Lakehead University - Orillia

Lakehead University offers a diverse range of learning opportunities that allow students to broaden their knowledge and skills. From international learning programs to community placements, students can explore various avenues of learning during their time at the university. These programs also provide valuable hands-on experience in different locations and working environments. One of the unique learning opportunities at Lakehead is the option to participate in international teaching placements. This allows students to teach, learn, and work in attractive locations around the world through collaborations with international partners. The university currently offers five overseas placement destinations, including Malaysia, Sint Maarten, London, Scotland, and Wales, for a 5-week placement. It's worth noting that in the past, members of the Faculty of Education also had the chance to work in China and the United Kingdom as international teaching assistants. While these collaborations are currently inactive, they may be available in the future. Another way for students to gain practical experience is through community placements. These placements allow students to apply their theoretical classroom knowledge in real-world situations related to history. To successfully complete a community placement, students are required to fulfill 150 community service hours, attend career seminars, and complete other relevant assignments. Community placement, fieldwork, and internships are often used interchangeably to describe the practical work students undertake to supplement their theoretical studies. At Lakehead University, these experiences fall under the category of community placement and involve collaborating with a partner organization to gain valuable learning opportunities under the guidance of a supervisor. To be considered for a community placement, students must complete an application form provided by the Department of History. This application is also shared with the community placement partner, who selects the most suitable candidate for the placement. In recent years, students have had the opportunity to work with a variety of community partners, including the City of Thunder Bay Archives, Lakehead University Archives, ShebaFilms, Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame, Thunder Bay Military Museum, Thunder Bay Historical Museum Society, and Thunder Bay Public Library. These partnerships provide a range of practical experiences related to history and heritage-related fields that enhance students' academic knowledge.