Chasse honoured as first recipient of IEA recognition
By Jensen, Randy on July 20, 2020.
Greg Bobinec
Lethbridge Herald
The Accommodated Learning Centre at the University of Lethbridge has announced the first recipient of its new Inclusive Education Award.
Callista Chasse, an instructor in the Faculty of Health Science’s Addictions Counselling program, has been recognized for the exemplary practices she uses to enrich learning experiences for students with disabilities.
“Callista was nominated by her students as she has demonstrated engagement and practices that are actively supportive and inclusive in her teaching and we are delighted to recognize her commitment with this award,” says Dawn Vickers, manager of the U of L’s Accommodated Learning Centre, in a news release.
Those who nominated Chasse say she creates a very inclusive teaching environment and is adamant about using person-first language, among many other positive teaching traits.
“I am honoured and moved to be the recipient of this important award from the Accommodated Learning Centre recognizing the value of inclusive teaching,” says Chasse. “I had the good fortune of being taught and mentored by some outstandingly inclusive faculty during my own post-secondary journey and I work hard to integrate similar practices as an educator.”
Chasse finds students feel more empowered to engage in deeper learning when they are seen as valued members of the learning community and are invited to contribute their own ways of knowing and understanding the world in a way that allows for critical thought.
“In my experience, inclusive practices in the classroom are good for all students, not only those who identify as needing accommodations,” says Chasse. “With this belief guiding my teaching, I employ various modes of content delivery, flexible and diverse assignment formats, and attempt to provide a respectful, caring and safe environment for students to engage.”
The Inclusive Education Award was created to acknowledge professors and instructors who recognize the value of diversity and are responsive, adaptable and collaborative in accommodating learning needs for more opportunities to have a positive and successful post-secondary learning experience.
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