A collaborative learning space that combines in-person experience with educational technology
At Canvas Café, the name says it all: it's not just about knowledge and learning. Here, cups of coffee and cookies become tools to foster an environment conducive to collaboration, bringing you a complete experience, while ambient music, barely perceptible, caresses the senses and creates an informal space ideal for concentration and creativity.
Through this dynamic, the structure of an educational model that goes beyond traditional classrooms is discussed, where participants not only acquire knowledge, but also share their ideas and practices from their experience with the Canvas platform. Some of the topics that are usually addressed in this session are: how to assign assignments, generating quizzes, how to link the evidence with eLumen, among others.
At least a hundred professors from various schools - Engineering, Business, Humanities, Social Sciences and Government, as well as LiFE - have participated in this unprecedented academic experience. Their enthusiasm and commitment to teaching have been palpable, creating an environment of collaboration and mutual learning.
Canvas Café has been carried out 5 times and well received by teachers. Some of the comments received at the end of these sessions.
At the end of the experience, we asked participants for feedback and they expressed their enthusiasm for being part of an interdisciplinary group.
At the end of the experience, the teachers expressed their enthusiasm for this initiative, appreciating the opportunity to learn about and share different practices with their colleagues from different schools, enriching their learning experience.
They valued the opportunity to learn about practices and perspectives from colleagues from other schools, which enriched their learning experience. They also appreciated the in-person spaces, especially in a context where online courses abound. Some mentioned that, with so many virtual options, they sometimes feel a little lost. However, this course provided them with a tangible and meaningful experience. There was genuine interest in more in-person courses or workshops, and some suggested extending the schedules, even offering options in the afternoons.
As the trend is increasingly digital, training and face-to-face training remain key to developing skills and knowledge:
In experiential learning, direct interaction with instructors and peers allows concepts to be applied in real-life situations. Personal contact facilitates communication and allows for instant resolution of questions. Participating in face-to-face sessions demonstrates commitment and reinforces a sense of responsibility. In addition, face-to-face interactions create lasting connections and foster mutual support. Practice in face-to-face environments contributes to better knowledge retention, while classroom energy drives creativity. Active methodologies, such as participatory dynamics, enrich the learning process, and the relationships built can become a valuable professional network.
In conclusion, face-to-face training remains an essential pillar for personal and professional growth, perfectly complementing the advantages offered by digital technology. Spaces such as Canvas Café strengthen this combination, providing an environment where collaborative learning and direct interaction are enhanced by technological innovation, creating a comprehensive experience that boosts both knowledge and professional relationships.
