Anna Corrigal-Flaminio was first drawn to the Active Learning Classroom (ALC) after seeing Miranda Black’s mural and immediately recognized its potential for her graduate criminology class.
The ALC’s design, with movable chairs and natural elements, created a flexible, culturally responsive environment where students could engage in Indigenous teaching methods like talking circles and smudging. Unlike traditional classrooms, the space fostered a sense of grounding and comfort, encouraging meaningful discussions.
Anna has seen first-hand how the space helped to deepen student engagement, particularly in discussions on Anishinaabe laws, settler responsibilities, and relationships to the land. Students felt welcome in the space, and encouraged to take on difficult subjects. The mural itself became a teaching tool, prompting students to reflect on their connections to place and responsibility.
About TMU’s Active Learning Classroom
Located in Kerr Hall West 57, the ALC supports student learning by providing a space for instructors to explore and experiment with active learning pedagogy. The space is flexible and includes a variety of design features to encourage participatory learning in a welcoming environment. Join the Teachnet mailing list to be notified when the call for applications opens for each semester.