:

  • Limited internet bandwidth/connection and device capability can restrict some students from participating in certain course content.
  • Living in different time zones can make it difficult to attend synchronous lectures and would be better supported with recordings of such lectures.
  • Courses that offer a limited variety of learning materials in courses can be difficult for students (e.g. text-intensive courses with no verbal lectures).
  • When transitioning to the online medium, examinations should be cognizant of the need for partial grading of notes/drafts, or the need for extra exam time for students to fully participate.
  • Many students are facing new or different time commitments due to the rapid transition to online learning, which prevents them from participating to their former capacity.
  • Screen fatigue can be a genuine concern for many individuals who are not used to sitting in front of a digital screen for hours on end. Instructors may find it beneficial to record their lectures in a podcast form while simultaneously adding the slides as a supplement to students’ learning.
  • A 10 hour/week course commitment looks different in-person (with three hours of lectures) and online (sometimes without lectures). Keeping in mind how students may take more time to engage with materials in an online environment, and making adjustments accordingly can help students succeed.

So what can be done? Recognizing the limitations and struggles that students face in the online learning environment and adjusting course achievement expectations, offering flexible grading rubrics and lecture attendance options, and providing more opportunities for students to participate or make up for lost marks would help address many of these concerns.

 2. What are a few things instructors should remember when designing online learning?

Online learning is demanding on students’ time management and self-learning abilities. here lacking sufficient support and means to communicate, students could be stuck and stressed more easily. Consider adopting measures tailored to online learning into course design to help students better handle both course material and stress level.  Based on my own experience learning online, I personally recommend focusing on these three areas to make adjustments:

Lecture, slides & notes:

  • Prerecord lectures to make them available through the term.
  • Post lecture notes before class, and if possible,  write notes with the students (just like a regular lecture) during lectures / recordings so that students can follow every step,  especially for notes-driven courses including Maths, Accounting etc.
  • If lecturing, link the video instead of playing it in the recording to make sure students can find the resource and study further at their own pace. Ideally, provide links to every resource you mentioned in the lecture and make sure resources are separate from the body of a lecture so that students can more easily access key materials.
  • Please keep in mind that the visual and audio quality of your lectures can be detrimental to a student’s success. It can be a difficult lecture for students when they have to sit through a muffled delivery. Luckily, UBC Studios’ DIY spaces (One-Button Studio and Lightboard Studio) are currently available to faculty. Their spaces already come equipped with the basic video equipment that you will need. You can start booking today! http://ubcstudios.ubc.ca/do-it-yourself/
  • UBC Studios is also coming out with video resources to guide faculty and staff on their journey.
  • Even if you already have an online course, look into resources and adapt according to this current context and situation- as you may need to change your course design to be more optimal.

Communication & Feedback:

  • Welcome honest feedback by offering opportunities for anonymous feedback on course design and delivery, especially during first weeks and midterm.
  • Utilize breakout rooms, discussion groups etc. to set up spaces for your students to connect with each other.  Implement a structure immediately after lecture if possible as it may help with group organization, for example, let students stay behind in the lecture room to have discussions in breakout rooms if they’d like to connect. If you need to close the lecture to complete the recording, ask a TA or student representative to hold the session.
  • Give flexibility in discussion groups to encourage students to share any ideas, to promote genuine contribution for purposes beyond participation marks. Consider flexible forms of assessment for discussion groups and course participation.
  • Hold virtual office hours (for example, using BB Collaborate Ultra) and welcome students to drop quick questions and chat  instead of communicating everything over email. Students can see email as a formal communication form and it may be easier for them to break down the barrier of formality.  This also helps instructors and students to get closer and know each other better.
  • Have some communication format with other instructors in your department (i.e. Slack) so that students taking different sessions are about the same page hence easier to discuss with each other. Contact Learning Tech Rovers for more support. Link to LTR page: https://ctlt.ubc.ca/tag/ltr/

Assignments, exams & grading:

  • Consider more flexible grading schemes in light of the stress of this situation to help students feel more secure, for example, to offer students the option to move the weight of their grade from midterms to the final, and to offer a number of lower-stakes assignments with different grading weights in addition to 1-2 heavy exams.
  • Consider setting a range of assignments to capture different learning preferences and having extra/bonus assignment(s) to make assignments more low-stakes and help students who fell behind at the beginning of the course due to switching to online learning.
  • Consider a livestream Q/A about debriefing midterms and assignments; discuss your grading process and answers to questions. This can be helpful with an exam-intensive class.
  • Be transparent about which topics are important and share the format of exams to help students not be surprised when the exam shows up, so they know what to expect and feel more comfortable. Provide practice exams/quizzes on Canvas for students to practice and troubleshoot. Students can self-enroll to practice exams here: https://canvas.ubc.ca/enroll/C7TG94
  • For maths-heavy courses, make sure to adjust question format or exam duration for online exams as it’s a lot harder and time consuming to type in formulas and steps to get partial marks.

What’s more, students could also benefit from you utilizing and being creative with technologies available to you, for example, possibly 3D videos for field courses or more broad quiz questions, adding more visual appeals etc.

 3. What helps students engage with content online (both synchronously and asynchronously)?

As a student, my friends and I can have trouble staying engaged in lectures when learning online. Therefore, it is very important for professors to adopt teaching methods which would encourage participation from students.

  • A very interactive technique can be to split the screen in half where the professor is recording themselves speaking and, on the other half, they write notes simultaneously.
  • Also, professors can create a Google Doc where they type out notes for all students to access. Students can contribute to this Google Doc as well in a collective note-taking exercise.
  • Another very common approach can be to preformat PowerPoint slides to be blank, where professors can then draw or write on during class. This feature can be helpful for courses which have a lot of formulae or math, as typing out formulae can be extremely tedious. Drawing tables or mind maps on blank slides can be more interactive for students.  
  • Furthermore, welcoming students to stay in breakout rooms or the main room after the lecture is over, encourages classmates to engage with each other.
  • When it comes to asynchronous learning, creating a discussion platform such as Piazza or Canvas is a great way for classmates to ask questions and discuss topics. Professors cannot be available all the time, therefore, these platforms can allow students to solve each other’s questions.

We hope that these tips have helped guide you in constructing your new curriculum. We know that it may be challenging to try and address all of our needs but we do appreciate all of the accommodations that UBC’s staff and faculty are willing to give. While we cannot speak on the behalf of all students, we think that our advice is grounded in solid experiences and that many individuals can relate to our sentiments.

Learning Commons Resources to Share With Students

These resources are for Instructors, Faculty, and Staff to share with students. Please take and use these resources directly!

Canvas Module, Student Learning and Wellbeing

This module created to support learning and wellbeing for UBC students. The content of this resource was chosen by students, and the topics included are: academic support, library resources, and health & wellbeing. Embedding this as an option module in Canvas is an easy way to provide students with support and resources available to help them succeed and thrive in their academic lives.

[Note: all student resources below are embedded in the above module!]


Get Students Help

Assistance with learning technology (such as Canvas, Collaborate Ultra, or Zoom) as well as questions about learning or academic support at UBC. Our friendly Chapman Learning Commons Assistants provide support over the phone and email.

Learning Skills Workshops

The Chapman Learning Commons offers learning skills workshops about adjusting to learning online. Learn how to plan your space, manage your time, or plan a presentation. Register to receive the link for attending online.

Online Learners’ Resource Guide

Digital classroom making your head spin? Check out these great tools and resources for taking distance courses and see advice about adjusting to learning online other students like you.

Practice Taking Exams Online

Self-enroll in the CLC’s Online Exam Practice Course to practice taking different types of online assignments and exams. Familiarize yourself with Proctorio, Lockdown Browser, Webwork, and more.

Links For Students

Keep Learning

Provides you with resources to prepare for online learning including getting set up, self-care, and technology tips.

Wellness Centre Online

Access up-to-date health education and information, learn more about health-related resources on and off campus, access tips and strategies for your wellbeing as a student, and hear from the experiences of your peers.

Links for Instructors

Keep Teaching

The Keep Teaching website supports faculty in developing their own strategies to continue to meet the needs of their courses online, if there are disruptions in on-campus teaching and learning. Being prepared to offer many aspects of your face-to-face or blended courses online is an important part of planning for events that may interrupt normal campus operations.

Canvas UBCV Library Skills

A pilot of the ALT Project titled Creating Flexible Online Learning Modules to Support Information Literacy Instruction. This is a package of two modules on exploring sources and the basics of finding sources through the UBC Vancouver Library. 

CTLT Online Teaching Program

This program is designed to help you adapt your course for the online environment and prepare you to teach online. The program consists of a course with self-paced modules in Canvas, online workshops with experiential learning opportunities, and one-on-one consultation support with an educational consultant.

Wellbeing in Teaching and Learning Environments

Research shows that supporting wellbeing in learning environments is foundational to our students achieving deeper learning and academic success. On the Wellbeing in Teaching & Learning Environments website, there is information about faculty profiles,  past projects, resources, and toolkits to embed practices in your own classroom.

Green Folder

Everyone plays an important role in supporting student mental health and wellbeing.  The Green folder is a quick guide for faculty and staff to know what to look for, say, and do when having a supportive conversation with a student.

Reading

Mcphee, Siobhán & Lyon, Katherine & Briseno-Garzon, Adriana & Varao-Sousa, Trish & Moghtader, Bruce. (2020). Student voices on remote education in the COVID-19 era: Recommendations for fall based on student self-reported data. 10.13140/RG.2.2.28175.20641.

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/343349710_Student_voices_on_remote_education_in_the_COVID-19_era_Recommendations_for_fall_based_on_student_self-reported_data

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Workshops

By Learning Commons Web Team on August 26, 2022 |Tagged with:

Irving K Barber Learning Center
If you’re a student, check out our current events and workshops here!

The Chapman Learning Commons offers a series of workshops geared to support students in cultivating essential academic skills in the online learning environment.

Our team of Chapman Learning Commons Assistants currently offer four workshops; read more about them below. The workshops are 45 minutes long, but may be adaptable with advance notice.

Requesting a Workshop

If you would like to arrange for us to present a workshop in your class, please contact the CLC staff at clc.staff@ubc.ca. We will do our best to accommodate all workshop requests. For prescheduled workshop offerings that are open for all students to attend, see here.

How to Focus

Change the way you think about focus. You’ll learn the benefits of becoming more focused, which parts of your life are damaging your focus, and what you can do to increase your ability to focus.

Balancing Life and Learning: Self-Care and Productivity

We’ll consider how to make space for your personal wellbeing when working and studying from home. Drawing from advice and experiences of CLC Assistants, you will develop approaches to working remotely that keep your wellbeing in mind and consider how your unique context might impact your work-life balance. You’ll leave with resources to support your success.

Group Presentations

As students learning and connecting online, there is a lot to consider—especially when working with others. You will leave this workshop with knowledge on how to prepare and give effective group presentations online, from working with each other to engaging a class with technology.

Time Management Skills

Time management is an essential skill for academic success and wellbeing in university! In this session, you will practice time management techniques for scheduling your time, setting goals, and more. You will learn how to separate your “workspace” from your “home space”, mitigate distractions, and learn more tips on time management to set you up for success!

Communication Skills

As online learners, we constantly communicate with others using a variety of platforms. Which platforms are best suited to different types of communication? How might you engage effectively online with a professor, a classmate, or a colleague? This session helps you build your communication confidence by considering best practices and recommendations when communicating online, using a variety of methods- from email, to instant messaging, to video chat.

Finding Off-Campus Housing: A Workshop In Residence

Searching for housing can be very stressful, especially if you do not know anything about the house-hunting process in Vancouver. This workshop will provide you with the fundamental knowledge on how to decide who to live with, evaluate housing postings, engage in safe house tours, and know your rights as a renter!

Sleep and Academics

Cultivating healthy sleep habits contributes to academic success. This workshop invites you to reflect on your feelings and habits related to sleep and to explore the relationship between sleep and work. Through guided activities and reflection, you will explore ways to optimize your sleep habits and in turn, nurture your wellbeing- as well as your academic and professional success!

Secrets of Campus Resources

Perhaps you’re entering your first year at UBC, or you are coming to campus for the first time! All are welcome to attend this orientation session, where you’ll connect with peers and learn how to access various resources to support your success as a student.

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Contact Us

By Learning Commons Web Tam on August 26, 2022 |Tagged with:

Alex Kuskowski

Learning Services Librarian
Chapman Learning Commons
alex.kuskowski@ubc.ca
Link to Biography

Emma MacFarlane

Learning Commons Coordinator
Chapman Learning Commons
emma.macfarlane@ubc.ca
Link to Biography

Daniel Murphy

Program Assistant
Chapman Learning Commons
daniel.murphy@ubc.ca
Link to Biography

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Chapman Learning Commons: Approach to Learning 

By Learning Commons Web Team on August 26, 2022 |Tagged with:

The Learning Commons’ Ethos: Peer-Peer Learning Support

The Chapman Learning Commons (CLC) is a central hub on campus that provides access to advanced technologies, collaborative work areas, workshop space and learning support. We strive to enrich academic support and enhance the experience of all UBC students, with an emphasis on the first-year undergraduate experience. Our learning support services and resources emphasize the acquisition and application of learning skills, which help students become oriented to and succeed in university learning.

We emphasize a learner- and student-centred approach to services, with peer-led, student-driven initiatives and shared-decision making. We employ a peer-peer service model at our CLC Help Desk and in the creation and implementation of our online resources. Our friendly team of CLC student Assistants work on the level 3 Help Desk in the Irving K. Barber Learning Centre and assist users with technology, loan out equipment and help students connect with key learning resources and services on campus. Peer leadership is a central tenet of our services, reciprocally benefiting our student staff and students who access our services: Peer-peer service models are evidenced to contribute to student academic success, persistence and retention, social connection, and professional development.


To read more about the research behind our peer-peer service model, see the following articles [links to external site]:
Mitchell, J. & Bell, M. (2012). Common Ground: UBC Library and Student Development in the Chapman Learning Commons. 
Mitchell, J. & Soini, N. (2014). Student Involvement for Student Success: Student Staff in the Learning Commons. 

To read more about our program scope and impact, see [download PDF]:

Get Involved

We invite faculty to participate in the Profs-in-Commons program, a project that seeks to increase meaningful engagement between students and professors outside of the classroom, by hosting office hours in the Learning Lounge on Level 3 of the Irving K. Barber Learning Centre. The office hours take place alongside other Peer Academic Coaching support programs and the Centre for Writing and Scholarly Communication.

For more information or to become involved, reach out to Alex Kuskowski, Learning Services Librarian at alex.kuskowski@ubc.ca.

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Academic Integrity & Faculty Resources

By Learning Commons Web Team on August 26, 2022 |Tagged with:


Background and Goals

This resource is a part of the TLEF-funded project, “Our Cheating Hearts?: Changing the Conversation through Academic Integrity Curriculum in First-Year Programs,” led by Dr. Laurie McNeill (FYP/ENGL), that began in the fall of 2017.  The project has been guided by the following goals:

  1. To shift from a focus on academic misconduct to academic integrity, and changing our language to suit;
  2. To identify the particular areas of ethical research that students find most challenging in first-year writing courses; and
  3. To developing explicit integrity curriculum–what we have called ‘pedagogies of integrity‘ in our courses that extended current course content.

In the past year, faculty members on the project’s original working group have worked to develop the materials you see here on this site. As we’re still in evaluation for this project, we welcome (and will likely ask for!) your feedback on your experiences in implementing this curriculum.

How You Can Use these Resources
Some rights reserved Permission is granted to copy, distribute and/or modify this document according to the terms in Creative Commons License, Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0. The full text of this license may be found here: CC by-nc-sa 3.0

All of the resources are under Creative Commons License, Attribution-Non-Commercial-ShareAlike 3.0.

These materials were designed for you to adopt and adapt. In the spirit of academic integrity, we would appreciate that you acknowledge the original contributors in some way (e.g., this exercise has been adapted from XXXX).

Course Design and Guiding Questions

In this section, we provide questions you can use as you design your course, to think about when academic integrity should be part of the conversation, how it should be framed, and why it will matter to students.

Classroom Practices of Academic Integrity

  • Where and when in your course do you talk about the expectations for ethical research? Are there times for students to ask questions and confirm their understanding of these expectations?
  • What language or terminology do you use when you talk about ethical research
  • At what points in your course do you anticipate students having questions about ethical research practices? How could the course make explicit space for such questions throughout the semester, so that students know it’s OK not to know and to ask?
  • How do you set out expectations about academic integrity in the context of your assignments, when students will be engaging in their own research practices? How do you imagine students’ understanding of these expectations? What resources (e.g., links to citation &/or library sites) do you provide to help them?
  • Are there certain situations in your course that might create particular challenges for students in understanding the expectations of ethical research practices and how to meet them (e.g., a group project, an online quiz)? How might you facilitate conversations about academic integrity in these situations to set expectations and brainstorm ways to meet them?

Promoting Disciplinary and Departmental Practices of Academic Integrity

  • Does your department have its own policy, statement, resource page (etc.) about academic integrity? How does your course connect explicitly to such materials
  • What does academic integrity look like in the discipline(s) of your department or faculty? In other words, what do researchers in this/these fields have to consider as part of their particular research ethics (e.g., research on human subjects, collaborations with community partners, etc.)?
  • What does academic integrity look like in the classrooms of your department/Faculty? In other words, what teaching and learning activities will ask students, in the context of your discipline(s), to apply their understanding of ethical research, e.g, writing papers, doing group projects, sitting exams, submitting online work . . .?

Promoting Conceptual Understandings of Academic Integrity: (More) Questions for Class Discussion

  • What is the “consequence of error” for researchers in your discipline(s), if they do not uphold the expectations of ethical research? What harms might be done, and to whom?
  • What harms are done by student violations of academic integrity, in your course, in your department/Faculty, and at the university as a whole? To whom?

Questions developed by Dr. Laurie McNeill

Sample Academic Integrity Statements, Outcomes, and Criteria

The following are examples of how to introduce and reinforce academic integrity as a core value of your course and the scholarly community more broadly, and how to invite students to take up ethical research practices (vs. how to avoid cheating).

Sample Learning Outcomes

Author: Dr. Moberley Luger

Learning Outcomes By the end of this course students will have a clear understanding of academic integrity. That is, as they undertake the process of creating new knowledge, they will know how to cite sources honestly, ethically, and transparently. They will clearly understand and acknowledge the ideas that are theirs and not theirs, and make that difference clear to their readers. Students will contribute to the larger research community as they create connections among researchers and themselves, and protect the ideas of others and of ourselves.

For course objectives and learning outcomes, another option is to conduct the definition exercise with students and create that learning objective together as a class definition

Sample Evaluation Criteria – Academic Integrity

Author: Dr. Laurie McNeill

  • [The submitted work] Clearly and accurately represents and cites its sources in ways consistent with the ethnical production of knowledge and research; citations & Works Cited are in correct [MLA, APA, etc.] style
  • Academic integrity: use of citation, links, and/or reporting expression to clearly attribute ideas; citations & Works Cited are in correct MLA style; images and other media are captioned / properly attributed.

Sample Syllabus Statement on Academic Integrity

Author: Dr. Laurie McNeill

Syllabus Statement on Academic Integrity: We – me, [ASRW/CAP/Arts One], UBC and the scholarly community at large – share an understanding of the ethical ways that we use to produce knowledge. A core practice of this shared value of academic integrity is that we acknowledge the contributions of others to our own work, but it also means we produce our own contributions that add to the scholarly conversation: we don’t buy or copy papers or exams, or have someone else edit them. We also don’t falsify data or sources, or hand in the same work in more than one course.

Because it is so important that research be done ethically, I expect [name of course] students to meet these expectations. Any instance of cheating or taking credit for someone else’s work, whether intentionally or unintentionally, can and often will result in at minimum a grade of zero for the assignment, and these cases will be reported to the First-Year Programs Chair, and the Faculty of Arts Associate Dean, Academic. See the UBC Calendar entries on “Academic Honesty,” “Academic Misconduct,” and “Disciplinary Measures,” and check out the Student Declaration and Responsibility. See “Tips for Avoiding Plagiarism” from the Chapman Learning Commons, and bookmark the OWL website for how to use MLA citation style.

Activities

In this section, you will find examples of teaching and learning activities our instructors have developed that will enable you to engage students in learning about and applying the principles and practices of academic integrity. Some activities introduce the concept of ethical research more broadly, while others focus on specific practices of academic integrity, such as paraphrasing, that our instructors have noted that students find particularly challenging.

“Introduction to Academic Integrity” Canvas Module

The “Introduction to Academic Integrity” Canvas module discusses academic integrity in the context of why it matters — as a core element of how we as scholars and professionals do our work (and live our professional lives) at UBC and beyond. The module features 4 videos with UBC faculty, librarians, and students (see 1 example below), as well as pre- and post-reflection questions for students, and takes no more than 30 minutes to complete. Once they submit their responses, students can download a certificate of completion.

The module is open to all UBC students, and all instructors can use it in their courses by sharing the link with their classes. (Instructors can review the module by enrolling in the course.)

Use this direct link: https://canvas.ubc.ca/enroll/8NTBXX

Handouts

Our instructors have developed introductory resources that help students apply the principles and practices of academic integrity in their own work.

Question about the resources?

If you have questions, feedback, or suggestions about our materials or the Cheating Hearts project, please contact Dr. Laurie McNeill.

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Board of Thoughts

By Learning Commons Web Team on August 26, 2022 |Tagged with:

Looking for a place to express your thoughts and share advice with your UBC peers? Want to check out learning tips and tricks from other students? Use the board below!

Made with Padlet

Add your responses by clicking the ‘+’ below each question, writing your comment, and clicking ‘Submit’.

What is the Board of Thoughts and how do I participate?

The Board of Thoughts is an interactive community board. There a several questions posted on this Padlet. You can choose which ones you would like to answer. You can come back and add new answers. Also, you can share your name or stay anonymous. With Padlet, you can add photos, links and even gifs. We would love to hear your opinions and experiences, and so will others!

Be mindful that people of different backgrounds will be reading your answers. We will not approve inappropriate or disrespectful responses.

Thank you for using your time to initiate thoughtful conversations and build a stronger community at UBC!

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Profs in Commons

By Learning Commons Web Team on August 26, 2022 |Tagged with:

Since 2016, the Chapman Learning Commons has hosted Profs in Commons, embedding professors’ office hours in the Learning Lounge on level 3 of the Irving K. Barber Learning Centre. Regardless of the classes they are teaching, our Profs-in-Commons welcome students from any discipline to stop by!

For questions about the Profs in Commons program, please contact Alex Kuskowski (Learning Services Librarian).

Office Hours

Learning Lounge | Level 3 | IKBLC

Winter Term 2 | January 5, 2026 – April 10, 2026

  • 09:00
  • 09:30
  • 10:00
  • 10:30
  • 11:00
  • 11:30
  • 12:00
  • 12:30
  • 13:00
  • 13:30
  • 14:00
  • 14:30
  • 15:00
  • 15:30
  • 16:00
  • 16:30
  • 17:00
  • 17:30
  • 18:00
  • 18:30
  • Monday
  • Tuesday
    • Dr. Neil Armitage
    • Dr. Chelsea Freeborn
    • Dr. Kathy Greaves
    • Wednesday
      • Dr. Kathy Greaves
      • Thursday
        • Dr. Neil Armitage
        • Dr. Chelsea Freeborn
        • Friday

            • Meet some of the Profs!

            Dr. Chelsea Freeborn

            I am a Lecturer in the Family Studies program, which is housed in the Department of Sociology. I am a fairly recent arrival to Vancouver and UBC, having lived and worked previously in Edmonton. It is there I received a PhD in Human Ecology (Child, Youth and Family Science) from the University of Alberta. I also instructed for a number of years in Edmonton at MacEwan University in the Bachelor of Early Childhood Curriculum Studies program (communication and family streams). I’m very inspired to connect with students in a meaningful way that supports their success and deeper understanding of courses and their material. When not working, I enjoy listening to music (ideally outdoors), going for nature walks, and spending time with the important humans and animals in my life (including two labradoodles). 

            Dr. Kathy Greaves

            I am a Lecturer in the Family Studies minor which is part of the Department of Sociology. This year, I am teaching FMST 210: Family Context of Human Development and FMST 316: Human Sexuality. I received my PhD in Human Development and Family Studies from Oregon State University (OSU) where I remained as an Instructor for 18 years. While at OSU, I typically taught introduction to families and human sexuality courses with enrollments from 400-600, resulting in an estimated 45,000 students who took my courses. Cultivating personal growth in students is the central tenet to my teaching. I hope that their experiences in my courses help them to have a better understanding of themselves as individuals as well as facilitate successful and satisfying intimate and familial relationships.

            Dr. Neil Armitage

            After dropping out of two universities in the space of three years, both in the first year, got the message that engineering and university was probably not for me. It was with some anxiety then, not only my own, but of friends long graduated, and family, when I stopped working to return to university a decade later. My main concern this time, was not struggling to see myself as an engineer, but would I be able to study Sociology in Swedish. I had lived in the Sweden for five years and achieved the language proficiency to attend university, and I was determined not to drop out again. In my first year I would start reading textbooks a week before the start of classes. The readings were tough. However, I recalled all the times I had overcome similar steps in learning Swedish. In my first year I cared about only one grade – pass. I asked professors questions both inside and outside of class, I made friends to study and play with, and my grades improved and the rest is history so to speak. Third time lucky! I returned to the UK for graduate school where I researched youth transitions, the ways in which young people make their way from education to work, or from education to work and back to education. It was something I already knew and had thought quite a bit about.

            Dr. Katja Thieme

            I have an M.A. in art history from Universität Leipzig, Germany, an M.A. in English from UBC, and a Ph.D. in English language studies from UBC. I have also studied at Carleton University in Ottawa.

            My research interests include genre theory, forms of public address in social and political movements in Canada, discourse analysis of research writing, as well as late nineteenth- and early twentieth-century Canadian literature.

            Dr. Dennis Foung

            I am a lecturer at the School of Journalism, Writing and Media (JWAM) and mainly teach WRDS 150B. I “enjoy” doing degrees and hold a number of academic qualifications in the fields of adult education, language education, language studies, human resource management and development, and data science.

            Prior to joining JWAM, I was a member of the Learning Analytics team at the UBC’s Centre for Teaching, Learning, and Technology. I also taught academic literacy for more than 15 years in Hong Kong and Canada. I have a keen interest in big data research.

            Dr. Laila Ferreira

            I am an Assistant Professor of Teaching in the School of Journalism, Writing, and Media (JWAM) with a particular focus on writing studies and the teaching of academic research, writing, and communication. I have participated in cross-campus initiatives related to the first-year experience, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), decolonizing and internationalizing the curriculum, and inclusive teaching and course design for a diverse student body.

            As a queer cis-gender woman and first-generation university graduate, I am a co-researcher on studies that address the learning experiences of students from historically, systemically, and persistently marginalized communities in the academic research and writing classroom. My current activities include a co-authored paper on the language of gender in research writing on facial recognition software and a project on establishing the characteristics of inclusive teaching of writing that promises pedagogical strategies and resources for the inclusive teaching of writing across all disciplines at UBC. I am also a creative writer and avid reader of fashion history and historical fiction.

            Dr. Jonathan Graves

            I teach intermediate and senior undergraduate courses here at the VSE, focusing on how we can use economic intuition, modelling, and data analysis to understand the world around us. My pedagogical research includes developing undergraduate researchers, experiential learning, community-engaged learning, and the scholarship of teaching and learning. My economic research areas include applied microeconomics, and industrial organization.

            Other Resources

            Map

            Stop by Profs-in-Commons to engage with TAs, student leaders, and professors outside the classroom setting to engage in interdisciplinary dialogue or to get learning support!

            The Profs-in-Commons’ host their office hours in the Learning Lounge, located on Level 3 of the Irving K. Barber Learning Centre.

            Profs-in-Commons’ University Experiences

            Interviews by CLC Assistants, 2019.

            Dr. Neil Armitage: After dropping out of two universities in the space of three years, both in the first year, got the message that engineering and university was probably not for me. It was with some anxiety then, not only my own, but of friends long graduated, and family, when I stopped working to return to university a decade later. My main concern this time, was not struggling to see myself as an engineer, but would I be able to study Sociology in Swedish. I had lived in the Sweden for five years and achieved the language proficiency to attend university, and I was determined not to drop out again. In my first year I would start reading textbooks a week before the start of classes. The readings were tough. However, I recalled all the times I had overcome similar steps in learning Swedish. In my first year I cared about only one grade - pass. I asked professors questions both inside and outside of class, I made friends to study and play with, and my grades improved and the rest is history so to speak. Third time lucky! I returned to the UK for graduate school where I researched youth transitions, the ways in which young people make their way from education to work, or from education to work and back to education. It was something I already knew and had thought quite a bit about. Dr. Steven Wolfman: I got lucky, sort of, in my undergraduate days. I rarely struggled. Unfortunately, the one course I really struggled in (thermodynamics) caused me to give up on physics rather than learn that struggling is OK. It wasn't until graduate school that I realized pushing through was the way to learn and to succeed. That culminated in my dissertation, which took me months of scheduled time, every day, getting just a little more done even when the whole task looked insurmountable. When I handed it in, I could hardly believe it was me, grinding away one word at a time, that had put that work together. Check Prof in Commons for more information.
            Dr. Pamela Kalas: One of the most common questions that I get from undergraduates at UBC is, "Did you always know that you wanted o be a biology instructor?”. Absolutely not. In high-school, I slowly discovered that math and physics were very tedious. My favorite classes were chemistry and philosophy, I somewhat enjoyed biology. So, how did I end up studying biology? I used the "book test” strategy described in Francis Crick's book. I made a list of my recent favorite books and found evolutionary biology, as the common theme. During undergrad, I really enjoyed molecular biology, genetics and, surprisingly, lab work. This led me to do a Master's in molecular developmental genetics lab and a PhD in genetics. Through several incredible strikes of luck, and no shame in persistently knocking on doors, I ended up an instructor right here at UBC. I still feel very much like a student, as my current field of work is not what I was formally trained in and I occassionally take classes relevant to my work (with assignments, midterms and finals) When | was an undergrad, | loved physics but found it challenging and ended up majoring in Biology. My first year prof, Dr. Al Slavin and | connected over social justice activism but | didnt grasp the physics content easly or intuitively. So | plucked up the courage to talk to Dr. Al Slavin and found him amazingly helpful. Even though it was a large class, he was happy to meet with me. He later told me that this was a very important part of his teaching direct connections with students. I've never forgotten him and some of the basic concepts Dr. Farah Shroff he taught | have kept in touch with Dr. Siavin over all hese years and consider him and his Profs-in-Commons' Spouse, Linda, dear fiends. | am so glad tha | was able to muster the courage to speak Fos : wih him. and that he responded so posiively. gy University Experiences

            Videos

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          Academic Advising

          By Learning Commons Web Team on August 25, 2022 |Tagged with:

          Why Should You See An Advisor?

          Academic advisors are planning geniuses! They can help you choose classes, plan your degree, suggest possible majors. They can also help you switch majors, switch majors again, and ensure you will graduate on time. Moreover, they guide you to obscure programs in your faculty, help make the transition for co-op or exchange easier, tell you about popular upper-level electives that require no prerequisites, and most importantly, check your credits to make sure you can graduate! Use the following resources to help you plan your first visit:

          Who is My Advisor?

          Please check with your respective advising office to ensure that their hours and services are up-to-date.

          Find Your Academic Advisor

          How to Prepare for an Appointment

          Be Informed! The more research you have done, the more beneficial your meeting will be. Visit the UBC Academic Calendar, and your faculty website for information on faculty and degree requirements, course descriptions, program options, restrictions, etc. Remember, there are no stupid questions, but we do recommend looking online for information about registration, programs, faculty requirements, and answers to other frequently asked questions.
          You can also download the Learning Commons’ Degree Planner to help track courses and calculate your credits. Print it out and bring it to your appointment as a good way of organizing information visually.

          When to See an Advisor

          You can see an advisor anytime of the year! However, you want to make sure that you make a point of seeing them before:

          • Going on exchange or participating in co-op
          • Declaring your major or program stream
          • Deciding to complete a minor
          • Registering in courses for your final term to ensure you meet the requirements for graduation
          • If you require Academic Concession (i.e. if you can’t write an exam)

          Related Links

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          Borrow Equipment

          By Learning Commons Web Team on August 22, 2022 |Tagged with:

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          Working in Groups

          By Learning Commons Web Team on August 19, 2022 |Tagged with:

          Learn
          OpenClose

          Learn

          View Infographic
          Video Transcript
          Reflect
          OpenClose

          Reflect

          Apply
          OpenClose

          Apply

          Explore
          OpenClose

          Explore

          Websites & Videos

          UBC: Group Work

          Group Process (Website, UBC)

          Not sure where to get started in your group work? This resource provides a beginner’s guide and different resources that will help you build your group work foundation.

          Resolving Conflict (Website, UBC)

          Conflict can occur during group work. Check out this resource for navigating conflict and extra resources to help you with next steps.

          Effective Communication (Website, UBC)

          Effective communication is crucial for group work and takes practice. Use this resource to help you be understood and be understanding of others.

          Supporting Collaboration (Website, UBC)

          This resource provides information on different tools that you can use to keep track of your group work and make sure that everyone is on the same page in terms of organization.

          Chapman Learning Commons Resources

          Related Toolkits

          Managing Your Time 

          Struggling with managing your time or just want to develop a more efficient schedule? Check out our toolkit to learn how to create a schedule that works for you.

          Thinking Critically 

          Learn what it means to think critically, and how to implement the thinking technique into your daily and academic life with our toolkit.

          Workshop Key Information

          CLC Learning Skills Workshop on Online Communication Skills: Key Advice and Resource Handout 

          If you’re interested in more resources about online communication skills, check out our key advice and resource handouts from one of our previous Learning Skills workshops

          Your Turn

          Visit each of your profs at least once during office hours this semester and let us know how it goes. Was it helpful? Would you do it again?

          Tell us in the space below.

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          Humans of IKB: Behind the Services

          By Lucas Wright on August 19, 2022 |Tagged with:, ,

          Is a student-led project seeking to connect Irving K. Barber workers with the public through sharing personal experiences and insights about student and work life. Take a look at what some people in IKB have said, below!

          Meet Bo

          Program Assistant
          Centre for Writing and Scholarly Communication
          Link to Biography

          What do you like to do to increase your wellbeing?

          Spending time with my partner and my dog is the biggest stress reliever for me. For my wellbeing, I usually play a round of disc golf on the weekends or after work.

          What do you do to ensure that you’re meeting your goals, whether they are goals for your personal life, work, or school?

          I visualize reaching the goal and I keep in mind the feeling I had when I reached a similar goal. Generally I try to remember to take one step at a time.

          Sometimes conflicts arise in student or work life. How have you navigated those difficult interactions in the past?


          I keep a level head and try to understand the point of view of the other party as well as I can and then work with them on finding a compromise. Keeping in mind that it’s not heart surgery, i.e. that there are no lifes at stake, usually puts things into perspective for me.

          When embarking on a new job, experience, or situation, who do you go to or what do you do to help ease the process?

          A well thought out onboarding process is very important to me, when I start a new job. In situations were this is not given I ask a lot of questions to either my superiors or colleagues. I’m not afraid to get on their nerves and it has always paid off.

          Meet Eden

          Student Coordinator
          Digital Tattoo
          Link to the Digital Tattoo Project

          What do you do to ensure that you’re meeting your goals, whether they are goals for your personal life, work, or school?

          I’m a big fan of scheduling everything. I’m accountable to no man, but I am accountable to my planner. I find that scheduling things in as “appointments” helps me to actually complete tasks that I need to do. So if my goal is to do my class readings more consistently, I schedule a specific time in my day (usually at the same time every week) where I do the readings for a specific class. I used to find hourly planners annoying, but now I find them super helpful for this reason. I also find that having a friend that has a similar goal to you helps to achieve the goal. I recently have taken up tennis, and the best thing for this has been getting other friends to practice with me.

          Sometimes conflicts arise in student or work life. How have you navigated those difficult interactions in the past?


          If you talk to my family and friends, they’ll tell you that I always vent to them if I have conflict in my life. I like to talk through my problems, and also talk to friends if they have conflicts in their life. I find this helps diffuse the conflict, because I can discuss my problems with people who aren’t emotionally involved in the situation, instead of making the situation worse by getting upset with someone who’s involved.

          What do you like to do to increase your wellbeing?


          An act of self care I do for myself is not letting myself procrastinate. I used to put off essays and projects until the last minute, and then unnecessarily stress myself out when I was frantically writing them the night before they were due. This past year, I reframed doing work in advance as a form of self care for my future self. If I work on small portions of an essay or project a few weeks before it’s due, I get it done at an easy pace, and then I feel a lot calmer overall.

          Where is your favorite place to go to study or work on campus?

          I love the basement of Koerner [Library] by the windows. There aren’t a lot of distractions, people are usually quiet, and even during exams it doesn’t get super busy — so I’m always able to find a desk by the window. Plus, sometimes geese hang out in the grass outside.

          Meet Kira

          Student Media Project Assistant
          Chapman Learning Commons
          Link to Chapman Learning Commons Staff

          What do you like to do to increase your wellbeing?

          When I’m feeling stressed, the first thing I do is make sure that I get lots of sleep. In the past, I would prioritize work or assignments and sleep only a couple of hours per night. Overtime, I found that getting at least 6 hours of sleep per night improved my mental wellbeing a lot and helped me perform better at work.

          During your time at UBC or as a student, did you do anything to connect with others?


          When I first came to UBC, I was a transfer student so I found it very difficult to feel connected to others on campus. I found that one of the best ways to meet new people and feel like you are part of the UBC community is to join a club. Another way that I got involved on campus was getting a Work Learn position. Through my job at the Chapman Learning Commons, I am able to interact with tons of new students and I have met people from different disciplines and departments at UBC.

          When embarking on a new job, experience, or situation, who do you go to or what do you do to help ease the process?

          For me, dealing with a lot of change all at once can be extremely stressful. So, when I am starting a new job or experience, I try to keep everything else in my life very consistent. I plan out a daily schedule so that I minimize the amount of things that I have to worry about. If I’m still feeling really worried about the new situation, I’ll reach out to my friends and family to get advice.

          How have you seen student life shift during your time at UBC and what advice would you give to students facing a changing learning landscape?


          During my time at UBC, I’ve seen so many drastic shifts in the university learning experience. We’ve transitioned to online classes and services, then back to in-person before going online again! One thing I think that students should keep in mind as things change is that they’re not going through this alone! Your professors and the UBC staff are going through the same shifts as you are and are also learning how to adapt. If you’re struggling, reach out to someone even if it’s just one of your friends.

          Did you learn something new today? Do you want to learn more about the lives of our staff? Leave a comment about what questions we should ask next!

          Read More | No Comments

          DIY Media Studio

          By Learning Commons Team on August 16, 2022 |Tagged with:

          Discover DIY Media Studio

          Record high quality video and audio at the DIY Media Studio. The sound buffered DIY Media Studio provides access to microphones, a mixing board, a video camera and a Mac computer with audio and video software, including:

          • Adobe Creative Cloud – Premiere Pro for audio and video
          • Audacity – Audio recording
          • Camtasia – Screen capture/ audio recording
          • Open Broadcast Software (OBS) Free – Streaming, Annotation, Webcam Annotation.
          • Videoscribe

          Located in the Music Art and Architecture Library on the 3rd floor of IKBLC.


          Please ensure you bring an external memory device to save large files. Files cannot be saved to the workstation and are deleted between sessions.

          Book Now

          Book Now

          Terms and Conditions of DIY Media Studio Room Booking

          • Room must be booked at least 24 hours in advance.
          • Session length can be from 45 minutes to 2 hours and 45 minutes, depending on the start time of your booking. The session lengths allow for time between sessions to accommodate turnover of the studio for the next booking.
          • Please note that staff can only unlock the door for the individual who has made the booking. Individuals or groups of up to 2 are welcome.
          • Should any member of the same group book more than once a day, the second time slot will be cancelled.
          • Studio bookings are only available until 30 minutes before the Music, Art & Architecture Library closes. Please visit the hours portal for MAA hours.
          • Cancellations must be made at least 10 hours in advance of your confirmed studio booking. Two missed bookings or late cancellations will result in a loss of booking privileges.
          • Recording musical performances within the space is not permitted.
          • Please note while this room is a sound-buffered space located within a quiet study environment, it is not entirely sound-proof.

          Room Use Specs and Recording How to

          Room Specs

          Recording How To

          Troubleshooting

          • Troubleshooting Guide – FAQ on how to troubleshoot sound, Audacity, and equipment 
          • Have questions on how to operate the Mac Computer? Check out our FAQ!
          • Check in with the Chapman Learning Commons Help Desk

          Watch a Video on the Space

          Read More | 2 Comments

          Use Our Computers

          By Learning Commons Web Team on August 15, 2022 |Tagged with:

          The Irving K. Barber Learning Centre has computers available for you!
          We have 5 PC and 30 Mac workstations, as well as 5 Dual Display stations located on level 3. Additionally, 18 PCs are located on level 2.

          PC Computer Workstations

          Frequently Asked Questions

          Where are these computers?

          Irving K. Barber Learning Centre
          Level 2: outside Ike’s Cafe (19 stations)
          Level 3: Chapman Learning Commons (5 stations)

          Who can use these computers?

          • Current UBC students, faculty and staff can access our computers with a CWL login.
          • Alumni should be able to use their CWL login as well, but if you have issues, please ask for a one-time Guest Access Login at the help desk.
          • Community Users are able to gain access via Open Athens – instructions below:

          *For Guest Access Logins:

          • Please enter this information in the boxes marked as “Open Athens,” which are located below the CWL login entry section.
          • Please be aware that the Guest Access Logins are a new initiative. Our staff will do our best to assist and resolve any issues, but some may encounter small bugs. We appreciate your patience and understanding.

          Saving Files and Logging Out

          Our computer workstations are not able to save files or progress between sessions. This allows us to protect your personal information and keep our devices secure.

          Saving Files
          To save your files, you can:

          • Email your files to yourself.
          • Save your files to a USB or other external drive.
          • Save your files to an online storage cloud service, such as Google Drive.

          Logging Out

          1.When you have saved your files using the suggested options above, double click on the red icon on the desktop.

          2. A pop-up will confirm that you are aware that all files and progress will be deleted when you log out.

          Scanner Instructions

          Check out these interactive instructions, or read them below!

          When to use computer scanners (also known as “flatbed scanners”):

          • To scan to email
          • To scan multiple pages easily and free of charge
          • When you don’t have a USB flash drive to store your scans from a printer

          Where to find computer scanners:

          • 8 along the wall inside the Chapman Learning Commons (located on the 3rd floor of IKBLC, 2 connected to Windows PCs, 6 connected to Macs)
          • 1 Windows scanner in each of: Music, Art & Architecture Library (IKBLC 3rd floor), Education library, Koerner Library, Law Library, Asian Library, Biomedical Branch Library, Woodward Library, and Xwi7xwa Library
          • 1 Larger Scanner (up to 12.2” x 17.2”) in the Music, Arts & Architecture Library (4th floor)

          Cost: Free

          *If you don’t mind paying for scanning, and if you have a USB and your file is in PDF format, you may be able to print at one of our printers, as well. Please speak to us at the Help Desk if you would like assistance.

          Printing Instructions

          UBC uses Pay for Print at their printers to manage print jobs.
          See below for specific instructions for how to use Pay for Print!

          For more instructions, printing/scanning costs, and printer locations, please take a look at the Print, Copy, Scan page by the UBC Library.

          Pre-installed Software

          Software at Public Workstations

          Software Available at all
          PC Public Workstations           		Available at all
          Mac Public Workstations
          Adobe Acrobat Reader DC ✔
          Adobe Acrobat Pro DC ✔ ✔
          Adobe Acrobat Distiller DC ✔ ✔
          Adobe Creative Cloud : Sign in Required

          After Effects,Animate, Audition, Bridge,
          Dreamweaver, Fireworks, Illustrator, InCopy,
          InDesign,Lightroom, Muse, Photoshop,
          Prelude, Premiere, Scout, SpeedGrade

          Please note: Due to licensing restrictions,

          Adobe Creative Cloud software is not available

          remotely.

          		✔
          Adobe Digital Editions ✔
          Apple: Garageband, iMovie, Keynote,
          Numbers, Pages, Photos           		✔
          Quicktime Player ✔
          Audacity ✔
          Beyond 20/20 Professional Browser ✔
          Camtasia (TechSmith) ✔ ✔
          CyberDuck (for FTP) ✔
          Epson Scan ✔ ✔
          Google Earth ✔ ✔
          FileOpen ✔
          Filezilla ✔ ✔
          Juris-M ✔ ✔
          LibreOffice ✔
          Mendeley Plugin ✔ ✔
          Microsoft Office : Excel,
          OneNote, Powerpoint, Word           		✔ ✔
          Microsoft Office : Access, Publisher ✔
          7zip ✔
          Skype ✔ ✔
          Snagit (TechSmith) ✔ ✔
          VLC Media Player ✔ ✔
          Xcode and Bbedit ✔
          Zotero ✔ ✔

          Additional PC Software

          PC: Additional Software Availability Chapman

          Learning

          Commons

          Level 3

          		Koerner

          Rooms 217 and 218A

          		Koerner

          Room 497

          (Digital Scholarship Lab)

          		Woodward

          Teaching Lab

          Adobe Creative Cloud : Sign in Required

          After Effects,Animate, Audition, Bridge,
          Dreamweaver, Fireworks, Illustrator, InCopy,
          InDesign,Lightroom, Muse, Photoshop,
          Prelude, Premiere, Scout, SpeedGrade

          Please note: Due to licensing restrictions,

          Adobe Creative Cloud software is not available

          remotely.

          		✔ ✔ ✔
          Anaconda ✔
          ArcGIS Pro

          Please note: ArcGIS Pro now requires users to have

          their own Named User License.

          Please see https://gis.ubc.ca/software/ for more info.

          		✔ ✔
          Atom Code Editor ✔ ✔
          Blender ✔
          ESRI City Engine ✔ ✔
          FME Desktop ✔ ✔
          Gephi ✔
          Git ✔
          Google Earth Pro ✔ ✔ ✔
          Grass GIS ✔ ✔ ✔
          IrfanView Image Viewer ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
          Lockdown Browser

          Please note: must be installed by user

          		✔
          Matlab(Mathworks) ✔ ✔ ✔
          MiKTeX ✔
          Notepad++ ✔
          NVivo ✔ ✔ ✔
          OpenRefine ✔
          Oracle VM Virtualbox ✔
          Oxygen XML Editor ✔* ✔
          Pandoc ✔
          Pyzo ✔
          QGIS ✔ ✔ ✔
          R & R Studio ✔ ✔ ✔
          SAS ✔ ✔ ✔
          SPSS ✔ ✔ ✔
          Stata SE ✔* ✔
          TeXStudio ✔
          Tortoise SVN ✔
          Zoom ✔

          How to Take Screenshots

          USB Access

          You can use USBs at our PC workstations by accessing the ports on the side of the monitor.
          The red squares indicate USB ports.
          Don’t forget to take your USB with you when you leave!

          More

          Public PC workstations are available at all UBC Library locations.
          Public Mac workstations are available at the following locations:

          • 30 workstations in the Chapman Learning Commons on Level 3.
          • 8 stations in the Music, Art & Architecture Library on Level 3.
          • 4 stations in the Koerner Library on Level 3.
          • 16 stations in the Law Library on Level 2.
          • 6 stations in Canaccord Learning Commons (pre-bookable by Sauder students) on Level 2, room 221.

          Chinese/Japanese/Korean keyboards are pre-installed, other language input available for use via computer settings.

          Get Tech Support

          If you are experiencing technical issues, please contact the Chapman Learning Commons Help Desk (Level 3, Irving K. Barber Learning Centre) during operating hours or submit a ticket to UBC IT. (Please include your name, email address, CWL and the specifics of the issue, including the workstation number.)

          Mac Computer Workstations

          Frequently Asked Questions

          Where are these computers?

          Irving K. Barber Learning Centre
          Level 3: Chapman Learning Commons (30 stations)

          Who can use this computers?

          • Current UBC students, faculty and staff can access our computers with a CWL login.
          • Alumni should be able to use their CWL login as well, but if you have issues, please ask for a one-time Guest Access Login at the help desk.
          • Community Users are able to gain access via Open Athens – instructions below:

          *For Guest Access Logins:

          • Please enter this information in the boxes marked as “Open Athens,” which are located below the CWL login entry section.
          • Please be aware that the Guest Access Logins are a new initiative. Our staff will do our best to assist and resolve any issues, but some may encounter small bugs. We appreciate your patience and understanding.

          Saving Files and Logging Out

          Our computer workstations are not able to save files or progress between sessions. This allows us to protect your personal information and keep our devices secure.

          Saving Files
          To save your files, you can:

          • Email your files to yourself.
          • Save your files to a USB or other external drive.
          • Save your files to an online storage cloud service, such as Google Drive.

          Logging Out
          1. When you have saved your files using the suggested options above, double click on the red icon on the desktop.

          2. A pop-up will confirm that you are aware that all files and progress will be deleted when you log out.

          3. Click “Restart”, and the computer will restart on its own. You are now logged out!

          Scanner Instructions

          Check out these interactive instructions, or read them below!

          When to use computer scanners (also known as “flatbed scanners”):

          • To scan to email
          • To scan multiple pages easily and free of charge
          • When you don’t have a USB flash drive to store your scans from a printer

          Where to find computer scanners:

          • 8 along the wall inside the Chapman Learning Commons (located on the 3rd floor of IKBLC, 2 connected to Windows PCs, 6 connected to Macs)
          • 1 Windows scanner in each of: Music, Art & Architecture Library (IKBLC 3rd floor), Education library, Koerner Library, Law Library, Asian Library, Biomedical Branch Library, Woodward Library, and Xwi7xwa Library
          • 1 Larger Scanner (up to 12.2” x 17.2”) in the Music, Arts & Architecture Library (4th floor)

          Cost: Free

          *If you don’t mind paying for scanning, and if you have a USB and your file is in PDF format, you may be able to print at one of our printers, as well. Please speak to us at the Help Desk if you would like assistance.

          Printing Instructions

          UBC uses Pay for Print at their printers to manage print jobs.
          See below for specific instructions for how to use Pay for Print!

          For more instructions, printing/scanning costs, and printer locations, please take a look at the Print, Copy, Scan page by the UBC Library.

          Pre-Installed Software

          Software at Public Workstations

          Software at Public Workstations

          Software Available at all
          PC Public Workstations           		Available at all
          Mac Public Workstations
          Adobe Acrobat Reader DC ✔
          Adobe Acrobat Pro DC ✔ ✔
          Adobe Acrobat Distiller DC ✔ ✔
          Adobe Creative Cloud : Sign in Required

          After Effects,Animate, Audition, Bridge,
          Dreamweaver, Fireworks, Illustrator, InCopy,
          InDesign,Lightroom, Muse, Photoshop,
          Prelude, Premiere, Scout, SpeedGrade

          Please note: Due to licensing restrictions,

          Adobe Creative Cloud software is not available

          remotely.

          		✔
          Adobe Digital Editions ✔
          Apple: Garageband, iMovie, Keynote,
          Numbers, Pages, Photos           		✔
          Quicktime Player ✔
          Audacity ✔
          Beyond 20/20 Professional Browser ✔
          Camtasia (TechSmith) ✔ ✔
          CyberDuck (for FTP) ✔
          Epson Scan ✔ ✔
          Google Earth ✔ ✔
          FileOpen ✔
          Filezilla ✔ ✔
          Juris-M ✔ ✔
          LibreOffice ✔
          Mendeley Plugin ✔ ✔
          Microsoft Office : Excel,
          OneNote, Powerpoint, Word           		✔ ✔
          Microsoft Office : Access, Publisher ✔
          7zip ✔
          Skype ✔ ✔
          Snagit (TechSmith) ✔ ✔
          VLC Media Player ✔ ✔
          Xcode and Bbedit ✔
          Zotero ✔ ✔

          Additional Mac Software

          Additional Mac Software

          Mac: Additional Software Availability
          		Chapman
          Learning
          Commons
          Level 3          		 Music,
          Art &
          Architecture
          Level 3          		 Canaccord
          Learning
          Commons
          Rm 221
          Apple: Garageband, iMovie, Keynote,

          Numbers, Pages, Photos

          		✔ ✔ ✔
          Audacity ✔ ✔ ✔
          Final Cut Pro ✔ ✔ ✔
          Github ✔
          Redcine-x Pro ✔ ✔
          Videoscribe ✔
          Zoom ✔

          How to Take Screenshots

          Click here for the audio transcript (Downloadable PDF)

          USB-C Access

          You can use USB-Cs at our Mac workstations by accessing the ports on the back of the monitor.

          The red squares indicate USB-C ports.

          Don’t forget to take your USB-Cs with you when you leave!

          Using Adobe Creative Cloud

          Adobe Creative Cloud, including a PDF editor is available on all Mac computers in the CLC. See directions below for access.

          More

          Public PC workstations are available at all UBC Library locations.
          Public Mac workstations are available at the following locations:

          • 30 workstations in the Chapman Learning Commons on Level 3.
          • 8 stations in the Music, Art & Architecture Library on Level 3.
          • 4 stations in the Koerner Library on Level 3.
          • 16 stations in the Law Library on Level 2.
          • 6 stations in Canaccord Learning Commons (pre-bookable by Sauder students) on Level 2, room 221.

          Chinese/Japanese/Korean keyboards are pre-installed, other language input available for use via computer settings.

          Get Tech Support

          If you are experiencing technical issues, please contact the Chapman Learning Commons Help Desk (Level 3, Irving K. Barber Learning Centre) during operating hours or submit a ticket to UBC IT. (Please include your name, email address, CWL and the specifics of the issue, including the workstation number.)

          Dual Display Stations

          Frequently Asked Questions

          Who can use these stations?

          Dual display stations are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and are open to all library users; however, users who need access to the library’s electronic resources will be required to login as usual on their laptop with a UBC Campus-Wide Login (CWL) or OpenAthens account.

          Where are these stations?

          Irving K. Barber Learning Centre

          Level 2: outside Ike’s Cafe (5 stations)
          Level 3: Chapman Learning Commons (5 stations)

          How it works

          Each dual display station comes equipped with a universal dock that connects to a secondary monitor, keyboard and mouse. Attach your phone, laptop, or tablet using the USB-C cord connected to the universal dock. This will connect you to the station’s keyboard, mouse, and monitor.

          Set the monitor display on your device into either extended mode or mirror mode. If required, install the DisplayLink driver.

          Access the User’s Guide for the Dell Universal Dock D6000S at: dell.com/support.

          Accessing library resources

          To access library resources, login at: library.ubc.ca.

          For more information about access, visit: guides.library.ubc.ca/connect.

          Printing Instructions

          UBC uses Pay for Print at their printers to manage print jobs. See below for specific instructions for how to use Pay for Print!

          For more instructions, printing/scanning costs, and printer locations, please take a look at the Print, Copy, Scan page by the UBC Library.

          Get Tech Support

          If you are experiencing technical issues, please contact the Chapman Learning Commons Help Desk (Level 3, Irving K. Barber Learning Centre) during operating hours or submit a ticket to UBC IT. (Please include your name, email address, CWL and the specifics of the issue, including the workstation number.)

          Read More | No Comments

          Print, Copy, Scan

          By Learning Commons Web Team on August 12, 2022 |Tagged with:

          Print

          UBC Pay for Print allows students, faculty and staff as well as guests to the University to pay for printing, copying and scanning across campus using a unified system of payment – the UBC Card or UBC Guest Card.

          Pay for Print Set Up

          Click on the image(s) below to learn how to quickly set up pay for print. Click on the buttons to move quickly through the document.

          UBC Pay for Print for student. Frist time user and existing user

          More information on printing and copying set up can be found here

          Copy

          Photocopier Locations

          All UBC Library branches have photocopiers with black & white, colour and double-sided capabilities. Coin-operated copying is not available.source: https://wiki.ubc.ca/Library:PhotocopierLocations

          Copying Rates

          Prices

          Letter (8.5×11″) & Legal Paper Large (11×17″) Paper
          Black & White Colour Single-sided Colour Double-sided (per side) Black & White Colour Colour Double-sided (per side)
          Photocopying 7¢ 40¢ 35¢ 10¢ 50¢ 45¢
          Printing 7¢ 40¢ 35¢ 10¢ 50¢ 45¢

          Please note:

          • All prices are per page including tax.
          • A page is defined by one side of a sheet of paper.
          • The default print setting on Library workstations is double-sided and you will therefore be charge 14¢ if the impression is on both sides. For Web Print, you can select which print queue you wish to use (duplex=double-sided)
          • For printing on 11 x 17 paper use web print for best results.
          • Print 11 x 17 pages at the Irving K Barber Learning Centre. Visit the Chapman Learning Commons Help Desk on the 3rd floor for more information.
          • For more information on copy services by staff, see below.
          • The Library will refund photocopy costs due to the mechanical errors of photocopiers or faulty cards, but not operator error.

          Special Copying

          Enhanced Services

          UBC Library cardholders who qualify for Enhanced Services may order photocopying by staff through UBC Library’s Document Delivery service.

          Rare Books & Special Collections

          Rare Books and Special Collections offers copying services to both patrons in the reading room and those unable to visit in person. Please see our Services page for information on fees. Similarly for the University Archives, please see the Copying Services and Fees page.

          Copyright

          It is your responsibility to be aware of copyright restrictions to photocopying, printing, and scanning materials. See UBC Copyright Guide for more information.

          Scan

          2 ways to scan at IKBLC: Scan to USB (Printer) - pay for print, Computer Scanners. Scanning to USB using the printer costs 2 cents per page. Scanning at the computer is free.

          Scanner Location

          UBC Library offers scanners at all library branches, specifically:

          Large Format Scanner Locations

          A large format flatbed scanner is available on level 3 and level 4 of the Music, Art and Architecture Library. It is capable of scanning documents up to 12.2″ x 17.2″.

          Copyright

          It is your responsibility to be aware of copyright restrictions to photocopying, printing, and scanning materials. See UBC Copyright Guide for more information.

          Sustainability

          The Chapman Learning Commons has a commitment to sustainability. Conserve your use of paper. Please see our Sustainability Guide, also below, for more tips on how to use paper sustainably.

          Related Links

          Read More | 1 Comment

          Taking Notes

          By Learning Commons Web Team on August 10, 2022 |Tagged with:

          Learn
          OpenClose

          Learn

          View Infographic
          Reflect
          OpenClose

          Reflect

          We recommend exploring all of the answers below, as each contains information you may find valuable even if the answer does not currently apply to your circumstances.

          Apply
          OpenClose

          Apply

          Explore
          OpenClose

          Explore

          Websites & Videos

          Articles & Websites

          Types of Academic Accommodations (Resources, UBC)

          Learn what academic accommodations available at UBC, your eligibility, and how academic accommodations can help you.

          Note-taking in class (Article, Royal Roads University)

          Learn more about taking notes in class, and how you can take note more efficiently in this article.

          Note-taking Apps (Article, California Community Colleges)

          California Community Colleges’ Accessibility Centre has compiled a list of different note taking apps and their user guides to help you discover the perfect app for you.

          UBC Resources

          UBC: Note Taking Strategy for the University Student (YouTube, UBC)

          UBC’s video breaks down different note taking strategies, each style’s benefits, and how each method might work best for you.

          Chapman Learning Commons Resources

          Related Toolkits

          Preparing for Exams 

          In this toolkit you will learn how to prepare well in advance and gain confidence in test-writing.

          Thinking Critically

          Learn what it means to think critically, and how to implement the thinking technique into your daily and academic life with our toolkit.

          Reading Textbooks 

          Find out how to read effectively while also getting through piles of material with our toolkit.

          Your Turn

          Try using one of the 5 recommended note taking strategies this semester and let us know if you found it useful.

          Share your thoughts below.

          Read More | 43 Comments

          New to UBC? Start Here!

          By Kira on August 5, 2022 |Tagged with:,

          Four students walking on campus and smiling
          Are you a new UBC student who wants to prepare for the fast-approaching school year? Or have you been on campus for a while but want to find more places and resources to connect to? Check out our Learn from Peers: New to UBC guide!

          Our helpful guide acts as a hub for all the resources that can help you transition into UBC student life. Learn how your UBC peers chose their majors and navigated their way through university in the guide’s videos. It also features advice from UBC students on important aspects of student life like housing, budgeting, and more.

          If you’re looking to feel more connected on campus, the New to UBC guide is here to help. Let us know in the comments below if you’ve checked out the guide.

          Read More | No Comments

          Interacting with Profs

          By Learning Commons Web Team on August 3, 2022 |Tagged with:

          Learn
          OpenClose

          Learn

          The following video is part of a “Interacting with Profs” playlist. To watch the other videos of the series, click the playlist button.

          View Infographic
          Download Transcript
          How to Approach Office Hours
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          Websites & Videos

          Articles & Websites

          Chapman Learning Commons: Office Hours (Website, CLC)

          Learn more tips and tricks about attending office hours in this resource.

          Student Services: Academic Concessions (Website, UBC)

          If you want to learn more about academic concession, whether it applies to you, and how you can receive academic concession check out this resource.

          Videos

          Academic Week: How to Speak to Professors (YouTube, Academic Week)

          Feeling nervous about meeting you professor one-on-one for the first time? Check out this video on how to speak to professors.

          Chapman Learning Commons Resources

          Related Toolkits

          Managing Your Time

          Struggling with managing your time or just want to develop a more efficient schedule? Check out our toolkit to learn how to create a schedule that works for you.

          Your Turn

          Visit each of your profs at least once during office hours this semester and let us know how it goes. Was it helpful? Would you do it again?

          Tell us in the space below.

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          Foundational Skills

          By Learning Commons Web Team on August 2, 2022 |Tagged with:

          These video tutorials are designed to teach foundational technology skills that improve your learning experience.
          Watch and learn how to utilize online learning platforms, reformat digital documents, and more!

          General

          How to Take a Screenshot to Document Your Assignment Submission

          Click here for the audio transcript (Downloadable PDF)

          Canvas version in video: Latest as of January 2021

          How to Save a Word Document as a PDF (PC)

          Click here for the audio transcript (Downloadable PDF)

          Operating System: Windows 10
          Software Edition: Word 365

          How to Save a Word Document as a PDF (Mac)

          Click here for the audio transcript (Downloadable PDF)
          Operating System: macOS 10.14 Mojave
          Software Edition: Word 2016

          Canvas

          How to submit an assignment to Canvas

          Click here for the audio transcript (Downloadable PDF)
          Canvas version in video: Latest as of January 2021

          How to comment on a discussion thread in Canvas

          Click here for the audio transcript (Downloadable PDF)
          Canvas version in video: Latest as of January 2021

          How to reply to a discussion thread in Canvas

          Click here for the audio transcript (Downloadable PDF)
          Canvas version in video: Latest as of January 2021

          4. More Canvas questions

          Have questions about accessing and using Canvas? Check out the UBC Student Canvas Guide from The LT hub, it is a great place to get started!

          Zoom

          1. How to log on to Zoom using an embedded link

          Click here for the audio transcript (Downloadable PDF)
          Zoom version in video: 5.4.7

          2. How to log on to Zoom using a personal meeting link

          Click here for the audio transcript (Downloadable PDF)
          Zoom version in video: 5.4.7

          3. How to log on to Zoom using a meeting ID and passcode

          Click here for the audio transcript (Downloadable PDF)
          Zoom version in video: 5.4.7

          4. How to Use the Camera, Mic, and Chat in Zoom

          Click here for the audio transcript (Downloadable PDF)
          Zoom version in video: 5.4.7

          Pay for Print

          How to print multiple sheets per page from a PDF using PayForPrint (Webprint)(Mac)

          Click here for the audio transcript (Downloadable PDF)
          Operating System: macOS 10.14 Mojave

          How to print a range of pages from a PDF using PayForPrint (Webprint)(Mac)

          Click here for the audio transcript (Downloadable PDF)
          Operating System: macOS 10.14 Mojave

          How to print a selection of pages from a Word document using PayForPrint (Webprint) (Mac)

          Click here for the audio transcript (Downloadable PDF)
          Operating System: macOS 10.14 Mojave

          Scanning

          How to scan documents using the computer scanners (Windows)

          Click here for the audio transcript (Downloadable PDF)

          How to scan documents using the computer scanners (Apple)

          Click here for the audio transcript (Downloadable PDF)

          Would you like to see more Foundational Skills Videos?

          Submit Your Ideas!

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          Approach to Learning: Self Assessment

          By Learning Commons Web Team on August 2, 2022 |Tagged with:

          What’s your approach? Take this quiz and find out…

          This quiz may help you gain a little more insight into your typical approach to learning and which strategies may work well for you in maximizing your strengths. This is not a researched and tested instrument; it is meant to provide you with an avenue for self exploration in preparation for learning. In contrast to claims about learning styles, which are largely unsubstantiated (see the Myth of Learning Styles by Cedar Riener and Daniel Willingham ), your approach to learning is changeable and takes into account your interests, motivations and tendencies which may influence learning.

          Download the full quiz transcript for all questions and answer options!

          Links & Resources: By Question

          Question 1: When I am part of a discussion on a topic I am somewhat familiar with, I:

          Taking Notes

          Notes are another inescapable part of getting a university education. We might not be able to make them fun, but we can offer tips on how to make them useful.
          Reading Textbooks

          Question 2: My approach to group work is usually:

          Taking Notes
          Notes are another inescapable part of getting a university education. We might not be able to make them fun, but we can offer tips on how to make them useful.
          Working in Groups
          Working with groups can be stressful–and rewarding! We’ll show you how to make the most of any project.
          Group Process
          Getting started with your group? One of the first things you might want to do is create a document, sometimes called a group charter, which clarifies what the group is about, what the group expects from its members, and other, related guidelines.

          Question 3: I prefer my instructors to be:

          Interacting with Profs
          Why should you go to office hours? Why does your professor want you to be there? Find answers to those questions and more in this toolkit!

          Question 4: During online group work, I prefer my peers to:

          Communicating Effectively
          Learn about why we communicate, and how we can improve that with guidelines and tools!
          Resources for Respectful Debate
          Don’t know how to politely disagree? Learn how to approach delicate subjects in a respectful manner.

          Question 5: When approaching a new learning experience or technology, I typically:

          Top 5 Learning Challenges
          Check this page out to learn more about how your brain works, and the best study strategies.

          Question 6: In thinking about my goals for learning today, the most important thing for me is to:

          Top 5 Learning Challenges
          Check this page out to learn more about how your brain works, and the best study strategies.
          Academic and Learning Resources
          Find out how UBC is supporting learning challenges, and how you can access these resources.
          Blog post: How to Get the Most Out of Your University Experience (2-part series)

          Question 7: I most often approach brainstorming activities by:

          Taking Notes
          Notes are another inescapable part of getting a university education. We might not be able to make them fun, but we can offer tips on how to make them useful.

          Question 8: When I need more information, I usually:

          Interacting with Profs
          Why should you go to office hours? Why does your professor want you to be there? Find answers to those questions and more in this toolkit!
          The Reflection Process
          You know that cold sweat that creeps over you the night before the term paper is due? The one you haven’t started? If you’re like me, and this thought is scary to you, keep on reading for some tips on how to avoid a situation like this. And make sure to check out plan and evaluate and read/review and organize for more information.

          Question 9: In dealing with a roadblock, either technical, academic or personal, I tend to:

          UBC Health
          Maintaining your physical and mental well-being can go a long way to support your learning. Take a look at the resources offered by UBC.
          UBC Wellness Centre
          Through the Wellness Centre, you can connect with trained students to navigate campus services, talk to a peer about what is going on for you, and learn more about health topics and wellness resources.

          Question 10: When I am learning something new, I prefer:

          AMS Clubs
          Getting involved in learning activities or projects with fellow students can allow you to engage with different opinions and perspectives. Check out the AMS for student clubs and societies for some possible opportunities!
          Centre for Student Involvement and Careers (Toolkits: Job Search, Networking, or book a career advising service)
          Get connected with career and professional development resources.

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          Course Registration: Self Assessment

          By Learning Commons Web Team on July 29, 2022 |Tagged with:

          Photo by UBC Media Relations on Flickr

          How can you choose classes that will fit you best? Take this quiz and find out…

          What do you look for the most when registering for courses? Topic, academic objectives, instructor, course format, or time? Take this quiz to figure out what’s most important for you. This is not a researched and tested instrument; it is meant to provide you with an avenue for determining what matters to you when deciding on your courses. Everyone’s priorities in course selection are different, and even you and your closest friends may pick different answers.

          Download the full quiz transcript for all questions and answer options!

          Links & Resources

          Question 1: When I look at the start and end times of the course, I would like:

          Navigating Time Differences for Online Exams
          Choosing Courses at UBC Part 2: Considering Online Learning
          On Burning Out
          Focusing Flexibly:Tips for Staying Zoned-In
          The Pomodoro Technique:Study more efficiently, take more breaks
          Why Keeping a To-Do List is a Good Idea
          The Pros, The Cons, and the How To’s of work-school balance

          Question 2: For me, I learn best when an instructor:

          Interacting with Profs
          Approach to Learning: Self-Assessment

          Question 3: When I look at a syllabus, I look at:

          Interacting with Profs
          Time Management Toolkit
          Assignment Calculator
          Why Keeping a To-Do List is a Good Idea

          Question 4: My post-grad plans involve:

          UBC Graduate Programs
          Advice from UBC Graduate Students
          The Graduate Gameplan
          Centre for Student Involvement and Careers
          Transferable Skills: Self-Assessment
          How to Get the Most Out of Your University Experience (Part 1)
          Ten Thousand Coffees
          Grad Student Diaries: “So, what’s your plan for after graduation?”
          Using Alumni UBC resources after graduation

          Question 5: When I am choosing my courses, my top priority is:

          Talk to an academic advisor of your Faculty
          Approach to Learning: Self-Assessment
          UBC Wellness Centre
          Mindfulness Meditation as a tool for Mental Health and Academic Success
          A Positive Approach to Facing University

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          Open Licensing for Students

          By Learning Commons Web Team on July 29, 2022 |Tagged with:

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          Common Knowledge

          By Learning Commons Web Team on July 29, 2022 |Tagged with:

          Learn
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          Articles & Website

          What is Common Knowledge? (Website, MIT)

          Massachusetts Institute of Technology summarizes an overview of common knowledge and highlights important questions to consider.

          How to Cite (Website, UBC Library)

          What if the information is not common knowledge? This research guide breaks down citing difference resources with ease!

          Videos

          Avoiding Plagiarism Tutorial: Common Knowledge (Video, Langara College Library)

          This informational video covers the basics on how to determine if information is common knowledge in your discipline or field.

          Chapman Learning Commons Resources

          Related Toolkits

          Thinking Critically

          You can’t get the most out of university without learning to think critically. It isn’t easy, but with our handy guide, we’ll have you thinking up a storm in no time!

          Writing

          As an university student, you’ll probably write a lot of papers. We’ve partnered with the UBC Library to bring you tools to help take the headaches out of writing.

          Related Resource Guides

          Cite Sources

          What if the information is not common knowledge? This resource guide breaks down citing difference resources with ease!

          Your Turn

          Now you have learned what is common knowledge. Take some time to ask yourself:

          • What is your biggest takeaway?
          • How did your perception of common knowledge change throughout the learning process?
          • Can you come up with a common knowledge and challenge it with the questions you noted in the Apply section?

          Drop your comments below to tell us what you think!

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          Citation: Self-Assessment

          By Learning Commons Web Team on July 29, 2022 |Tagged with:

          Photo by UBC Library Communications and Marketing on Flickr

          When do you cite? How do you cite? Take this quiz and find out…

          Knowing how to properly cite your sources will be important for your entire academic journey, but some citation rules can bring confusion and even stress. Take this quiz to figure out how to navigate through some common citation errors and uncertainties, and how best to solve them to avoid academic repercussions. Going over the mentioned resources at the end may also help you answer some questions you might have for future assignments!

          Links and Resources

          Question 1: You are considering reusing parts of an old assignment you submitted for a different course. Would this be a case of plagiarism?

          Academic Misconduct page, UBC Calendar

          Question 2: Oh no! Even though you ran your assignment through a plagiarism checker, you realize that you forgot to cite a source – but you already submitted it! What do you do?

          No linked resources.

          Question 3: What is the best way to avoid plagiarism?

          Understanding Academic Integrity

          Question 4: You are working on a paper and want to use material from previous lectures. So you:”

          Cite Common Knowledge

          Question 5: You are having trouble finding an element (e.g. authors, DOIs, etc.) for a citation. What do you do?

          Cite Sources
          AskAway

          Question 6: You are trying to cite a primary source and cannot find a matching citation example for the style you want to cite it in, you:

          Citing Archival and Primary Material (UBC Library)
          Cite Sources
          AskAway

          Question 7: There is a section of a phrase you want to include in your paper in the exact same order as the original source. Would it be fine to cite it without using quotation marks?

          Purdue OWL Website
          Yale Poorvu Center for Teaching and Learning

          Question 8: You need to cite data for an assignment and are having trouble finding the correct way to arrange your elements. What is the best way to ensure you are accurately citing your data?


          AskAway

          Question 9: What sort of repercussions can one expect if they commit academic misconduct?

          Academic Misconduct page, UBC Calendar

          Question 10: Finally, what are some efficient ways that you can develop good citation practices and get familiarized with academic integrity at UBC?

          Assignment Calculators
          Academic Misconduct page, UBC Calendar
          Academic Integrity & Citations
          AskAway

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          Sleep and Academic Success

          By Learning Commons Web Team on July 28, 2022 |Tagged with:

          Learn
          OpenClose

          Learn

          Watch the 3-video series before proceeding to the Apply questions!
          View Infographic
          Download Transcript (1/3)
          Download Transcript (2/3)
          Download Transcript (3/3)
          Reflect
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          Apply
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          Websites & Videos

          Toolkit Handouts

          Infographic Handout (PDF, CLC)

          Check out this visual summary of all the toolkit content!

          Sleep and Academic Success: Workshop Handout (PDF, CLC)

          This useful document outlines questions to consider when thinking about sleep and how to address the sleep related challenges that students face.

          Websites & Books

          Sleep for Success – UBC Student Services (Website, UBC)

          UBC Student Services provides a thorough overview of the importance of sleep and resources that can help you improve your sleep hygiene.

          UBC Wellness Centre (Website, UBC)

          Learn how to access the UBC Wellness Centre’s services, events, and programs.

          UBC Wellness Centre Online (Canvas Course, UBC)

          Enroll in this Canvas course to get access to wellness resources and learn about a wide variety of topics including sleep and mental health.

          Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker (Book, UBC Library)

          Explore sleep on a deeper level in this book that answers many important questions about sleep and its importance in our lives.

          Sleep Solution by Chris Winter (Book, VPL)

          If you’re having sleep difficulties, read this book that outlines why certain sleep disorders occur and how to help solve them.

          Videos

          What Would Happen If You Didn’t Sleep (Youtube, Claudia Aguirre)

          Watch this quick video to learn about the effects of sleep deprivation on your brain, body, and cognition.

          Why Sleep Matters (Youtube, Harvard Medical School)

          This video lecture covers the importance of sleep and how to sleep better and longer.

          Chapman Learning Commons Resources

          Related Toolkits

          Communicating Your Needs

          Learn a 3-step approach for navigating difficult conversations about personal boundaries.

          Managing Your Time

          Wasting a lot of time online? Pulling too many all-nighters? Getting better at managing your time is easier than you think!

          Related Blog Posts

          Sleep, Exercise and Balance: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 (Blog Posts, CLC)

          This three-part blog series describes how to achieve harmony between your school life, mental health and physical wellbeing.

          Sleep, Eat, and Exercise: Simple 10-Minute Ways to Feel Better Now (Blog Post, UBC)

          Read this blog post for quick tips on improving your sleep, food, and exercise habits even during the busy exam season.

          Your Turn

          Choose a time to go to sleep and to wake up every day, and be consistent with this schedule. See if you notice any positive or negative changes in your well-being and academic performance overall. Let us know your results in the comments!

          Drop your comments below to tell us what you think!

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          Managing Your Time

          By Learning Commons Web Team on July 26, 2022 |Tagged with:

          Learn
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          Learn

          View Infographic
          Download the Video Transcript
          Reflect
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          Websites & Videos

          Worksheets & Time Management Tools

          Weekly Planning Worksheet (Word Document, UBC)

          Use this UBC-created downloadable template to plan out your time during the week and create a schedule that fits your needs.

          13 Powerful Ways To Visualize Your Data (Blog Post, Sisense Team)

          If you’re making your presentation and you’re trying to figure out the best way to visualize your data, check out this article about the different resources you could use to present different types of data.

          Your Energy Cycle (Word Document, UBC)

          Use this downloadable document by UBC to track your energy levels throughout the day in order to visualize when you are most active and create a schedule that fits around your energy levels.

          Videos

          Time Management (YouTube, UBC Leap)

          UBC Leap’s Time Management video focuses on creating a work and life balance and how you can create free time for yourself while also managing your class schedule and school work.

          Study Exam Skills (YouTube, UBC Leap)

          UBC Leap’s Study Exam Skills video focuses on different elements that you should keep in mind during the exam season, such as how to create a study schedule that best fits your workload.

          Three Design Hacks for Better Visual Presentations (YouTube, BrightCarbon)

          Check out this video by BrightCarbon for three easy design hacks on how to make your presentations the best that they could be.

          Inside the Mind of a Master Procrastinator (TedTalk, Tim Urban)

          In Tim Urban’s TedTalk, he encourages viewers to explore the reasons why they might be procrastinating in the first place in order to uncover what they are really trying to avoid and face the problem head-on.

          Chapman Learning Commons Resources

          Related Toolkits

          Preparing for Exams

          Learn key presentation skills and advice on how to put your best foot forward when presenting with our Presentation Skills toolkit.

          Related Tools

          Personal Time Survey (Word Document, CLC)

          Use this downloadable word document in order to properly visualize what you are spending your time on during the week and assess where you might need to shift your schedule.

          The Eisenhower Matrix (Word Document, CLC)

          Use this downloadable word document to organize your tasks based on priority levels.

          SMART Goals Worksheet (Word Document, CLC)

          Use this worksheet to create a framework that allows you to set detailed goals with a clearer picture of how to achieve them.

          Chapman Learning Commons: Time Management Tools (Website, CLC)

          Learn more about different time management tools and their different features to discover which scheduling program works best for you.

          Learning Skills Workshop on Time Management when Learning Online: Key Advice & Resources Handout (PDF, CLC)

          A summary of key takeaways and advice from CLC’s Time Management when Learning Online workshop.

          Your Turn

          At the beginning of the semester write all of your major assignments down on a calendar. At the end of the semester reflect on whether or not this helped you manage your time.

          Tell us how it went in the space below.

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          Presentation Skills

          By Learning Commons Web Team on July 22, 2022 |Tagged with:

          Learn
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          Download Transcript
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          Websites & Videos

          UBC Resources

          Presentation Skills (Guide, UBC Student Services)

          A useful article from Student Services that includes a walkthrough of each stage of the presentation process.

          Learning Skills Workshop on Online Group Presentations: Key Advice & Resources Handout (PDF, CLC)

          A handout that covers all of the key challenges that students face during online presentations and tips for how to overcome them.

          UBC Clubs

          UBC Toastmasters (Website, UBC Club)

          Practice your presentation skills and meet your peers in the UBC Toastmasters club.

          UBC Debate Society (Website, UBC Club)

          Whether you are a master debater or a novice, join this club to build public speaking skills and compete in debate competitions.

          Videos

          How To Give a Great Oral Presentation (YouTube, Microbiology Society)

          Get tips on how to give the best presentation possible in this video that covers the entire process from planning to delivery.

          Be A More Confident Public Speaker (YouTube, Watchwellcast)

          This useful video also features a handout to help you perfect your public speaking skills.

          Chapman Learning Commons Resources

          Related Toolkits

          Presentation Design

          Designing a presentation may sound easier than it seems! With the help of our toolkit, you’ll be able to design the most effective presentation for academic and professional needs.

          Library Research

          Research is one of the most exciting but also one of the most daunting experiences of students at UBC. Take the fear out of it with our helpful guide!

          Managing Your Time

          Wasting a lot of time online? Pulling too many all-nighters? Getting better at managing your time is easier than you think!

          Interacting With Profs

          Why should you go to office hours? Why does your professor want you to be there? Find answers to those questions and more in this toolkit!

          Your Turn

          Before your next presentation, try practicing in front of the mirror and in front of a friend. Which one was more helpful?

          Drop your comments below to tell us what you think!

          Read More | 2 Comments