Many of our students combine their studies of the humanities with studies in other faculties and can be found participating in clubs and events across the university. Daniel Joshua MacLean is one such student.
Currently in the fourth year of the Concurrent BA (Honours)/ BEd (Intermediate/Senior) program, where he is studying French and History, Daniel Joshua also volunteers with the Reading Support Program in the Faculty of Education.
Daniel Joshua is planning to spend next year on exchange in France to hone his language skills, and then to go on to graduate school.
Joshua Daniel MacLean (centre) shared his experiences as a humanities student at Fall Preview Day in November.
I first learned of the Reading Support Program when my instructor for a Teacher Education course that I am currently enrolled in, Professor Christina Garchinski, presented the volunteer opportunity to our class.
The Reading Support Program represents a partnership between the Brock University Learning Lab in the Faculty of Education and the Niagara Catholic District School Board (NCDSB).
Currently, students at Denis Morris and Holy Cross Secondary Schools are taking part in the program and improving their literacy skills by working with senior undergraduate and graduate student tutors specializing in Education.
They are employing research-based teaching techniques in order to facilitate the development of their tutee’s reading and writing skills. By working at each student’s own pace and by tailoring instruction to each student’s needs and interests, students are engaged in the lessons and are experiencing academic growth.
Being a graduate of the Niagara Catholic District School Board (NCDSB), I realized that the program would be a great opportunity to reintegrate myself into the NCDSB community, gain valuable teaching experience and to aid young students in improving their literacy skills and in discovering the joys of reading and learning.
It took some time to adjust to my new role, but by being open to professional growth I have been able to very much enjoy the time that I have spent volunteering within the program. It is truly rewarding to be able to facilitate the academic growth of young students and to help them learn to enjoy reading as a pastime.
The program is truly remarkable so if you or anyone you know is interested in volunteering with the Reading Support Program email bllab@brocku.ca or call ext. 3548.
