The Penguin Random House Canada Student Award for Fiction is an endowed award that is open to all learners who have taken a creative writing course at SCS in the previous year. These writers have taken a spark of an idea and transformed it into a piece of writing they (and we) are proud of. Established in 2002, this award is valued at $2,500, plus two finalist awards of $1,000 each annually.

A big congrats to these finalists, who have unleashed their creative potential! Winners and Honourable Mentions will be announced soon! 

FINALISTS

Gemma Barrett, Checkbox
Sheila Burpee Duncan, Arbour Marie
Stephanie Grella, Avenue of Saints
James Harrison, Confabulations
Alexis Patoine, Pile of Bones
Michelle Reale, Maktoub (It is Written)
Miriam Richer, Babes in the Woods
Sharon Selby, Turkey Vultures
Alison Stevenson, A Mouthful of Sunshine
Heidi Tiedemann, The First Mrs. Robinson

In my time overseeing the English Language Program (ELP) at the University of Toronto, I have seen, again and again, how learning a new language with us can be life-changing. I love hearing where new English skills take our learners. Whether they go on to find career success, complete a degree, or simply connect with a new community, it’s thrilling to see them meet their goals. 
To achieve those goals though, you need to know where to start. Here are a few questions I suggest you consider when deciding on an English language program to enrol in. 

1. Where do you want to study? Our learners love practicing their English skills in a large and friendly multicultural city like Toronto. It’s great to see them use the city as a launchpad to explore the rest of Canada as well. 
2. What are your goals? Are you planning to study for academic purposes, for work, or to be able to communicate in a new country? At ELP, we offer a variety of courses for your different goals, as well as custom programming for organizations.  
3. What is your timeline and availability? Does it make sense for you to enrol in full or part-time studies?  Learning English can be so rewarding, but it does take time. It’s important to be realistic about how many weeks or months you’re able to commit to your studies, especially if you are studying abroad. We want to see all of our learners succeed! 
4. What kind of learner are you? Do you prefer to study in person in a traditional classroom, or do you enjoy the flexibility of an online course that allows you to study from anywhere? We know some people find it easy to connect with classmates and find their motivation to learn in an online classroom, while for others, it is important to see their classmates and instructors in person. 
5. Have you done your research? There are many organizations that offer English language programs. It’s important to compare programs you are considering. Is it a reputable school or organization? Do they use up-to-date technology and offer courses and support that will meet your needs? Do they have positive testimonials from their students? Do you know someone who has studied there? If so, reach out to them and ask about their experience and don’t hesitate to contact the school directly with any questions or concerns you might have.  Also, look into whether the curriculum is current and aligned with your language goals.

Lisa Morgan has been dedicated to teaching, leading, and directing at the School of Continuing Studies’ ELP for over 20 years. She is passionate about supporting the academic, professional, and personal goals of international learners. 
 

It’s human nature to desire a sense of control and agency over our lives. Right now, things feel tough because there’s a lot outside our personal control; the pandemic, the shifts in the workforce, rapidly changing technology…the list goes on! 

However, there are a few things in our control, that can have a massive effect on our career trajectory, and our personal evolution.  

The THREE Rs of Success 

In the midst of overwhelming change, here’s what we CAN control: 

REFLECT 

First, look inward.  

We can pause, and look inward to assess and re-affirm our core strengths, skills, and capabilities. 

Ask yourself; what am I really good at? 
What do I enjoy?  
What types of tasks or projects make time fly?  
What do colleagues tend to value about me, or compliment me on? 

Write these down. 

For example, are you a strong problem solver? Do you have stellar communication skills? Are you an analytical thinker? Do you learn new technologies quickly? Are you great at training people? 

Next, take a step back and look at your list of core strengths. How can you leverage those skills in new or emerging labour markets? Can you use these core skills in a different sector? Consider that your skills are not chained to your current or previous role; know that there are possibilities beyond your specific area of focus. 

As companies and industries begin to rebuild after the pandemic, there will be an uptick in new (perhaps unexpected) employment opportunities, some of which could be quite different from the pre-pandemic environment. As employers begin to innovate, different career options will emerge. By having a deep knowledge of our strengths and capabilities, we position ourselves to pivot and transition into new roles.  

Careers don’t “just happen”. By reflecting and growing self-knowledge of our capabilities, we give ourselves a powerful advantage that will allow us to navigate the current uncertainties with focus and confidence.  

RESKILLING 

Next, look outward. 

Next, look outward. What are emerging trends in the labour market? Those of us interested in pivoting to different jobs, careers, or sectors can explore educational opportunities to broaden our repertoire of skills in a short time. This is where access to micro-courses (which are short, targeted learning opportunities that focus on skills and competency development) can fast-track access to new opportunities.  

Reskilling helps us explore alternative careers, and broadens our access to the labour market. 

RESILIENCE

Now, look around.

So many of us have become isolated, and in order for us to thrive in this emerging economy, we need to re-connect and build resilience. Consider re-committing to pursuits that give you purpose and direction. Try new activities, challenge yourself, and support others in your community.  

We are here to help you reflect, reskill, and stay resilient as you journey forward. Check out The Three Rs of Success to learn more! 

At SCS, we support human potential one individual, one organization, one community at a time. The Three Rs of Success is an opportunity for you to learn more about who we are, what we offer, and our unique perspective on lifelong learning! 

This digital experience delves into the benefits (both to individuals and organizations) of building a culture of continuous education, and focuses on the three R’s of success: reflection, reskilling and resilience. It shares details about Blueprint, our new career services program, which is designed to help you thrive in our rapidly changing world. It explores our corporate and organizational training, English Language Program, Comparative Education Service, and micro-credential offerings, that are here to support you as you pursue your career and personal development goals. It also offers exciting information about our vast range of continuing education opportunities, from business and technological studies, to the arts, humanities, and creative writing. The Three Rs of Success also shares two stories about SCS learners whose lives have been changed by their commitment to lifelong learning. 

Our Dean, Dr. Catherine Chandler-Crichlow, is especially eager to share this digital space with our audiences. “I’m thrilled to be leading a shift in how we view and embrace lifelong learning. As the top university in Canada, U of T is the perfect place to incubate and grow innovative ideas around reskilling, upskilling, reflection, and personal resilience. At SCS, our approach to lifelong learning is unique. Here. we share that new vision,” she says. “I hope you’ll enjoy exploring information about the diverse services and opportunities we offer at SCS, and some food for thought about the future of work and your place in it!” 

We are here to help you navigate your continuing education journey, and hope you’ll enjoy learning more about SCS.

Each year, the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies recognizes instructors who exemplify excellence in adult education. SCS Excellence in Teaching Award winners are nominated by learners who feel that their instructors have gone above and beyond to share their knowledge in a way that is particularly engaging, helpful and inspiring. 

“It is such a pleasure to hear from our learners how their instructors inspire and motivate them,” says SCS Dean Dr. Catherine Chandler-Crichlow. “We know that over the past couple of years, the wonderful people who teach our courses have had to stretch and adapt like never before to keep lifelong learning alive throughout the pandemic. They absolutely rose to the challenge, exhibiting their fierce dedication to education and their students. I am so grateful for all of our instructors, and very proud of this year’s winners!”

This year’s award winners, being recognized for teaching during the 2020-2021 academic year, are: 

Excellence in Teaching – Business and Professional Studies 
Georgina Cannon
Tim Fong
Jason Yarmolinsky

Excellence in Teaching – Arts & Science
Carolyn Harris

Excellence in Teaching – Creative Writing 
Martha Batiz

Excellence in Teaching – Languages and Translation
Nadine Atwi
Lorenzo Sclocco

Outstanding New Instructor
Frank Suarez-Milan

Excellence in Online Teaching
Soonae Bac

Career Impact
Nadine Atwi

For more information on the UofT SCS Excellence in Teaching Awards please visit our awards page. 

This morning, SCS Dean, Dr. Catherine Chandler-Chrichlow, shared her perspective on applying EDI in the workplace at the Toronto North Local Immigration Partnership live event “Mainstreaming EDI in the Workplace: Challenges & Successes."

Dr. Chandler-Crichlow spoke to the importance of addressing approaches for creating inclusive work environments for newcomer jobseekers in the Toronto region, particularly in this post-pandemic era. “This strategic conversation is especially critical at this time. Employers across all sectors are determining new norms and practices in their workforce development and management coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic, as it has impacted the business operations of many companies,” she said. “I would argue however, that the impact of the pandemic on the human side of organizations is one that requires deep and intentional consideration of EDI practices as we build new norms in the workplace.”

According to Dr. Chandler-Crichlow, newcomers experience some consistent challenges in areas such as understanding the labour market landscape, and identifying the unique skills, knowledge, competencies, and prerequisite work experience being sought by employers. They might also have a limited understanding of how their expertise, which was developed in a different country, maps onto the requirements of specific jobs in our region. In fact, Dr. Chandler-Crichlow noted that “it is tremendously unhelpful for employers to continue the rhetoric that newcomers do not have work experience in Canada ---- these individuals were approved to come to our country because of the skills, knowledge, and expertise that they bring, and I suggest that that is where conversation should begin.”

Dr. Chandler-Crichlow went on to explain that these factors can result in “information shortages” for newcomers; they would therefore be reliant on service providers to help them bridge the knowledge gap and establish careers in the region. “Newcomers would also benefit from access to mentors from different sectors to provide information pertaining to on-the-job realities in the workplace. The ability to participate in information sessions with employers from diverse industries would also provide insights into how their skills and experiences are needed in different sectors such as financial services, technology, and manufacturing,” she asserted. “The interesting thing is that these needs are similar to what I experienced decades ago as a newcomer. What is different today however, is the heightened acknowledgment that there is a need for an intentional approach to tackle and focus on EDI as it relates to newcomers.”

Importantly, Dr. Chandler Crichlow shared that there are a number of practices that can be adopted by employers to help newcomers integrate into the local workforce. 

Transparency

From an equity perspective, Dr. Chandler-Crichlow says employers should be more transparent on the specific capabilities being sought for key roles that they are recruiting for in their organizations. This can begin with the job postings that are listed on their sites or other portals. Information of this nature would be invaluable to service providers whose focus is on preparing newcomers for recruiting in the region --- especially in this difficult post-pandemic era in which some sectors have been negatively impacted.

Cultural Considerations

Dr. Chandler-Crichlow says that from a diversity perspective, there needs to be a recognition that some newcomers come from cultural backgrounds in which it is thought to be offensive to speak about their strengths and successes. In fact, in some cultures, this sharing of one’s capabilities is deemed to be boastful and unacceptable. “Our recruiting environment is built on individuals not only knowing their strengths and capabilities, but also on sharing them through storytelling and highlighting their capabilities relevant to the role,” she explained. “Some people could be highly skilled and experienced but have low confidence, and be reticent about sharing their narratives in the interview process. It is incumbent on all groups working on preparing newcomers for recruiting to also include modules in areas such as confidence building.”

Inclusion in Career Management 

When newcomers are recruited into companies, Dr. Chandler-Crichlow stressed that measures need to be taken to provide the career management skills to help them with advancing their careers in the organizations. “This could be focused on inclusion that helps newcomers to build an understanding of the cultural norms of our organizations, and to build a career within an organization,” she shared. In addition, Dr. Chandler Crichlow noted that individuals from under-served communities, including BIPOC communities, women, and related intersectionalities, have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic, so a special emphasis on these groups would be beneficial as well.   

“From an EDI perspective, much can be achieved from employers and service providers working in partnership to address the long-standing challenges that newcomers face in building careers and being integrated into the local workforce,” she concluded. “If we don’t take an intentional and transparent approach to tackling these issues and implementing solutions to newcomer integration now, then when?”

The School of Continuing Studies (SCS), in partnership with U of T Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) professor Olivier Trescases, has collaborated with Porsche Cars Canada to develop micro courses in electric vehicles (EVs) for the approximately 300 dealer staff across the country, including senior management.

The EV sector is experiencing strong growth: in 2021, zero emission vehicles (ZEVs) — accounted for more than 5% of new vehicle registrations in Canada for the first time. The recent Canadian federal budget calls for EVs to account for 60% of cars sold in 2030 and 100% by 2035. Companies such as Porsche have front-row seats to the escalation in driver interest. 

“Customers are now coming into their showroom with sophisticated questions,” says Prof. Trescases. “When a customer asks you, ‘Why don't I get the full power fast-charging when the ambient is five degrees?’ — well, you need a certain level of expertise to answer that.”

Porsche Cars Canada turned to SCS and Prof. Trescases—who is the Director of the University of Toronto Electric Vehicle Research Centre—to develop a training program that would help Canadian dealership staff get up to speed, and develop deeper knowledge about EVs. “We’re proud to partner with Porsche Cars Canada in providing this highly tailored, leading-edge training,” says SCS Dean Dr. Catherine Chandler-Crichlow. “Learning and innovation are at the heart of SCS, and we are excited to help prepare Porsche Centre staff to meet the challenges and opportunities in electro-mobility.”

The new course consists of two levels: primary and expert, both run independently through SCS. They aim to establish competency in foundational electrical concepts and then focus on the core EV technologies: the charging and battery systems, powertrain, motor, the electrical grid, second-life application of batteries, as well as more forward-looking innovations such as vehicle-to-grid and wireless charging. 

“We are looking forward to our collaboration with Porsche Cars Canada at this pivotal moment for the automotive industry,” says Christopher Yip, Dean of U of T Engineering. “The adoption of electric vehicles is one important step in lowering our carbon footprint, and Porsche’s industry leadership together with U of T research expertise will model a path forward for EVs in the transportation sector — not only to support government emission targets and increasing consumer demand, but ultimately to secure a sustainable future.”

Dr. Chandler-Crichlow agrees. “Investing in your people results in a clear return. At SCS, we are passionate about helping organizations achieve their distinct training goals. Our programs are data-driven, and can help fill the skills and knowledge gaps that employers and teams are facing,” she says. “In collaboration with U of T partners and learning design professionals, we’ve designed training solutions that enable organizations such as Porsche Cars Canada to confidently build the human capacity and meet the challenges of a changing economy.”

With the help of an impressive jury of writing and publishing professionals, the School of Continuing Studies has selected this year’s winners of the Marina Nemat Award for Creative Writing. 

Thanks in part to the generosity of author and Creative Writing Certificate Graduate, Marina Nemat, the School of Continuing Studies has offered this award to the most promising Creative Writing Certificate student(s) each year. Previously, up to two awards were given each year to the most outstanding Final Project of a Creative Writing Certificate student. 

This year the award has been expanded to include winners in four categories: Creative Writing in Spanish; Non-Fiction; Children’s/YA; and Multi-Genre (Fiction and Poetry). 

The winners are: 

Creative Writing in Spanish

Non-Fiction

Children’s/YA

Multi-Genre (Fiction and Poetry)

Thanks in part to the generosity of author and Creative Writing Certificate Graduate, Marina Nemat, the School of Continuing Studies offers this award to the most promising Creative Writing Certificate student(s) each year. Previously, up to two awards were given each year to the most outstanding Final Project of a Creative Writing Certificate student. 

We are excited to share that due to the remarkable growth the Creative Writing program has seen, this year the award has been expanded to include nominees in four categories: Creative Writing in Spanish; Non-Fiction, Children’s/YA; and Multi-Genre. 

Four winners will be selected by an esteemed panel of Canadian publishing industry professionals and will receive $1000 each. 

This year’s nominees include: 

Creative Writing in Spanish

Non-Fiction

Children’s/YA

Multi-Genre (Fiction and Poetry)

Congratulations to all of our nominees on their hard work and talent. 

For more information about our Creative Writing program, please visit our program information page: https://learn.utoronto.ca/programs-courses/creative-writing. 
 

After two years of strictly online learning, the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies (SCS) is preparing to head back to class, in person. 

While we have long offered a selection of hybrid or fully online courses and certificates, when the pandemic hit, our staff and instructors worked quickly to adapt as many of our in-class courses as possible to an online format in order to minimize disruption to our learners, and most importantly, to do our part to keep our community safe.

Two years later, with mandated protections being lifted at the University of Toronto and throughout the rest of the province, we are excited to begin to reintroduce in-class options for our learners. 

“I’m so proud of the wonderful progress and improvements we have made to our already impressive roster of online learning options and of our dedicated instructors and learners who made the switch to fully online classes with us as we worked together to keep each other safe,” says SCS Dean Dr. Catherine Chandler-Crichlow.

“That said, we know that some learners and instructors do prefer an in-class experience, and some subjects lend themselves very well to an in-class environment. We want to continue to offer learners an experience that is as tailored to their needs as possible. I’m thrilled that we’ll be able to provide stellar in-person learning alongside our online offerings once again.”

Over 70 SCS course sections will be offered in-class in a broad range of subjects from Creative Writing to Business classes for the spring/summer term. 

We will continue to follow the University’s lead in terms of health and safety regulations around COVID-19. U of T will be pausing the following measures effective May 1, 2022:

• The requirement to complete health screening via UCheck prior to attending University premises
• The requirement to be fully vaccinated for in-person activities on University premises
• The requirement to be masked in indoor University spaces, unless otherwise required

However, learners should be aware that masking indoors is still encouraged by the university and that some or all of these requirements may be reinstated on short notice should public health conditions or guidance change. 

Should SCS need to cancel in-person classes, we will give learners the option of transferring to an online section of their course where possible, or receiving a full refund for their tuition. 

For more information about the University’s policies and updates related to COVID-19, please visit the UTogether information page: https://www.utoronto.ca/utogether

We know that most New years resolutions are abandoned by the end of February. But if you’re determined to pursue a goal from the list below in 2022, committing to an SCS course could be the key to staying motivated and accountable. And if resolutions aren’t your thing, it’s still great to explore new opportunities! Check out how lifelong learning at SCS can help you bust through blocks, embrace new possibilities, and meet your goals.

1. Learn a language

Whether you’re starting from scratch and looking to master the basics of a new language, or you’re ready to take your skills to the next level, our expert language instructors are ready to help you open a whole new world of communication. You can find information about our language courses here.

2. Become a better leader

If your aspirations for 2022 include transitioning to a management position, or simply becoming a more effective leader, our management and leadership courses can help you identify and develop the skills and characteristics of a successful leader. 

3. Start (or finish) your novel

If this is the year you’re determined to finally get your brilliant idea down on paper, connect with the supportive instructors and community of writers in our creative writing courses to help you find the perfect words to bring your story to life. 

4. Grow your Marketing skills 

As the world and technology have rapidly evolved over the past decade, so have effective marketing strategies and techniques. If it’s time for you to update your skills and learn new strategies, our dedicated marketing, communications and pr instructors can help you thrive in today’s competitive landscape. 

5. Brush up on your knowledge of history

If your knowledge of history is starting to feel ancient, let our passionate and knowledgeable instructors refresh your memory or introduce you to fascinating parts of history you’ve never explored. 

6. Formalize your project management skills 

Whether you are new to project management or simply want to improve and bolster your existing skills with a certificate or designation, now is the time to check out our suite of project management courses and certificates. 

7. Pass the CFA 

If you’re determined to achieve your Chartered Financial Analyst designation but overwhelmed at the thought of the exams that stand between you and the CFA, this is the year to take advantage of instructor Michael Hlinka’s expertise, and prepare for whichever level you’re aiming for with our Passing the CFA test preparation courses. 

8. Launch your product or service 

The dream of successful entrepreneurship could be closer than you think! Whether you’ve already launched your start-up, or you’re getting ready to unveil a brand new product, our entrepreneurship courses and workshops can support you as you establish, grow, and maintain a sustainable business.

9. Become more mindful 

If your goal this year is to seek more discipline, tolerance, calmness, and mental clarity, the courses and certificates in our mindfulness program can help. 

10. Bring out the best in your team

Organizations with strong learning cultures support their team’s growth and are more likely to see gains in areas that positively impact their business. This year, invest in your team and unleash their full potential with the help of our corporate and organizational training program. 

If you’re still establishing your goals for 2022, or not quite sure where to begin, don’t forget to sign up for the SCS Knowledge Hub to gain access to free educational content and webinars and get inspired to take the next step in your lifelong learning journey!

Whether it helps to fast-track a career, discover new skills and passions or simply keeps the mind active and healthy, there is no doubt that education can be life-changing. 

It can also, unfortunately, be difficult for people to access when faced with financial difficulties. 

That’s why the School of Continuing Studies is committed to finding opportunities to help connect learners with the funds they need to gain access to expert instructors and up-to-date, beneficial, and inspiring courses. 
Here are six ways learners can fund their studies at SCS:

1. Apply for a Bursary
2. Canada Training Benefit 
3. OSAP
4. Windmill Microlending
5. Scale AI 
6. Follow us on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn) to enter our series of draws for a free course once per term.