Matter of Course: Documenting Canada
A real place for authentic voices, multiple perspectives and meaningful communication
Canadian Studies CAST-WMST-MDST-2601H: Documenting Canada
Dr. Mark Dickinson
Encouraged to do far more than take note of the contemporary world around them, students of Trent’s Documenting Canada course are empowered to cultivate their own voices within it. As students discover through exploration of documentaries and various media, there is so much to discuss.
Keeping that strong connection
“I want them to arrive at that personal connection,” reflects Dr. Mark Dickinson, assistant professor of Canadian Studies at Trent University.
Due to the pandemic, Prof. Dickinson connected creatively to his students each week via online mini films featuring himself. Through them, he challenged students to let their voices speak true in their work.
“I think Trent is unique in that there is space for the cultivation of individual voice,” states the professor and filmmaker. “I always tell my students when you write something for me, I want you to recognize yourself in the words on the page or video diary entries.”
Thoughtful reflection
Each week students review and reflect on documentaries that focus on topics including the politics of Indigeneity, climate change, addiction and more. Many of the films feature strong feminist direction. This year, students met online with Alison Reid, director of The Woman Who Loves Giraffes.
Students also create mind maps to explore the films’ powerful themes. Prof. Dickinson describes the visual work as “first-hand nerve ending response to the course material.”
Projects also enable students to process their own experiences. To reflect their pandemic journeys, students produced works ranging from emotional films to amusing children’s books.
Meaningful work brings student voices to the table at a crucial time
Prof. Dickinson states, “Only a conversation that allows a multiplicity of perspectives can grasp the full complexity of an issue.”
This spring, the Trent School for the Study of Canada entrusted students to create a statement on systemic racism. A virtual round table dialogue about race and community among students led to the poignant statement on The Trent School for the Study of Canada Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/SSCTrentUniversity
The big picture
Prof. Dickinson feels that today’s tech and media-savvy students have much to offer, especially in this age of remote learning. He believes their technical expertise combined with academic know-how is a powerful resource.
Learn more about Documenting Canada by exploring Canadian Studies and Gender & Women’s Studies at Trent.