Experiential Learning

91ºÚÁÏÍø’s mandatory Community Engaged Learning (GPHL 303) and Experiential Learning (GPHL 401) courses provide students with the opportunity to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world settings. Through these courses, students will contribute to an organization’s mandate while addressing a global health challenge of interest. Students will also develop essential skills as future global health practitioners or researchers. Experiential learning opportunities are available at the provincial, national and international levels.

The Department of Global and Public Health works closely with students to identify funding sources for experiential learning. While the language of instruction is English, some practicum placements in Québec require a working knowledge of French. Placement sites outside of Québec are generally conducted in English.

Objectives

• Develop interpersonal, professional and communication skills
• Build core competencies in Population and Global Health
• Apply undergraduate-level teachings in practical settings
• Expand networks for mentorship and job searches

Community-Engaged Learning/Experiential Learning Courses (GPHL 303 and GPHL 401)

91ºÚÁÏÍø’s Bachelor of Arts in Population and Global Health (B.A. in PGH)Ìýstudents are required to complete two practicum placements, both in the winter semester (January – April). Students finish the first two years of studies with an introductory understanding of the fundamentals of global health practice.

Would your organization be interested in offering experiential learning opportunities? Please fill out the Experiential Learning Placement Offer Submission FormÌý(Form pending) or, for more information, contact us (studentaffairsofficer.dgph [at] mcgill.ca (Enoch Leung, Student Affairs Officer))Ìýand we will follow up with you.

GPHL 303 - Community Engaged Learning (3 credits)

In GPHL 303, students are introduced to community-engaged learning with a focus on the broader determinants of health. This course blends in-person lectures and seminars with practical experience at a community-based organization. Students will work in small groups (2-3 members) and commit three hours per week for eight weeks (24 hours total) to their placements.

Support & Preparation: Students will receive support from the course instructor, faculty members and the Student Affairs Officer. Pre-placement training, a mid-term reflection discussion and a learning plan developed with the partner organization and faculty supervisor ensure that students' goals align with the experience.

Evaluation

The course is graded based on a combination of participation, written reflections, presentations and a final report.

Should you have any questions about Community Engaged Learning, contact studentaffairsofficer.dgph [at] mcgill.ca or visit our FAQ.

GPHL 401 - Experiential Learning (12 credits)

GPHL 401 is the capstone experiential learning course of the BA in Population and Global Health. Students engage in a full-semester, immersive project focused on a population or global health-related issue. These placements consist of a full-time, 455 hours (35 hours per week for 13 weeks) experiential learning placement with a local or international organization. Students develop and apply their skills in professional conduct, teamwork, communication and knowledge translation in a real-world context.

Learning Outcomes: By the end of the course, students will:

• Demonstrate core population and global health competencies in diverse and reciprocal community partnerships
• Utilize project management and multi-modal communication skills
• Understand the mandates and operational structures of global and local health organizations
• Critically assess and reflect on the impact and operations of their host organization

Structure and Supervision: Students are expected to dedicate 35 hours per week for 13 weeks to their placement, which is to be completed during the winter semester. Each student is supported by a designated community supervisor and a faculty supervisor who provide mentorship, monitor progress and contribute to the student’s final evaluation.

Placement Options: Eligible experiential learning projects must address a population or global health issue, broadly defined as an effort to promote equity in health across transnational or local contexts. Project types include community-engaged learning projects (e.g., program development, evaluation, policy development, knowledge translation) and can be in collaboration with organizations such as the World Health Organization, Public Health Agency of Canada or local health departments.

Students may propose their own project placements, subject to program approval. Students must speak with the studentaffairsofficer.dgph [at] mcgill.ca (Student Affairs Officer) to approve projects found independently.

Evaluation

The course consists of multiple deliverables developed in consultation with academic and community partners:

Capstone Experience: The course concludes with a student showcase, where students present their work and key learnings from the semester to peers, faculty and invited guests.

For further questions, contact studentaffairsofficer.dgph [at] mcgill.ca (Enoch Leung, Student Affairs Officer.)

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