Excerpts adapted from:  A Model Space For Learning

A Recipe For Successful Collaboration

The new program space at the Centre Branch YMCA is much less a classroom, and much more an engaging, collaborative, technology-rich environment that’s drawn rave reviews from facilitators and participants alike.

The idea that FPSYIP and CIC have created much more than a program room for participants was on full display during  a recent site visit by Dan Trepanier, National Program Manager, and  User Adoption, Wiki Platform Manager,  John Zeus.

London: A Space To Remember

Imagine a room with an impossibly high ceiling, filled with furnishings, artwork and amenities so far removed from a traditional classroom environment that program participants often don’t want to leave the room. That’s the secret behind the converted space used by FPSYIP, CIC and other programs, courtesy of this unique collaborative effort. The new space incorporates technology that includes a smart board, internet-enabled computer, a projector with pull-down screen, a large-screen flat panel TV and a Wii gaming console, with furnishings that range from oversized beanbag futons to an inclusive square of tables and chairs for a dynamic face-to-face presentation environment. One thing is for certain: the FPSYIP space within the downtown London YMCA makes an immediate, yet lasting, impression.

Full video podcast

“One intern summed it up nicely. He said, ‘There’s a reason that we quit school, and we want to go into any space is something OTHER than a classroom.’ This space fosters and enhances the different learning styles of the participants. You can really keep their attention, even at 2:30 in the afternoon.” – Dan Trepanier

“It’s very comfortable. Like home. It doesn’t feel like a classroom. A facilitator can get very creative delivering an essential skills program in a workshop room like this.” – John Zeus

Read more: Internship Success