An Interview with Centennial College Teacher Michelle Fazioli
Introduce yourself and the courses you teach. What, in your opinion, is the best thing about being a teacher at Centennial College?
My name is Michelle Fazioli. I teach French and English. The best thing about teaching at Centennial College is the diversity of our community. Every semester, our teachers, team members and students work collaboratively to address new challenges. As a result, I am pushed to move beyond what I know, be creative and innovative
What differentiates the college from other colleges/CEGEPs in Quebec in terms of the approach and the educational frameworks that we use at Centennial?
Our teaching environment is shaped to meet the needs of all students. Teachers use Universal Design for Learning (UDL) as a framework to improve teaching and learning for all students. The success of each student is our priority. During their time here at Centennial, student’s progress is monitored from beginning to end. In addition to academics, students are taught the necessary skills and learning behaviors to help them succeed in university.
Describe a typical classroom experience or a typical day at Centennial College?
The class begins with specific learning objectives so that students are aware of what they need to know before the end of that particular class. As well, the schedule of learning activities is posted so that expectations are clear. Content is delivered in a variety of ways. For example: visual, hands-on, real-life and student-centered activities. This increases student engagement and motivation. At the end of class, we review learning goals, as well as formally assess students to check for understanding.
What is C-Space and what are the advantages of having this in college?
C-space is an opportunity for students to preview, review and practice course content. This time also gives students an opportunity to ask individual questions to their teacher. As well, students learn to plan, organize, and manage their school work. They develop the skills and study habits necessary for succeeding in Cegep.
What is the culture like at Centennial College?
The culture at Centennial College is inclusive. There is a community-like feeling because we all take the time to get to know one another, including our strengths and challenges. In addition to learning that prioritizes autonomy and engagement, we create a safe environment where students feel understood and respected.
Tell me about one of your favorite teaching memories/story?
My favorite part of teaching is to witness students step out of their comfort zone. Often, students struggle with speaking a second, or in some cases, a third language. They are shy or afraid to make mistakes in front of their peers. To address this challenge, we host a French Slam Poetry Workshop every semester. This type of learning activity provides students with the opportunity to acquire verbal skills in a more engaging, relevant and innovative way. One student in particular, whose French was his third language, created an entire rhyme, and read it out loud. Yes, there were grammatical errors, but that feeling of accomplishment set the tone for the rest of the semester.