Catalogue

A modules-based approach to learning research skills that emphasizes the reflective nature of information discovery, the contextual basis for evaluating that information, and a recognition that information has value.

Conferencing tools are a technology that allows educators to engage with their students in real-time.

This open resource has been created for KPU educators (and educators everywhere) to explore best practices for using conferencing tools for teaching and learning.

The strategies provided within this PressBook are adaptable and may be used with any conferencing tool in educational contexts. Each chapter contains critical considerations for using conferencing tools to support pedagogy and provides an overview infographic for the key takeaways. 

Additionally, there are Activity “recipes” that can be used in various spaces, including, Zoom, BigBlueButton, and Microsoft Teams.

Designed specifically for Kwantlen Polytechnic University students, this Pressbook offers interactive activities and strategies for developing academic writing skills. Learners have the opportunity to review key parts of the writing process from interpreting their assignment instructions, organizing their ideas, drafting their writing, and revising their work.

This resource was created for BUSI 1215 students at Kwantlen Polytechnic University. This resource explores what teams are, why they matter, and how to work together in teams. Launching a team project, building team leadership, and overcoming challenges are all addressed. This Pressbook is intended for both instructors to use in their teaching and for learners looking to sharpen their teamwork skills.

Are you interested in the topic of people learning and development or are tasked to implement learning and training opportunities in your workplace? We invite you to use this resource full of information and tools to help support people and organizations in their learning journey.

Learning happens everywhere, and you will explore the different modes of learning on and off the job. But is a training program actually the right solution to address a performance issue in your organization? Learn how to conduct a needs analysis to help you decide what is in the best interest of the organization and people. Training and learning opportunities have to be properly designed to be effective and deliver the results you expect. Find out how adults learn and what motivates them to develop their skills. Discover how learning supports the performance management process and how to ensure that learning gets transferred into the workplace.

The ultimate goal of training and development is to increase productivity, employee engagement, and to make a positive impact on the organization’s bottom line. So, evaluating training and development programs is critical to determine the company’s return on investment (ROI). You will find all of this and more in this resource to help you invest in and reap the benefits of talent development in your company.  Remember, this is an interactive resource. We invite you to answer the questions at the end of each chapter to test your knowledge.

Paul Tyndall teaches courses in literature and film in the Department of English at Kwantlen Polytechnic University in Surrey, B.C. He also serves on the advisory board for Mise-en-Scene: The Journal of Film and Visual Narration. Paul introduces the critical commentary surrounding Marilynne Robinson’s award winning novel Housekeeping, considered one of the most brilliant debut novels in contemporary fiction.

Red Seal Landscape Horticulturist Identify Plants and Plant Requirements is an adaptation of KPU HORT 1155 Introduction to Plant Materials Lecture Notes. It is an editable, open access learning resource with interactive web based experiences customized for horticulture students studying plant identification.

This first edition supports student achievement of the Level 1 and 2 learning goals for Red Seal Landscape Horticulturist Line F2:

• Identify plant and plant requirements for a range of plants commonly used in horticulture
• Employ correct naming and plant identification terminology
• Identify morphological characteristics, growing requirements, use and availability
• Use a dichotomous key for plant identification
• Explain plant hardiness
• Identify weedy and invasive plants

Learning to Learn Online prepares you for success in your online journey by introducing you to the unique features of the online learning environment, and providing tools for understanding yourself and your role as a self-directed learner.  The first part of the book focuses on three key questions:

1. Who am I as an online learner?
2. Who am I on my online learning journey with?
3. Who are my instructors? What is their role?

The second part of the book introduces you to effective strategies and tools for online learning: time management strategies, professional communication, analyzing online assignments, and strategic reading.

Welcome to your online learning journey!

Welcome to university! Whether this is your first time in post-secondary education, or whether you are returning to studies, you’re arriving with some goals you want to achieve. Perhaps you are taking a focused program to lead you into your desired career.  Perhaps you are exploring courses in different areas, providing a foundation for future specialization.  Wherever you are in your journey, you find yourself in a learning environment that is different from one you have experienced before.

A good foundation for university is learning how to learn.  By taking the time to read this book and work through the exercises included, you are investing in the skills that will support you in all of your classes and future learning.  Successful students share a set of skills and habits in common.  The good news is that these skills are not a secret; anyone can learn the skills that support successful learning. By taking some time to learn proven study strategies, you will be able to reach your learning goals, and avoid the pitfalls that can take you off-track.

Who is this book for?

This book focuses on the skills you’ll need to be successful in undergraduate courses or other adult education classes. If you are:

• new to university studies
• returning to university after some time away
• a mature student
• an international student
• or a continuing student who wants to improve their current skills and strategies

this book is meant to support you in your journey.