Trish Manns, Deb Froese, Karin Werther and Andrea Ruelling are among the instructors who are receiving teaching awards.
(Edmonton) On March 18, 2016, the University of Alberta's Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine and the Rehabilitation Medicine Students Association (RMSA) will be honouring a handful of instructors and students with the Teaching Awards and RMSA Awards for their academic contributions, dedication and support this past year.
"Congratulations to all the winners this year. They work tirelessly and bring innovation and passion to their teaching. They are movers and shakers in our faculty," says Liz Taylor, associate dean of professional programs and teaching at the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine.
The RMSA gala will be held at the Meridian Banquet Hall (4820 76 Ave) from 5 to 10 p.m. To purchase tickets, please visit the Eventbrite website here. Password is RMSAGALA.
Faculty Teaching Award
Patricia (Trish) Manns from the Department of Physical Therapy will receive the Faculty Teaching Award at the 2016 RMSA Gala. Manns has made significant contributions towards student learning including teaching the clinical neurology course and supervising two PhD students. Her desire to incorporate innovative ways of teaching and integrating research into her classes demonstrate the dedication she has for her students.
Sessional Teaching Award
Supervisor and mentor, Melissa Skoczylas from the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders is the recipient of the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine Sessional Teaching Award for her commitment in shaping future speech-language pathologists. Students have praised Skoczylas for her knowledge, support and passion in the field of speech-language pathology.
Michelle Barnes from the Department of Physical Therapy is also the recipient of the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine Sessional Teaching Award. Barnes is part of the team leading the physical therapy bridging program where she coordinates mentors for the internationally trained physical therapists and provides support in clinical education. She continually shares her clinical experiences with students to enhance their understanding of patients.
Graduate Student Teaching Assistant Award
Teaching assistant, Breanna Dewaal from the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders is the recipient of the Graduate Student Teaching Assistant Award. Dewaal was described as an exceptional teaching assistant in a course taught by Carol Boliek, professor in speech-language pathology (SLP). She demonstrates great enthusiasm, professionalism and support working with the students.
Clinical Teaching Award
Calgary satellite campus clinical instructor, Debra Froese, is the recipient of the Clinical Teaching Award. She provides mentorship for students to help guide them to future success as physical therapists. Her deep understanding and knowledge of mental health has greatly contributed to the redevelopment of various areas of occupational therapy. Froese also recognizes the importance of using innovative technology to enhance student learning.
RMSA Excellence in Teaching Awards
Patricia Manns from the Department of Physical Therapy is recognized for her approachability and ability to teach students how to translate knowledge into a clinical setting. Manns is able to enhance students' knowledge of neurology in unconventional ways that further engage and challenge the students.
Karin Werther from the Department of Occupational Therapy is receiving an RMSA Excellence in Teaching Award for her ability to provide a hands-on learning experience for students. Werther recognized the need for students to put knowledge into practice, and created an environment where students can practice with a client. Werther is also involved in collaborating with other departments, creating a broader learner experience.
Andrea Ruelling from the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders is receiving this award for going above and beyond to assist students in the challenging speech-language pathology program. Ruelling uses her humour and knowledge to ease students in difficult scenarios, and provides resources for students to excel. Ruelling is praised for her ability to listen, kindness and sincerity.
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The Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine at the University of Alberta
As the only free-standing faculty of rehabilitation medicine in North America, the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine's vision is to be at the forefront of knowledge generation and scholarship in rehabilitation. Through excellent teaching, research and service to the community, the Faculty is committed to enhancing quality of life, promoting participation and autonomy, and improving function for citizens in Alberta and beyond.
A research leader in musculoskeletal health, spinal cord injuries, common spinal disorders (back pain), seniors and dementia and speech-language disorders, the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine aims to inspire the realization of the full potential of individuals, families and communities. The three departments, Occupational Therapy (OT), Physical Therapy (PT) and Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) offer professional entry programs. The Faculty offers thesis-based MSc and PhD programs in Rehabilitation Science, attracting students from a variety of disciplines including OT, PT, SLP, psychology, physical education, medicine and engineering.