unique, hands-on learning offered through new centre

阿根廷vs墨西哥竞猜 's department of lifelong learning and fort william historical park have come to an agreement that will take the experiential approach to learning one step further. the university and the fort have jumped on board a global movement by creating the tallships adventure learning centre (talc).

the talc facility, located on-site at the fort william historical park and operated by the department of lifelong learning, includes an indoor challenge course program designed to build skills in collaborative learning, communication, leadership, problem solving, character-building and general wellness. the various challenges are based on the theme of a tallship.

"talc is a fantastic learning opportunity for the university, fort william historical park and the community," says dr. tom puk, chair of lakehead's department of lifelong learning in the faculty of education. "people of all ages in all disciplines can benefit from the multidisciplinary skills developed at this centre."

fort william historical park general manager sergio buonocore says that the initiative is an excellent example of the fort's new direction. "this agreement demonstrates how we are looking for opportunities to strengthen community partnerships and diversify offerings," says buonocore. "it is an exciting new venture," he says.

"this contract signed between the fort and the university marks a historic undertaking," puk says. "this is an off-campus university learning site which is designed for more than the university student. any group or individual can take advantage of this centre - from community organizations, businesses, and schools, to elite sports teams - we can cater to a broad range of needs with custom-built programs."

the various stations and challenges have been designed by dr.puk and currently both lifelong learning and fort personnel are working on setting up the facility. "we should be ready to go by july" says sergio buonocore.

groups would be presented with different challenges at various levels of difficulty to complete -- including a children's section -- while working outside the usual comfort zones. these situations break down barriers and promote interpersonal communications, understanding, and trust-building in an adventurous, fun-filled environment. talc provides for stimulating experiences that encourage people to visualize for creative solutions.

talc is planned to open in early july 2004. contact the department of lifelong learning at 343-8891 for enrolment information.