MELDing student success in Muskoka
The first Mobile Experiential Leadership Development (MELD) camp was a huge success with 16 high school students having a fantastic time learning how to use technology to improve their academic success.
The two-week residential camp was held at Nipissing’s Muskoka Campus, July 3 – 16.
MELD was established as a partnership between Nipissing University and Trillium Lakelands District School Board (TLDSB) after Nipissing’s Joanne Kmiec and Stephen Tedesco first approached the school board in January to discuss a mutually beneficial partnership.
The camp ran each day from 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. Students received a credit for Grade 11 Leadership and Peer Support, as well as a UNIV1011 University Success credit, should they chose to attend Nipissing for their post-secondary studies. Some of the curriculum covered included: academic writing, stress management, emotional intelligence, and decision-making. The camp included rigorous academic assignments and culminated in a comprehensive three-hour exam. Instruction at the camp was provided by Nipissing’s Kmiec, Tedesco and Luke Durrer, with Marianne Auger from the school board.
Students participating in MELD received an iPad to keep at the end of the program. They learned how to use iPad technology as a tool to improve their academic success. Students used Apps such as iCite, Evernote and Simple Minds, to take notes, do research, and complete assignments. Students were also shown how to use the iPad to foster strong time management skills, particularly in the post-secondary environment.
MELD students were also treated to several guest speakers, including:
Jeff Suddaby, host of Who’s coming for dinner) and Bev Suddaby (Registered Dietician); who spoke about how to prepare quick, healthy and budget conscious meals
Dr. Sal Renshaw and Renee Valiquette, speaking on gender, media and leadership
Jamie Tripp, speaking on leadership in adversity and Katimavik
Dr. Lesley Lovett-Doust, speaking on academic leadership
Dr. Lorraine Carter and Rick Carter, speaking on academic writing and using drama to enhance communication skills
Rebecca Eyers, speaking on inclusive language
The camp balanced academic instruction with several off campus events for the students. Participants enjoyed a three-day expedition to Wendigo Lake in South River where everyone had the opportunity to participate in canoeing, high ropes, zip lines and more. Students also led a “community day” where they visited a local nursing home and provided technology instruction and activities for residents. Finally, students were treated to a couple of decompression activities in the days leading up to their final exam, including an evening of paintball and a Santa’s Village boat cruise.
MELD participants and instructors stayed in the brand new Muskoka campus residence and used the residence’s large common room as its main classroom.
“It was a fantastic experience for the students,” said Kmiec. “Each night, as students wrapped up the day’s learning, at least one student would be overheard saying something like, ‘This experience is incredible! I wish all school was like this!’ The comment was always met with cheers throughout the class, and many students have asked if the program will expand next year to include more courses. Looking ahead, the MELD planning team is already scheduled to meet to discuss next year. Everyone on the team is thrilled with the results from this year and is looking to expand the program in the future.”