Real-World Learning

The Upper Canada District School Board is committed to Real-World Learning, an approach that connects classroom knowledge to real-world situations and experiences. It aims to help students develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and practical skills that can be applied beyond the classroom. Real-World Learning involves activities, project-based learning and community partnerships.

Real-World Learning is also a goal within the Director's Work Plan, which engages students, staff, and community in Real-World Learning and enhanced pathways.

The Real-World Learning Podcast

The Real-World Learning podcast highlights conversations that tell stories about learning in the UCDSB. Our projects direct the attention and intention of student learning to the world and the world towards our students as they work to solve challenges that matter to them.

The projects have our students reading, writing and using math/science and tech while making the community the classroom.

Most Recent Episode:

Previous Episodes:

Real-World Learning Initiatives:

Provide system leadership, school leadership, teacher and student professional development on a process for creating Real-World Learning.
Launch UCDSB Grows, an initiative which will focus schools on growing food and addressing food insecurity both in schools and in our local communities, by partnering with and supporting local food banks, expanding school growing opportunities, integrating SHSM learning, and through the use of agricultural technology and other partnerships.
Implement a Grade 7-12 continuum for Technology and Trades throughout the district.
Create new partnerships with the community, including Habitat for Humanity, local businesses, and delivery agents to enhance apprenticeship pathways, create Real-World Learning opportunities, and further expand SHSM and Dual Credit learning through a Trading Up program.
Expand UCDSB participation in skills competitions.
Pilot Enhanced Core French learning through use of Real-World Learning.

Measurement / Success Factors:

Number of staff receiving Professional Development.
Number of in-house certificates in Real-World Learning granted.
Number of schools, classes and students involved in Real-World Learning projects.
Track the number of community partnerships that emerge through Real-World Learning.
Keep track of, and report back on, soft and hard technology purchases.