Harnessing Global Perspectives In Education: A Conversation With Rebecca Fitzgerald
By Anju Kakkar, MBA, IMBB™
At Humber Press, we often spotlight individuals who redefine the landscape of global education and partnerships. In this exclusive feature, we delve into the inspiring journey and thoughts of Rebecca Fitzgerald, the Associate Dean of Global Education and Partnerships at Humber Polytechnic.
Rebecca's initiation into global education began with an impromptu decision to study abroad, which she credits for transforming her from a shy individual to someone brimming with confidence and perspective. This experience was pivotal, leading her to volunteer at the international office of her alma mater, where she first dipped her toes into the rich waters of global education. Her story is a testament to the profound impact that stepping out of one's comfort zone can have on personal and professional growth.
“It all started by just taking a chance.”
—Rebecca Fitzgerald, Associate Dean, Global Education and Partnerships
A Path Shaped by Curiosity
Rebecca's journey into global education began unexpectedly, sparked by a simple poster for a study abroad program during her undergraduate days. Describing herself as shy and introverted, Rebecca took a leap that would define her entire career path. This experience abroad was not just about travel but about transformation—gaining confidence, new perspectives, and starting a lifelong commitment to international education.
Rebecca emphasizes that research isn't just a formal process of gathering information but a mindset of inquisitiveness and understanding different perspectives. Her career has been a testament to the belief that being research-minded adds significant value to educational partnerships and global education initiatives.
Innovative Learning through COIL
One of Rebecca's passions is the Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) initiative, which has transformed global education by allowing students from around the world to collaborate on projects without leaving their home countries. COIL epitomizes the innovative spirit of Humber, breaking down financial and logistical barriers to global education.
Rebecca is particularly enthusiastic about the COIL program at Humber, which leverages modern technology to forge academic partnerships across the globe without the need for physical travel. This initiative is a cornerstone of Humber's strategy to integrate global perspectives directly into the classroom, offering students and faculty a platform to engage in rich, cross-cultural collaborations.
Empowering Students with Real-World Platforms
Rebecca is keen on integrating students' COIL projects into more formal platforms like academic journals or Humber's publications. This integration enhances their learning experience and adds to their professional profiles, enabling them to showcase their work globally.
“Let's make that happen for an online community. And I really look forward to collaborating with you.”
—Rebecca Fitzgerald, Associate Dean, Global Education And Partnerships
Fostering Teamwork and Community
In discussing her role and the shifting dynamics within her team, Rebecca highlighted the importance of building connections and nurturing a sense of belonging and community among team members. This approach is particularly vital in times of change, such as those prompted by the global pandemic, which has reshaped educational and professional environments worldwide.
“At this time, within my team, we're really focused on building our connections, centring ourselves on what we love.”
—Rebecca Fitzgerald, Associate Dean, Global Education And Partnerships
Challenges and Opportunities Post-Pandemic
The pandemic has presented challenges and opportunities in academia, prompting a re-evaluation of educational methods and the necessity for adaptability in teaching and learning. Rebecca sees these challenges as chances to innovate and prepare students for a rapidly changing world, emphasizing skills like critical thinking, teamwork, and adaptability.
“We need to change, we need to adapt, our students are looking for flexibility, personalization, and ways in which education can cater to where they are right now in their lifelong learning journey.”
—Rebecca Fitzgerald, Associate Dean, Global Education And Partnerships
Rebecca shared insights on the shifting landscape of global education in response to the pandemic. She highlighted the accelerated adoption of technology in education, which has opened new avenues for connectivity and collaboration. She also pointed out the ongoing need for adaptability and flexibility in academic programs to meet the evolving demands of students and the global job market.
Concluding her interview, Rebecca offered words of encouragement to students, urging them to embrace every opportunity for learning and growth. She emphasized the importance of adaptability, a critical skill in today's ever-changing world. Her closing message was a poignant reminder of the support systems available at Humber, designed to help students navigate their educational journeys and prepare for future challenges. Rebecca encouraged students to seize every opportunity for growth and reassured them of the extensive support available at Humber Polytechnic. Her message is clear: embrace challenges, engage with diverse perspectives, and always strive to expand your horizons.