Learning in Community: UM's Public Classroom Initiative

The Office of Equity Transformation’s Listening, Learning, Leading series helps our UM community move beyond polarization by building foundations for increased understanding and dialogue. The Public Classroom Initiative is an extension of that series, designed to foster informed dialogue and deepen understanding of contemporary issues relevant to the UM community.

Recognizing the depth of expertise across UM and the growing interest in timely, complex topics, the Public Classroom Initiative provides short, accessible learning opportunities open to all members of the university community.

Held around lunchtime in the Fireside Lounge (first floor, UMSU University Centre), each session features a UM expert delivering a concise 20-minute presentation followed by a 10-minute question and answer period.

“When we learn together, explore new areas of knowledge, welcome complexity, and expand our understanding of issues shaping our current moment, we create the conditions for informed and engaged conversation,” says Tina Chen, Vice-Provost (Equity). “By placing learning in public spaces and in short presentations, the Public Classroom Initiative removes barriers to accessing teaching and research expertise at UM. We hope to see staff, students, and faculty from a range of units, lived identities, and positions attending and joining broader dialogues at UM.”